Dwight Howard Beat LeBron James Again (Image: Zuma Press)

Despite being only able to play 28 minutes due to foul trouble, Howard dominated the action with 24 points, nine rebounds and two assists. At the line, Orlando’s bigman was able to hit 14-of-19 free throws. Rafer Alston poured in 18 points, while Mickael Pietrus had 16 points.

For Cleveland, you wouldn’t need many guesses to figure out who led the way. LeBron James scored 41 points, dished nine assists, grabbed seven rebounds and collected two steals. Although his stats look good, LeBron only hit 11-of-28 shots from the field, including 1-of-8 from beyond the three-point line.

LeBron also didn’t get much help. Mo Williams scored 15 points on 5-for-16 shooting and the only other player in double figures was Delonte West with 12.

Game 4 is obviously going to be a gigantic game. The contest, which is to be played in Orlando on Tuesday, will determine whether the Cavs can climb back into the series or whether the Magic can continue their dominance over the Cavs.

Post from: EveryJoe

Dwight Howard Beats LeBron, Magic Up 2-1

Kobe Bryant on his way to the Finals? (Image: Newscom)

Down by eight points entering the fourth quarter, the Lakers played championship level basketball down the stretch to get the win. Kobe Bryant hit a number of big shots, Pau Gasol was a beat on the low block and Trevor Ariza got another late game steal. For the Nuggets, they limped to the finish line — committing dumb fouls and making mental mistakes along the way.

Kobe Bryant led the way for Los Angeles with 41 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals. He hit 12-of-24 shots from the field, 2-for-5 from beyond the three-point line and 15-for-17 at the line. Pau Gasol had 20 points and 11 rebounds, while Trevor Ariza scored 16 points, pulled down four rebounds and swiped two steals.

For the Nuggets, Carmelo Anthony led the way with 21 points — but only three of those points came in the second half. Chauncey Billups had 18 points, seven assists and six rebounds but missed ten of his 15 shots from the field.

Game 4 will be played on Monday. If the Lakers take that contest, the series will be all but over.

Post from: EveryJoe

Lakers Take Game 3, Lead 2-1 over Nuggets