http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/-t1.htm Northwest, Pacific & Southwest Divisions. Sat, 04 Apr 2009 17:25:35 GMT 10 http://h1.ripway.com/patti1328/lakers2a.jpg http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/-t1.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/parker-leads-spurs-in-126-121-win-over-pacers-t310.htm Admin INDIANAPOLIS(AP) The San Antonio Spurs played their worst defensive quarter of the season in the final 12 minutes against the Indiana Pacers.Fortunately, for the Spurs, the Pacers played poor defense the entire game. Indiana scored 40 points and shot 70 percent in the fourth quarter, but the Spurs beat the Pacers 126-121 on Friday night.The Spurs were happy to win, but shocked by their late defensive collapse."I think I can count it on one hand the past five years how many teams have ... Western Conference News Sat, 04 Apr 2009 17:25:35 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/parker-leads-spurs-in-126-121-win-over-pacers-t310.htm#384 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/parker-leads-spurs-in-126-121-win-over-pacers-t310.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/conley-milicic-lead-grizzlies-over-pistons-89-84-t298.htm Admin AUBURN HILLS, Mich.(AP) Darko Milicic had played 56 times at the Palace of Auburn Hills without ever reaching double figures in points or rebounds before Sunday.In his 57th try, he finally showed a glimpse of why the Pistons drafted him ahead of Dwyane Wade, Carmelo Anthony and Chris Bosh.The No. 2 pick in the 2003 draft had 12 points and 11 rebounds to help the Memphis Grizzlies beat the Pistons 89-84."It's especially good to beat Detroit and in their house,'' Milicic said. "We've ... Western Conference News Mon, 16 Mar 2009 20:23:49 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/conley-milicic-lead-grizzlies-over-pistons-89-84-t298.htm#371 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/conley-milicic-lead-grizzlies-over-pistons-89-84-t298.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/jazz-beat-warriors-for-8th-straight-win-t287.htm Admin OAKLAND, Calif.(AP) The Utah Jazz's leading scorer in their eighth straight win didn't play in the fourth quarter. Their point guard counterbalanced his stellar playmaking with awful shooting, and their star power forward didn't do much at all.Yes, Utah's three-week winning streak might have been in serious jeopardy if the Golden State Warriors had been trying as hard as possible to end it.Mehmet Okur scored 23 points, Deron Williams had a season-high 20 assists and Utah beat the ... Western Conference News Mon, 02 Mar 2009 17:30:41 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/jazz-beat-warriors-for-8th-straight-win-t287.htm#358 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/jazz-beat-warriors-for-8th-straight-win-t287.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/kidd-nowitzki-lead-mavericks-over-raptors-t286.htm Admin DALLAS(AP) Jason Kidd has forged a reputation as one of the NBA's premier passers during his 14 seasons. The Dallas point guard has the numbers to prove it.Kidd handed out 15 assists to become the fourth player in NBA history with 10,000 for his career, Dirk Nowitzki added 24 points and 10 rebounds, and the Mavericks beat the Toronto Raptors 109-98 on Sunday night.Kidd reached the milestone with 1:04 left in the third quarter with his 13th assist of the night, passing to Brandon ... Western Conference News Mon, 02 Mar 2009 17:29:14 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/kidd-nowitzki-lead-mavericks-over-raptors-t286.htm#357 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/kidd-nowitzki-lead-mavericks-over-raptors-t286.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/roy-aldridge-score-26-each-in-portland-win-t285.htm Admin PORTLAND, Ore.(AP) Trail Blazers guard Steve Blake couldn't have put Portland's philosophy at this point of the season any more plainly."Got to get wins, you know?'' he said after the Blazers, bunched in the crowded middle of the Western Conference standings, routed the San Antonio Spurs 102-84 on Sunday night.Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge each scored 26 points for Portland, spoiling the return of Tim Duncan to the Spurs.The Spurs didn't even play Duncan in the fourth quarter ... Western Conference News Mon, 02 Mar 2009 17:27:26 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/roy-aldridge-score-26-each-in-portland-win-t285.htm#356 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/roy-aldridge-score-26-each-in-portland-win-t285.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/rockets-overpower-smaller-timberwolves-t283.htm Admin MINNEAPOLIS(AP) Without "Big Al'' in the middle of their lineup, the Minnesota Timberwolves simply are not measuring up these days, especially when Yao Ming and the Houston Rockets come to town.One night after blowing a 17-point lead in the final six minutes, Yao towered over the Timberwolves with 17 points, 11 rebounds and six blocks in Houston's 105-94 victory over Minnesota on Sunday."I walked past him and I'm at his waist,'' said Randy Foye, Minnesota's 6-foot-4 shooting ... Western Conference News Mon, 02 Mar 2009 17:24:27 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/rockets-overpower-smaller-timberwolves-t283.htm#354 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/rockets-overpower-smaller-timberwolves-t283.