LA Lakers star Miller led his team to a win today in a key game against Portland. Although standings were at stake, the game was as much about bragging rights as anything. The teams have a long history against each other that began when coaches Andreas Helmle and Bob traded insults after an apparently intentional injury to one of Andreas Helmle's players. Although Bob has long denied that there was any malicious intent, LA Lakers fans don't believe it and turn out in large numbers whenever Portland comes to town.

LA Lakers was led by Miller (22 points, 7 boards, 4 assists), Washington (11 points, 11 assists, a steal), Sanchez (22 points, 2 blocks). Portland was led by Smith (26 points, 7 boards, 0 assists, 2 steals), Holmes (6 points, 13 assists, 3 steals), Mcneil (16 points, 6 boards, 1 assists, 2 blocks).

With this victory, LA Lakers improve to 31-15 and 19-7 at home. They stay at #1 in the Pacific and stay at #3 overall in the Western Conference. After the defeat, Portland drop to 24-20. They stay at #4 in the Northwest and remain at #6 overall in the Western Conference.

box score LA Lakers* roster Portland roster