Kobe Bryant engineered a second-half comeback, helping the Los Angeles beat the New York Knicks 100-94 on Tuesday and extend the Lakers' winning streak to five games while lifting them to .500.
Bryant scored 34 points in his NBA-record 15th Christmas Day game and Metta World Peace added 20 points and seven rebounds while defending Carmelo Anthony, whose 34 points led the Knicks. Bryant, the league's leading scorer, has topped 30 or more points in nine straight games.
The Lakers improved to 14-14 — 9-9 under new coach Mike D'Antoni — and upped their holiday record to 21-18, including 13-9 at home.
The Knicks controlled most of the game behind Anthony and J.R. Smith, who had 24 points. But they struggled offensively in the fourth, when Anthony was limited to seven points and Smith had five.
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At a star-studded game, the sighting of a reconciled Chris Brown and Rhianna courtside stole the limelight.
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The couple has been increasingly open about their relationship after their controversial reunion.
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New York Knicks' J.R. Smith (R) scores over Los Angeles Lakers' Kobe Bryant.
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Chris Brown (R) and Rihanna leave the court at half time after sitting together courtside.
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New York Knicks' Carmelo Anthony (R) dribbles the ball as Los Angeles Lakers' Metta World Peace.
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New York Knicks Carmelo Anthony (R) reacts after he was called for a foul.
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Los Angeles Lakers head coach Mike D'Antoni (L) stands with Kobe Bryant (C) and Steve Nash (R).
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New York Knicks' Carmelo Anthony (L) and Los Angeles Lakers Kobe Bryant (R) embrace before their NBA basketball game.
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New York Knicks' Carmelo Anthony (C) gets called for an offensive foul.
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New York Knicks' Carmelo Anthony (L) drives past Los Angeles Lakers' Metta World Peace.
Photo: REUTERS