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/west-scores-32-hornets-beat-nets-99-96-t281.htm Admin EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J.(AP) The quick hands of Chris Paul helped the New Orleans Hornets steal a victory from the New Jersey Nets.David West scored 32 points and Paul made two key steals in the final minute in the Hornets' 99-96 win Sunday night."We made some extra-effort plays,'' West said. "We knew this was going to be a tough game for us, the way New Jersey had been playing. We wanted to come in here and try to steal one. Guys stepped up and made some big plays for us down ... Western Conference News Mon, 02 Mar 2009 17:21:27 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/west-scores-32-hornets-beat-nets-99-96-t281.htm#352 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/west-scores-32-hornets-beat-nets-99-96-t281.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/rockets-hold-down-lebron-rout-cavs-t277.htm Admin HOUSTON(AP) LeBron James missed shots, complained to the refs and went an entire game without an assist for the first time in his career.The Houston Rockets, meanwhile, showed they just might be contenders in the Western Conference with a 93-74 win over James and the Cleveland Cavaliers on Thursday night.Yao Ming scored 28 points and Ron Artest added 15 while harassing James on defense most of the night, leading the Rockets to their six consecutive win and ninth straight at home."It ... Western Conference News Fri, 27 Feb 2009 19:24:09 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/rockets-hold-down-lebron-rout-cavs-t277.htm#347 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/rockets-hold-down-lebron-rout-cavs-t277.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/blake-trail-blazers-top-clippers-116-87-t272.htm Admin PORTLAND, Ore.(AP) An injury-ravaged opponent and a team eager to run proved to be a record-setting combination for Portland's Steve Blake.Blake tied an NBA record for assists in one quarter when he handed out 14 during the first period in the Blazers' 116-87 win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday. San Antonio's John Lucas set the record of 14 assists during the second quarter against Denver on April 15, 1984."I took a peek and saw I was getting up there, so I was happy ... Western Conference News Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:31:22 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/blake-trail-blazers-top-clippers-116-87-t272.htm#341 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/blake-trail-blazers-top-clippers-116-87-t272.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/artest-s-26-points-lead-rockets-past-bobcats-99-78-t269.htm Admin HOUSTON(AP) The Houston Rockets know who they have - and won't have - for the rest of the season, so now they can finally focus only on winning games.Ron Artest scored 26 points, Yao Ming added 19 points and seven rebounds and the Rockets continued to win without Tracy McGrady, beating the Charlotte Bobcats 99-78 on Sunday.Luis Scola had 12 points and 10 rebounds and Shane Battier sank three 3-pointers for the Rockets, who've won four straight games and eight of the last nine McGrady ... Western Conference News Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:26:11 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/artest-s-26-points-lead-rockets-past-bobcats-99-78-t269.htm#338 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/artest-s-26-points-lead-rockets-past-bobcats-99-78-t269.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/suns-rout-clippers-140-100-t261.htm Admin PHOENIX(AP) The Phoenix Suns looked like a different team in interim coach Alvin Gentry's debut.Gentry tried to put the 140-100 rout of the hapless Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday night in perspective."I like our effort and I like what we did,'' Gentry said. "We're not ready to crown ourselves NBA champs yet, OK?''The Suns' big win came at the expense of a Clippers squad without center Marcus Camby, out with an inner ear infection. The Clippers also played most of the game without ... Western Conference News Wed, 18 Feb 2009 20:31:44 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/suns-rout-clippers-140-100-t261.htm#328 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/suns-rout-clippers-140-100-t261.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/kirilenko-returns-to-spark-jazz-over-grizzlies-t260.htm Admin SALT LAKE CITY(AP) Andrei Kirilenko was so exhausted he didn't know if he had the energy to celebrate his 28th birthday."I am so tired,'' Kirilenko said after a deep sigh. "But today is a triple joy. I came back from my injury, we win and I have a birthday.''Kirilenko returned from an ankle injury to spark a key fourth-quarter run and help the Utah Jazz beat the Memphis Grizzlies 117-99 Tuesday night. C.J. Miles scored 24 points and Deron Williams had 20 points and 15 assists."No ... Western Conference News Wed, 18 Feb 2009 20:30:19 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/kirilenko-returns-to-spark-jazz-over-grizzlies-t260.htm#327 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/kirilenko-returns-to-spark-jazz-over-grizzlies-t260.