Defending Champs Outlasts the Jazz

There are key reasons why the Los Angeles Lakers signed up Derick Fisher from the Utah Jazz 3 years ago, the player stepping up in the pressure as the Lakers win in a closed game 111-110. Fisher hit the crucial 3-pointer, 28.6 seconds in the fourth quarter that saw the Lakers claim back the lead 109-108. In the ensuing play, the Jazz could possible take the lead but Wes Matthews missed the three point attempt and Carlos Boozer takes the rebound but was clobbered on his undergoal attempt. Kobe Bryant sank the 2 free throws in the next play to make it 111-108. The Jazz has the chance to tie it but the Lakers used their foul sending Williams to the free throw line. William made the two free throws. The Lakers could bagged the victory but Ron Artest made an errand pass to Fisher. The Jazz has the last chance to win it but Deron Williams missed a jumpshot at the top of the key and West Matthews tipped in missed at the buzzer. Kobe Bryant lead the Lakers with 35 points and Derick Fisher and Ron Artest added 20 apiece while Pau Gasol had 14 points and 17 rebounds. Deron Williams had 28 points and Kyle Korver added 23 points off the bench for the Utah Jazz.

In the Other Playoff Game:

The Orlando Magic prove too much for the Atlanta Hawks, as they used a 17-7 run closing the first quarter for a 28-18 lead and never looked back. Rashard Lewis lead the Magic with 22 points and Dwight Howard added 21 points and 16 rebounds.