Lakers Push Past Problems Against Houston

The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Houston Rockets 105-100, improving to 31-6. The Lakers had a rough time containing the Rockets in the first half, surrendering a shooting percentage above 60%. Houston finished shooting 53%, while LA shot 50.6%. The Lakers committed only 7 turnovers, and outscored Houston 27-18 in the fourth quarter. Houston was without Ron Artest and Tracy McGrady, but other players picked up the slack. Yao Ming had 19 points with 17 rebounds, and Von Wafer scored 23 points, shooting 13-for-18, including 3-pointers. Carl Landry came off the bench and scored 21 points for the Rockets, a season-high. Kobe Bryant led the Lakers with 33 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists, despite shooting 13-for-32 with 1 3-pointer. Lamar Odom returned, replacing Sasha Vujacic who did not travel to Texas due to back spasms. Odom had 10 points and 1 blocked shot off the bench. Vladimir Radmanovic scored 12 points and snagged 6 rebounds, and hit both of his 3-point attempts. Trevor Ariza came off the bench to score 14 points.