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/battier-yao-lead-rockets-past-nets-114-88-t259.htm Admin HOUSTON(AP) The Houston Rockets made it look easy against the New Jersey Nets on Tuesday night.Yao Ming had 20 points and 12 rebounds and Shane Battier scored a season-high 19 points in the Rockets' 114-88 rout.Von Wafer scored 19 points and Ron Artest added 18 for the Rockets, who outrebounded New Jersey 56-30 and set season highs in 3-point field goals (15) and assists (27) in their sixth straight win over the Nets."We had a great game passing the ball and our spacing was excellent,'' ... Western Conference News Wed, 18 Feb 2009 20:29:00 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/battier-yao-lead-rockets-past-nets-114-88-t259.htm#326 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/battier-yao-lead-rockets-past-nets-114-88-t259.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/paul-drives-for-game-winner-in-100-98-win-in-okc-t258.htm Admin OKLAHOMA CITY(AP) Chris Paul performed all kinds of amazing feats in launching his All-Star career in Oklahoma City. There was still something missing."I don't think I ever hit any game-winners here,'' Paul said.Time to check that off of his list.Returning again to the city where his NBA career got started, Paul drove the lane for a layup with 2.7 seconds left to lift the New Orleans Hornets to a 100-98 victory against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday night.Paul won the Rookie ... Western Conference News Wed, 18 Feb 2009 20:27:29 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/paul-drives-for-game-winner-in-100-98-win-in-okc-t258.htm#325 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/paul-drives-for-game-winner-in-100-98-win-in-okc-t258.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/warriors-105-suns-115-t249.htm Admin PHOENIX (AP) The Phoenix Suns were in a funk and awash in trade rumors. A victory over Golden State made them feel a little better, at least for now.Grant Hill scored a season-high 27 points and the Suns pulled away in the final 3 1/2 minutes Friday night to beat the Warriors 115-105."It's been a trying week, a trying couple of weeks,'' Hill said. "But I think it was important for us to come out and get a win despite all the speculation that's going on and all the negativity. ... Western Conference News Sat, 07 Feb 2009 16:52:44 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/warriors-105-suns-115-t249.htm#314 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/warriors-105-suns-115-t249.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/jazz-ruin-webber-s-jersey-retirement-with-win-t248.htm Admin SACRAMENTO, Calif.(AP) With 23 minutes between halves while the Sacramento Kings retired Chris Webber's jersey, Deron Williams and the Utah Jazz had plenty of time for resting, stretching and plotting a second-half surge.When the Kings surged back, Williams took charge in the final minute for a remarkable victory.Williams scored 34 points on a badly bruised thigh and hit the go-ahead layup with 20.2 seconds to play, leading the Jazz to a 111-107 victory over the Kings on Friday night.Williams' ... Western Conference News Sat, 07 Feb 2009 16:51:42 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/jazz-ruin-webber-s-jersey-retirement-with-win-t248.htm#313 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/jazz-ruin-webber-s-jersey-retirement-with-win-t248.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/randolph-leads-clippers-to-win-over-grizzlies-t247.htm Admin MEMPHIS, Tenn.(AP) The Los Angeles Clippers used the best 3-point shooting night in franchise history to end their seven-game losing streak.Zach Randolph had 35 points and 10 rebounds, while Ricky Davis added a season-high 24 points as the Clippers used 16 3-pointers to beat the Memphis Grizzlies 126-105 on Friday night."It was one of them nights,'' Randolph said of the shooting performance.Eric Gordon added 23 for the Clippers, who won for the first time on the road since ... Western Conference News Sat, 07 Feb 2009 16:50:39 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/randolph-leads-clippers-to-win-over-grizzlies-t247.htm#312 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/randolph-leads-clippers-to-win-over-grizzlies-t247.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/durant-outplays-oden-thunder-beat-portland-102-93-t246.htm Admin OKLAHOMA CITY(AP) Kevin Durant said his first pro matchup with Greg Oden didn't provide him with any extra inspiration.His performance spoke louder than his words.Durant, taken second after Oden in the 2007 draft, scored 31 points and outplayed Portland's center to help Oklahoma City Thunder beat the Trail Blazers 102-93 on Friday.Oklahoma City (12-38) never trailed and snapped a three-game losing streak. Portland, which had won four of its previous seven road games, fell to 0-4 in ... Western Conference News Sat, 07 Feb 2009 16:49:29 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/durant-outplays-oden-thunder-beat-portland-102-93-t246.htm#311 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/durant-outplays-oden-thunder-beat-portland-102-93-t246.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/denver-dunks-all-over-washington-in-124-103-win-t245.htm Admin WASHINGTON(AP) As the words spilled forth from Antawn Jamison, it was tough to tell what bothered him most about the 124-103 loss to the Denver Nuggets on Friday night that dropped his Washington Wizards to an NBA-worst 10-40.There was his teammates' general mind-set: "Honestly, I thought some of our guys were scared to play out there tonight.''There was the way the home fans reacted: "It's embarrassing when they're booing you and doing the wave and got to find a reason to ... Western Conference News Sat, 07 Feb 2009 16:48:18 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/denver-dunks-all-over-washington-in-124-103-win-t245.htm#310 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/denver-dunks-all-over-washington-in-124-103-win-t245.