25 Dec 2009 Cleveland Cavaliers @ Los Angeles Lakers

25 Dec 2009 Cleveland Cavaliers @ Los Angeles Lakers


Cleveland Cavaliers 102
Los Angeles Lakers 77

All of King’s men dominated the defending NBA Champions at their staples and ended by being the winners of the Christmas day Marquee battle between the present and future NBA superstars. The game itself was marred by booing and bad behavior on the part of the fans in the stands. After the game’s otucome was well decided, Lakers fans started throwing giveaway foam hands on to the court, indicating their displeasure on the performance of their team.

But nothing must be taken away in the way in which Cavaliers dominated the defending champs and made them look mortals. Cavs were playing their fourth game in this current road trip, but looked to have more energy, as they dominated the paint, which is normally a staple for the lengthy Lakers frontcourt.

Lakers started off strong but when Ilgauskas came into the game, to play alongside O’Neal, Lakers front court disappeared. The two big 7 footers completely neutralized Gasol and Bynum’s length and they changed a number of shots in the paint. As a result, the Lakers shot a paltry 36.5% from the field. Varejao provided the spark in the second quarter, and Mo Williams ensured that there will be no slippage.

Lakers were also frustrated with no-calls on their end. Bryant, Fisher, Odom were called for Technical fouls and Odom was tossed out when he got his second technical arguing with Varejao. The game got a little testy at times and was very physical. Phil Jackson was clearly unhappy with the officiating, although he declined to pinpoint the issue.

Lakers were lead by Bryant who had 35 points. Pau Gasol had a sub-par game with 11 points and 6 rebounds. Meanwhile Cavs were lead by Mo Williams who had 28 points. LeBron had 26 points and 9 rebounds and battled all day with the physical Ron Artest. Ron Artest fouled out of the game.

Note: One of the fan throw a water bottle on to the floor and was escorted out by the security. Cavs ended the Lakers 11 game home winning streak. Cavs Bench outscored the Lakers bench, 31-17.


Box Score
Courtesy NBA.com