Everything clicked for LA Lakers today, as they soundly beat New Orleans 103-89. New Orleans looked beaten for most of the afternoon, and the final outcome was in little doubt. "I thought we came out ready to play, but we were just overmatched," said New Orleans coach Bob. "It's kind of demoralizing to lose that way, knowing that you played your best and it wasn't nearly enough." Bob now has the unenviable task of getting his team ready to face another day.

LA Lakers coach Andreas Helmle couldn't be happier, though. His game plan was executed perfectly, and his players were able to dominate all aspects of the game. "It's great to get a win like this, when everything went according to plan."

LA Lakers was led by Washington (9 points, 5 boards, 17 assists, 2 steals), Keeney (28 points, 2 assists), Monroe (11 points, 13 boards, 1 assists, a block). New Orleans was led by Newby (21 points), Buehler (10 points, 6 boards, 1 assists, a block), Brown (11 points, a steal).

LA Lakers jump to 34-16. They hold at #1 in the Pacific and remain at #3 overall in the Western Conference. New Orleans are now 23-23 and 12-12 at home. They remain at #4 in the Southwest and fall to #11 overall in the Western Conference.

box score LA Lakers* roster New Orleans roster