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/hornets-defeat-raptors-101-92-t244.htm Admin NEW ORLEANS(AP) The New Orleans Hornets figured out a way to win without All-Star guard Chris Paul, though the formula they used may not work every game.Peja Stojakovic scored a season-high 28 points and the Hornets tied a franchise record with 15 3-pointers, snapping their four-game losing streak with a 101-92 victory over the Toronto Raptors on Friday night."CP's out, we've got to have better ball movement and that's what we did, particularly in the fourth quarter,'' Stojakovic ... Western Conference News Sat, 07 Feb 2009 16:46:53 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/hornets-defeat-raptors-101-92-t244.htm#309 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/hornets-defeat-raptors-101-92-t244.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/spurs-beat-jazz-106-100-on-strong-fourth-quarter-t231.htm Admin SALT LAKE CITY(AP) Manu Ginobili saved San Antonio from the foul line, where the Spurs struggled the most.Ginobili made all eight of his foul shots in the fourth quarter, scoring 10 of his 13 points in the final period to help the Spurs hold off the Utah Jazz 106-100 on Tuesday night.Ginobili made 11 of 12 foul shots, saving the Spurs from an embarrassing night at the line and keeping the Jazz from rallying at the end."Until that horn goes off, you're worried about whatever may ... Western Conference News Wed, 28 Jan 2009 17:28:39 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/spurs-beat-jazz-106-100-on-strong-fourth-quarter-t231.htm#288 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/spurs-beat-jazz-106-100-on-strong-fourth-quarter-t231.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/billups-scores-29-to-lead-nuggets-over-grizzlies-t230.htm Admin MEMPHIS, Tenn.(AP) New Memphis coach Lionel Hollins can see he has his work cut out.Chauncey Billups scored 14 consecutive points in the third quarter and finished with 29 to lead the Denver Nuggets to a 100-85 victory Tuesday night, sending the Grizzlies to their 10th straight loss Hollins' debut as coach."I can't speak for anything before I got here,'' Hollins said. "But what it looks like to me is the guys aren't in good shape and, as soon as there is a little bit of ... Western Conference News Wed, 28 Jan 2009 17:27:33 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/billups-scores-29-to-lead-nuggets-over-grizzlies-t230.htm#287 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/billups-scores-29-to-lead-nuggets-over-grizzlies-t230.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/thunder-beat-warriors-on-buzzer-beater-t225.htm Admin OAKLAND, Calif.(AP) Jeff Green was confident he had more than enough time to get off a shot.Green scored 26 points, including a turnaround jumper from 16 feet at the buzzer to lift Oklahoma City to a 122-121 win over the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday night."Yeah I called it,'' Green said. "There was a lot of time left. I just had to stay with my shot, not rush it, and it went in. It feels great.''Green's shot lifted the Thunder to their third road win of the season ... Western Conference News Thu, 22 Jan 2009 17:23:51 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/thunder-beat-warriors-on-buzzer-beater-t225.htm#280 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/thunder-beat-warriors-on-buzzer-beater-t225.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/yao-alston-carry-rockets-past-jazz-108-99-t222.htm Admin HOUSTON(AP) No matter who's in the lineup, no matter when they meet during the season, the Houston Rockets always expect a tough game against the Utah Jazz.Yao Ming had 19 points and 12 rebounds, Rafer Alston scored 23 and the Rockets built a big lead, then hung on to beat the Jazz 108-99 on Wednesday night.Deron Williams had 32 points and 11 assists and Ronnie Brewer had 23 points for the Jazz, who've dropped seven of their past 10 road games. Andrei Kirilenko sat out for Utah ... Western Conference News Thu, 22 Jan 2009 17:20:18 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/yao-alston-carry-rockets-past-jazz-108-99-t222.htm#277 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/yao-alston-carry-rockets-past-jazz-108-99-t222.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/hornets-defeat-nets-102-92-t220.htm Admin NEW ORLEANS(AP) Another dominant performance by Chris Paul made the absence of two starters seem like only a minor inconvenience for the New Orleans Hornets.Paul narrowly missed his fifth triple-double of the season with 29 points, nine rebounds and eight assists, and New Orleans beat the New Jersey Nets 102-92 on Wednesday night."The little fella is something special,'' Hornets coach Byron Scott said of his 6-foot point guard.Vince Carter scored 20 points for New Jersey but ... Western Conference News Thu, 22 Jan 2009 17:18:08 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/hornets-defeat-nets-102-92-t220.htm#275 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/hornets-defeat-nets-102-92-t220.