The Family: Versus
10 March 2009
The Lakers are seven games ahead of their closest competition in the conference, but as unstoppable as they may seem, recent losses to Phoenix, Denver and Portland show they still have some work to do before they face the Spurs Thursday.
L.A. has had a phenomenal season. Coming off a devastating Finals loss to Boston last season, the reigning MVP Kobe Bryant and February's Player of the Month Pau Gasol are leading their team to 50W-13L, the best record in the league. Recently they've suffered some unexpected losses to teams that aren't as seasoned or deep, casting a shadow over their seemingly guaranteed spot in the Finals. With Kobe's 28 point average, Gasol's 18.4 points a game and the best bench in the game, they're fighting to keep fewer losses than Boston and stay miles ahead of the competition.
Since 1999, The Spurs have been a constant figure at the top of their division, winning six titles and 4 league championships in 10 years. As their veteran center continues to dominate on offense and defense while Tony Parker averages 21 points and 6.7 rebounds, they remain a threat to the Lakers success. But after a rocky start to the season due to injuries, and with the league's reigning Sixth Man of the Year Manu Ginobili out, can the 42-20 Spurs close the gap on L.A.?
How much longer can L.A. keep the San Antonio at bay? Thursday night, the two teams collide for the Western conference.
It gets wild in the west starting Thursday at 8:00pm.
NBA Regular Season
Tuesday, March 10
Memphis vs. L.A. Lakers @ 10:30pm ET
Wednesday, March 11
Houston vs. Utah vs. 9:00pm ET
Thursday, March 12
L.A. Lakers vs. San Antonio @ 8:00pm ET
Friday, March 13
Cleveland vs. Boston @ 8:00pm ET
Saturday, March 14
Detroit vs. Atlanta @ 7:00pm ET
Sunday, March 15
Orlando vs. Boston @ 1:00pm ET
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