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The Los Angeles Lakers lost a starting center who accounts for nearly 20 points a game, then lost their edge despite Kobe Bryant’s best efforts.

Chris Paul had 27 points and 17 assists to help the New Orleans Hornets beat the Lakers 108-98 Friday night in what could prove to be a costly game for both teams.

Paul hobbled to the finish after hurting his left ankle on a failed drive to the hoop with 2:31 to go. Lakers center Pau Gasol and David West, however, did not make it to the final horn.

Gasol sprained his left ankle while stepping on Vladimir Radmanovic’s foot in the first quarter and needed help getting to the locker room. He was on crutches after the game, saying he didn’t want to put any weight on it in hopes of keeping the swelling down.

“It swelled up pretty good. We’ll know more tomorrow,” Gasol said. “We’re going to make sure there’s no damage to the ligaments, at least not too bad. I hate sitting out … I want to be back as soon as I can.”

West had 12 points and 14 rebounds for New Orleans, but limped off the floor with just under seven minutes remaining, twisting his right ankle while playing through a left ankle sprain that kept him out for three games last week.


Paul has 27 points and 17 assists, leads Hornets over Lakers, 108-98 - NBA - Yahoo! Sports

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FireVenturi

What a game!!!! I was lucky enough to attend.