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/bell-okafor-lead-bobcats-past-grizzlies-101-86-t216.htm Admin CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) Larry Brown repeats his demands of constant ball movement, high-percentage shots and tough defense so often that it becomes a running joke anywhere the vagabond Hall of Fame coach goes.Raja Bell gave Brown the game he craves Wednesday night, helping the Charlotte Bobcats continue their impressive turnaround from an ugly start in Brown's first season in charge.Bell scored 25 points, but perhaps more importantly pestered Memphis' O.J. Mayo all game, limiting him ... Western Conference News Thu, 22 Jan 2009 17:11:33 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/bell-okafor-lead-bobcats-past-grizzlies-101-86-t216.htm#271 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/bell-okafor-lead-bobcats-past-grizzlies-101-86-t216.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/suns-hold-off-hawks-as-o-neal-scores-26-t209.htm Admin PHOENIX(AP) The Shaquille O'Neal of old is leading the new-look Phoenix Suns.O'Neal had 26 points and 10 rebounds, and the Suns won their third straight Tuesday night with a 107-102 victory over the Atlanta Hawks, who lost their fourth in a row.The Suns are 8-1 this season when O'Neal scores 20 or more points. This was his ninth 20-point game of the season, surpassing his total of eight all last season."Shaq is playing like the Shaq of old,'' Atlanta's Josh Smith said. "And ... Western Conference News Wed, 14 Jan 2009 15:17:55 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/suns-hold-off-hawks-as-o-neal-scores-26-t209.htm#260 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/suns-hold-off-hawks-as-o-neal-scores-26-t209.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/nuggets-overcome-dirk-s-44-win-on-billups-fts-t208.htm Admin DENVER(AP) The Denver Nuggets needed two big nights from role players and one veteran move from Chauncey Billups to hold off Dirk Nowitzki and the Dallas Mavericks.Billups drew a late foul on Jason Terry and made two free throws with 2.2 seconds left, and the Nuggets overcame 44 points from Nowitzki to beat the Mavericks 99-97 on Tuesday night.Billups scored 23 points and Nene had 20 to lead a balanced attack that helped Denver recover after blowing a 17-point lead.The Mavericks were ... Western Conference News Wed, 14 Jan 2009 15:16:41 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/nuggets-overcome-dirk-s-44-win-on-billups-fts-t208.htm#259 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/nuggets-overcome-dirk-s-44-win-on-billups-fts-t208.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/crawford-scores-32-in-warriors-wild-win-over-indy-t202.htm Admin OAKLAND, Calif.(AP) When Jamal Crawford squared to shoot his final 3-pointer, it was only appropriate that he had to get it over Danny Granger's desperately outstretched arm.The shooting stars' fourth-quarter scoring duel had turned an early-January game between two losing teams into an unlikely thriller, with both putting up 15 points in the final period with a succession of stunning shots - but Crawford's last basket loomed largest in a much-needed win for his Warriors.Crawford ... Western Conference News Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:56:34 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/crawford-scores-32-in-warriors-wild-win-over-indy-t202.htm#249 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/crawford-scores-32-in-warriors-wild-win-over-indy-t202.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/kings-beat-mavericks-for-first-win-of-2009-t201.htm Admin SACRAMENTO, Calif.(AP) The Sacramento Kings will take whatever bright spots they can find. Beating a short-handed Dallas team counts as one.Kevin Martin scored 21 points, Francisco Garcia had seven during a key fourth-quarter stretch, and the Kings ended their five-game losing streak with a 102-95 victory over the Mavericks on Sunday night."We know the state of this team right now and we realize we went through some injuries this year,'' Martin said. "Right now we're getting ... Western Conference News Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:55:24 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/kings-beat-mavericks-for-first-win-of-2009-t201.htm#248 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/kings-beat-mavericks-for-first-win-of-2009-t201.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/suns-hand-clippers-11th-straight-loss-109-103-t199.htm Admin LOS ANGELES(AP) The Phoenix Suns had a surprisingly hard time with the Los Angeles Clippers before Grant Hill went to work down the stretch and Shaquille O'Neal capped another perfect game at the free throw line.Hill scored six of his 21 points in the final 5:04 against the undermanned Clippers, and Amare Stoudemire overcame early foul trouble to score 26 points as the Suns sent Los Angeles to its 11th straight loss with a 109-103 victory on Sunday.O'Neal had 15 points and 10 rebounds, ... Western Conference News Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:53:04 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/suns-hand-clippers-11th-straight-loss-109-103-t199.htm#246 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/suns-hand-clippers-11th-straight-loss-109-103-t199.