LOS ANGELES (Ticker) -- Two clubs from Los Angeles clash for
bragging rights and playoff spots when the Lakers host the
Clippers on Tuesday.
Winners of their last two games, the Lakers have a percentage
points lead over the Denver Nuggets for the eighth and final
playoff spot in the Western Conference. The Clippers, who have
lost their last two games and three of four, are five games
behind their intracity rivals.
All five starters scored in double figures as the Lakers posted
a 103-94 victory over the Indiana Pacers at the Staples Center
on Sunday. All-Star Kobe Bryant shot 12-of-24 from the floor
and converted all 13 free throws en route to 37 points. He also
grabbed 10 rebounds.
Chris Mihm recorded 14 points and 10 rebounds and Lamar Odom
collected 13 points, nine rebounds and seven assists in the
triumph.
The Clippers' rally from 13 points down with just over two
minutes to play fell short in a 105-102 home loss against
Memphis on Monday. Corey Maggette, who was one point shy of his
career best with 37 points, missed a potential game-tying
3-pointer as time expired.
Bobby Simmons scored 19 points and Elton Brand added 17 in the
loss.
The Lakers won the first two meetings with the Clippers this
season before suffering a 105-89 loss on January 26.