Few games live up to the hype, but today's thriller did all that and then some. Things started off a little slow, but the intensity picked up quickly. Neither sides was able to gain much of an advantage, but LA Lakers appeared to be gaining the momentum for a decisive run late in the game. Toronto refused to stand by and watch the hard work go to waste, and was able to recover enough to send the game into overtime.

Before overtime began, coach Bob had some words with his team, encouraging them to keep the pressure on. Although not the screaming and yelling that Bob is known for, the talk had its desired effect, and Toronto came out on top in the end.

Toronto was led by Chiles (16 points, 7 boards, 14 assists, 6 steals), Moore (28 points, 9 boards, 2 assists, a block), James (19 points, a steal). LA Lakers was led by Dixson (21 points, 6 boards, 15 assists, 2 steals, a block), Jenkins (18 points, 8 boards, 0 assists, 2 blocks), Richardson (17 points, 11 boards, 0 assists, 2 blocks).

Toronto improve to 37-34 and 24-11 at home. They hold at #3 in the Atlantic and remain at #6 overall in the Eastern Conference. With the defeat, LA Lakers stand at 34-37. They stay at #4 in the Pacific and remain at #9 overall in the Western Conference.

box score Toronto roster LA Lakers* roster