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/outlaw-s-fadeaway-lifts-blazers-past-pistons-t194.htm Admin PORTLAND, Ore.(AP) Trail Blazers coach Nate McMillan was direct and simple with seconds to go against the Detroit Pistons."Go to work,'' McMillan said, singling out Travis Outlaw during Portland's final timeout.Outlaw followed his coach's instructions, and hit a fadeaway jumper with 8.9 seconds left to give the Blazers an 84-83 victory over the Pistons on Wednesday night.The loss snapped Detroit's seven-game winning streak."It was there,'' Outlaw said.Portland, which trailed ... Western Conference News Thu, 08 Jan 2009 15:05:16 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/outlaw-s-fadeaway-lifts-blazers-past-pistons-t194.htm#237 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/outlaw-s-fadeaway-lifts-blazers-past-pistons-t194.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/millsap-jazz-beat-tired-hornets-t193.htm Admin SALT LAKE CITY(AP) After running slightly behind New Orleans in the first quarter, the Utah Jazz ran over the Hornets in the second and kept on going.The Jazz held the weary Hornets to two field goals in the second period during a 116-90 victory Wednesday night, pulling down more than twice as many rebounds and shutting down everybody except Chris Paul.Paul Millsap extended his NBA-leading streak of double-doubles to 19 games with 27 points and 14 rebounds as the Jazz easily won ... Western Conference News Thu, 08 Jan 2009 15:04:15 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/millsap-jazz-beat-tired-hornets-t193.htm#236 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/millsap-jazz-beat-tired-hornets-t193.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/nuggets-beat-heat-108-97-t192.htm Admin DENVER(AP) Nothing, not injuries and trades, can slow down the Denver Nuggets.Chauncey Billups, Linas Kleiza and J.R. Smith scored 21 points apiece to help the Nuggets win their fifth straight game, 108-97 over the Miami Heat on Wednesday night.Kenyon Martin and Nene scored 14 points each for Denver in the Nuggets' seventh victory in eight games. Denver played without scoring leader Carmelo Anthony, out at least three weeks after fracturing a finger on his right hand Monday.In his ... Western Conference News Thu, 08 Jan 2009 15:03:21 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/nuggets-beat-heat-108-97-t192.htm#235 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/nuggets-beat-heat-108-97-t192.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/foye-wolves-keep-rolling-over-thunder-t190.htm Admin MINNEAPOLIS(AP) Randy Foye and the Minnesota Timberwolves couldn't have looked much worse over the first two months of the season.So far in 2009, it would be hard for them to look much better.Foye matched his career high with 32 points in just three quarters and the Wolves won their fourth straight game, beating the Oklahoma City Thunder 129-87 on Wednesday night."It's just great to be talking about these wins,'' said Foye, who also had six assists in the second most lopsided ... Western Conference News Thu, 08 Jan 2009 15:01:12 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/foye-wolves-keep-rolling-over-thunder-t190.htm#233 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/foye-wolves-keep-rolling-over-thunder-t190.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/celtics-fall-at-home-89-85-to-rockets-t187.htm Admin BOSTON(AP) Now the Celtics are losing at home, too.The defending NBA champions dropped their sixth game in eight tries Wednesday night, falling to the Houston Rockets 89-85 on Von Wafer's go-ahead 3-pointer with 44 seconds left. It was the Celtics' first loss in Boston since a Nov. 14 defeat to Denver sent them on a 19-game winning streak."In our last timeout, you could see it in our guys' eyes. Like, 'Shoot, we're going to lose this home game,''' Celtics coach Doc Rivers said. ... Western Conference News Thu, 08 Jan 2009 14:57:42 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/celtics-fall-at-home-89-85-to-rockets-t187.htm#230 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/celtics-fall-at-home-89-85-to-rockets-t187.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/nowtizki-leads-mavericks-over-hurting-clippers-t180.htm Admin DALLAS(AP) Dirk Nowitzki made the game-saving plays on both ends of the court for the Dallas Mavericks.That was the easy part for the star forward. Just don't ask the frustrated Nowitzki to explain how the Mavericks even got into the position that his blocked shot and go-ahead jumper were needed in the final minute against the short-handed and hurting Los Angeles Clippers."Terrible. We had a good lead and we let up,'' Nowitzki said. "They got whatever they wanted offensively. ... Western Conference News Wed, 07 Jan 2009 14:01:37 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/nowtizki-leads-mavericks-over-hurting-clippers-t180.htm#222 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/nowtizki-leads-mavericks-over-hurting-clippers-t180.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/durant-green-lift-thunder-to-rare-win-over-knicks-t179.htm Admin OKLAHOMA CITY(AP) What appeared to be a lopsided victory turned into a nail-biter, but the Oklahoma City Thunder didn't complain.Wins have been rare this season for the Thunder, so they wanted to celebrate after holding off the New York Knicks 107-99 on Tuesday night - after nearly blowing a 23-point, second-half lead."We showed a lot of character,'' said Oklahoma City forward Kevin Durant, who had 27 points and 12 rebounds. "They came back and got within two but we continued ... Western Conference News Wed, 07 Jan 2009 14:00:36 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/durant-green-lift-thunder-to-rare-win-over-knicks-t179.htm#221 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/durant-green-lift-thunder-to-rare-win-over-knicks-t179.