Lakers defeats Jazz in Game 1

Fresh off of a difficult opening round series against Oklahoma City, the L.A Lakers got off to a solid start in the Western Conference semifinals, taking Game 1 over the Utah Jazz behind a fourth quarter rally.

“It was tough,” remarked Kobe Bryant after the game. “But when it got really tough for me, I just checked myself in.”

On the night, Bryant had 31 points, 11 of which came in the games’ last four minutes, as he spearheaded a Laker comeback, ensuring that they would not lose home court advantage despite blowing a lead early in the fourth quarter.

Pau Gasol got in on the act as well, with 25 points to go along with 12 rebounds.  He was also a force on the defensive end of the court, tabbing five blocked shots.

It was Bryant however that put the Lakers on his back, per the usual.  With Utah up by four points, Bryant went on a 7-0 by himself to erase the lead and put L.A in front for good.

On the other side of the court, the Jazz were led by Daron Williams, who scored 24 points.  Utah has now lost 15 consecutive games against the Lakers on the road.

Carlos Boozer tabbed a double-double with 18 points and 12 rebounds, while C.J Miles contributed 16 points.  Miles made several big shots en route to Utah taking the lead, but failed to do so in the final minutes.