Lakers winning with D

The Lakers took a 28-21 lead at the end of the first quarter, which is significant because during the Mavericks five-game winning streak, they averaged 110.2 points a game.

What a difference a quality opponent makes.

When Kobe Bryant was asked earlier in the day about the Lakers adjusting with Pau Gasol sidelined with a sprained ankle, he said: "Ultimately we win games on the defensive end."

And that's what they are doing. The Mavericks made only 33.3 percent of their shots in the first quarter. Doesn't look they will be getting to that 110 mark tonight.

-- Jan Hubbard