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/foye-leads-timberwolves-to-third-straight-win-t178.htm Admin MEMPHIS, Tenn.(AP) Randy Foye assured the Minnesota Timberwolves would achieve their longest winning streak in two years.Foye scored 23 points, including the go-ahead 3-pointer with 40 seconds left, and the Timberwolves weathered a late rally to beat the Memphis Grizzlies 94-87 Tuesday night.Following his basket, Foye blocked O.J. Mayo's shot on the next Memphis possession, leading to a fast-break basket by Ryan Gomes, and the Timberwolves secured their third straight win - the first ... Western Conference News Wed, 07 Jan 2009 13:59:33 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/foye-leads-timberwolves-to-third-straight-win-t178.htm#220 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/foye-leads-timberwolves-to-third-straight-win-t178.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/back-home-76ers-top-rockets-stop-losing-streak-t177.htm Admin PHILADELPHIA(AP) All the 76ers needed to finally beat a team from Texas was to fly out of the Lone Star State and head home.Once back in Philadelphia, Andre Iguodala took over.Iguodala tied his season high with 28 points and the reeling 76ers returned home from a dreadful road trip to beat the Houston Rockets 104-96 on Tuesday night."It was a bigger win than just a 'W' from a morale standpoint,'' Iguodala saidThe Sixers lost at Dallas and San Antonio in the final two games of a 1-5 road ... Western Conference News Wed, 07 Jan 2009 13:58:23 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/back-home-76ers-top-rockets-stop-losing-streak-t177.htm#219 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/back-home-76ers-top-rockets-stop-losing-streak-t177.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/mayo-leads-grizzlies-over-mavericks-102-82-t170.htm Admin MEMPHIS, Tenn.(AP) The Grizzlies came out determined to finally beat the Mavericks, and O.J. Mayo made sure they finished off the win.Mayo scored 18 of his 21 points in the second half, and Memphis snapped a 13-game losing streak to Dallas with a 102-82 victory Sunday."It's like that bully in school that's always coming and beating you up, and standing up to him,'' Memphis forward Hakim Warrick said of beating the Mavericks. "We were finally able to go out and get that ... Western Conference News Mon, 05 Jan 2009 22:02:33 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/mayo-leads-grizzlies-over-mavericks-102-82-t170.htm#212 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/mayo-leads-grizzlies-over-mavericks-102-82-t170.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/nowitzki-leads-mavericks-past-trail-blazers-t161.htm Admin PORTLAND, Ore.(AP) The veteran Dallas Mavericks gave the Portland Trail Blazers a lesson in toughness and discipline.Dirk Nowitzki scored 24 of his 30 points in the first half, and Jason Terry had 19 to help surging Dallas beat the Blazers 102-94 on Thursday night.Nowitzki was 12-of-18 from the field and scored on power moves and jumpers despite playing the second half in foul trouble. Josh Howard added 15 points for Dallas, 15-4 in its last 19 games after opening 2-7.The Mavericks ... Western Conference News Fri, 26 Dec 2008 15:45:46 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/nowitzki-leads-mavericks-past-trail-blazers-t161.htm#194 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/nowitzki-leads-mavericks-past-trail-blazers-t161.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/mason-s-3-pointer-gives-spurs-91-90-win-over-suns-t158.htm Admin PHOENIX(AP) Roger Mason didn't play at all in the fourth quarter until there were 4.3 seconds left. Then he came in and made the biggest shot of the game.Mason's 3-pointer from the corner at the buzzer Thursday gave the San Antonio Spurs a 91-90 victory over the Phoenix Suns."As a shooter, you're always prepared,'' Mason said. "Coach put me in in that situation, and I knew if I had it, I was going to shoot it.''The Suns had taken the lead on Grant Hill's layup on an out-of-bounds ... Western Conference News Fri, 26 Dec 2008 15:37:54 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/mason-s-3-pointer-gives-spurs-91-90-win-over-suns-t158.htm#191 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/mason-s-3-pointer-gives-spurs-91-90-win-over-suns-t158.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/nene-billups-lead-nuggets-past-blazers-97-89-t152.htm Admin DENVER(AP) The Denver Nuggets didn't need Carmelo Anthony's offense to beat Portland. Their defense wouldn't let Brandon Roy have another career night.Nene scored 19 points and had 11 rebounds, Chauncey Billups added 19 points and 10 assists, and the Nuggets' defense shut down Roy to beat the Trail Blazers 97-89 on Monday night.Roy scored a career-high 52 points against Phoenix on Thursday, but Denver's defense held the Portland guard to just eight points."It was a lot of everything,'' ... Western Conference News Tue, 23 Dec 2008 16:35:11 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/nene-billups-lead-nuggets-past-blazers-97-89-t152.htm#185 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/nene-billups-lead-nuggets-past-blazers-97-89-t152.