Lakers beat the Raptors

This was a tough win.The Lakers beat the Raptors 115-107 yesterday behind 36 points and 9 boards from Kobe Bryant. Bryant hit a tough jump shot late in the 4th quarter to give the Lakers the lead. Pau Gasol kicked in another monstrous performance with 31 points and 15 rebounds. The Lakers bench only provided 21 points. All 5 Raptors starters scored in double figures led by Joey Graham with 24. Joey Graham?? Yes, Joey Graham who averages less than 8 PPG had a career night with 24 points. Jermaine O'Neal contributed 22 points and 9 blocks.

The Lakers last two games have both been difficult wins since the injury to Andrew Bynum. The Lakers are relying too much on Kobe to pick up the scoring burden with the loss of Bynum. Lamar Odom needs to become more aggressive on the offensive end and increase his rebounding output. The Lakers need Odom to average a double double to help out Kobe and Gasol. L.A.'s bench needs to regain their lost form from just a week ago. The bench was providing a scoring boost and needed energy for the Lakers. Since Odom has moved into the starting lineup the bench has lost a lot of its offensive firepower. The Lakers will need the bench to be productive if they hope to win their next game against the hated Celtics.

Next Game: Thursday night Lakers @ Celtics
This will be a tough one for the Lakers to win without Bynum. L.A. is 4-0 in their last four road games. The Celtics are on a 12 game winning streak and 24-2 at home. L.A. will need a huge game from Kobe, Gasol and Odom to win. The Lakers have a great shot to win this game even without Bynum. Kevin Garnett is returning for the first time in a week after his bout with the flu. L.A. should take advantage of the fact that Garnett should be limited in his first game back after his illness.