The Lebron vs. Kobe duel

I have to admit it was an impressive display by both Kobe Byrant and Lebron James the other night in L.A. With an injured-laden squad the Cavs were making the most out of a bad situation. Without two key pieces to their lineup, Cleveland hung with the Lakers for most of the game. Unfortunately, the 105-88 outcome went in the Lakers' favor. The contest got away in the closing minutes of the 4th quarter as Byrant nailed a couple high-degree difficulty shots which couldn't be defended as better. Lebron James had his own as usual putting together a 24 point performance. He also collected 9 rebounds with 4 assists.

Having the upper hand in this particular matchup, Kobe showed why he's one of the top players in the NBA and just how potent the Lakers are at home. He delivered 20 points and 12 assists in the victory. With the win they escalated their record to 32-8. Only losing 3 games at home L.A. is the team to beat in the West. Paul Gasol and Lamar Odom are co-existing well and give the team so much depth and versatility. Plus they have a few good jump-shooters who can get hot and take pressure off Kobe at times. I'd like to see the Cavs and Lakers have a few epic battles later in the year. Lebron must be saving up one of the best performances for such an occasion.

By the numbers Kobe and Lebron are near identical as far as scoring is concerned: both averaging about 27 ppg. They have a keen sense too for knowing where teammates are on the court and getting them involved. Seeing those clutch shots by Kobe kind of gives him a slight edge in hitting those shots during crunch time. Yet that's where experience goes into play. Trust me King James will be right there as well as he gets more games under his belt. Fans can't expect him to waver in closing moments during big games. Plus taking into consideration the hard shots and bruises he takes makes him a strong player with great will power. Another duel in store may unveil Lebron and Kobe shooting lights out in a overtime thriller!