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/parker-has-18-to-lead-san-antonio-in-101-85-win-t151.htm Admin SAN ANTONIO(AP) Gregg Popovich let his players figure this win out on their own.Tony Parker committed five turnovers in the first 10 minutes but overcame the rough start by scoring 18 points to lead the Spurs to a 101-85 victory over the reeling Sacramento Kings on Monday night.Facing a Kings team that now has lost four in a row and is 3-17 since opening the season 4-5, Popovich did little talking to his players during timeouts."I did nothing to earn my money,'' Popovich said. ... Western Conference News Tue, 23 Dec 2008 16:34:06 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/parker-has-18-to-lead-san-antonio-in-101-85-win-t151.htm#184 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/parker-has-18-to-lead-san-antonio-in-101-85-win-t151.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/yao-ming-gets-best-of-yi-as-rockets-dominate-nets-t150.htm Admin EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J.(AP) While Yao Ming won the showdown with fellow Chinese Olympian Yi Jianlian, the Houston Rockets beat the New Jersey Nets with defense and a boost from the smallest player on the court.Yao had 24 points and 16 rebounds and Aaron Brooks tied his career high with 22 points as the Rockets won their season-high fourth straight game with a 114-91 victory over the Nets on Monday night in a game televised live to China."Yao played big minutes and they didn't have ... Western Conference News Tue, 23 Dec 2008 16:33:06 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/yao-ming-gets-best-of-yi-as-rockets-dominate-nets-t150.htm#183 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/yao-ming-gets-best-of-yi-as-rockets-dominate-nets-t150.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/nash-sparks-suns-to-victory-over-nuggets-t148.htm Admin PHOENIX(AP) Steve Nash has a reputation as one of the best clutch shooters in the NBA. He added to his credentials Saturday night.Nash scored eight straight points in the final 3 minutes and the Phoenix Suns beat the Denver Nuggets for the eighth straight time at home, 108-101.Nash's first big basket gave the Suns a 101-98 lead. After Chauncey Billups tied it with a 3-pointer, Nash connected on two 3-pointers, giving Phoenix a 107-101 lead. A free throw by Shaquille O'Neal completed ... Western Conference News Sun, 21 Dec 2008 14:52:16 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/nash-sparks-suns-to-victory-over-nuggets-t148.htm#181 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/nash-sparks-suns-to-victory-over-nuggets-t148.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/parkers-leads-spurs-past-raptors-t147.htm Admin SAN ANTONIO(AP) The way Spurs coach Gregg Popovich saw it, Tony Parker could have been conducting a symphony.Parker had 24 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds, and San Antonio matched a franchise record with 16 3-pointers in a 107-97 victory over the Toronto Raptors on Saturday night."Tony orchestrated a wonderful game for us,'' Popovich said. "It's tough for a point guard between scoring and getting others involved. He made great decisions and spearheaded the win for ... Western Conference News Sun, 21 Dec 2008 14:51:19 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/parkers-leads-spurs-past-raptors-t147.htm#180 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/parkers-leads-spurs-past-raptors-t147.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/paul-leads-hornets-past-kings-99-90-t144.htm Admin NEW ORLEANS(AP) Chris Paul wasn't bashful about his intent to "smash'' the record for consecutive games with a steal.After his season-high eight swipes against the Sacramento Kings, it's no wonder why.Paul complemented his heady defense with a season-high 34 points, along with nine assists, and New Orleans won for the 11th time in 13 games, 99-90 on Saturday night."One thing we talked about at halftime is, whether we're scoring or not, defense has to be a constant and that's what ... Western Conference News Sun, 21 Dec 2008 14:48:07 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/paul-leads-hornets-past-kings-99-90-t144.htm#177 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/paul-leads-hornets-past-kings-99-90-t144.htm http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/mcgrady-rockets-hand-wolves-12th-straight-loss-t143.htm Admin MINNEAPOLIS(AP) From dunking on a player 8 inches taller and 55 pounds heavier than he is to swatting away shots and chasing after loose balls, Al Jefferson is trying everything he can to snap the Minnesota Timberwolves out of this miserable slump. Yet nothing seems to be working. Tracy McGrady scored 23 points and the Houston Rockets made 12 3-pointers to hand the Timberwolves their 12th straight loss, 109-102 on Saturday night. Aaron Brooks had 18 points and 10 rebounds for the ... Western Conference News Sun, 21 Dec 2008 14:46:49 GMT http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/mcgrady-rockets-hand-wolves-12th-straight-loss-t143.htm#176 http://planetlakers.forumotion.com/western-conference-news-f5/mcgrady-rockets-hand-wolves-12th-straight-loss-t143.htm