LA Lakers gave a solid effort, handling Phoenix with ease in today's 86-75 win. This came as no surprise to LA Lakers fans, who have been watching their team continue to improve recently. Players are starting to feel more confident as well. "I feel we can take on just about anybody right now," said today's star, Monroe. "The way this team's playing, there's no limit to how far we can go." LA Lakers head coach Andreas Helmle echoed his sentiment, saying "They all know they're as good as any other team in the league. They just have to stay focused and keep working, and the rest will take care of itself."

Lost in the excitement over LA Lakers was the performance of Phoenix star Velazquez.

LA Lakers was led by Monroe (15 points, 26 boards, 0 assists, a steal, 2 blocks), Keeney (17 points, 1 assists, 2 steals, a block), Miller (13 points, 8 boards, 0 assists, a steal). Phoenix was led by Velazquez (26 points, 1 assists, a steal, a block), Worrel (10 points, 12 boards, 1 assists, 2 steals, 3 blocks), Dupree (18 points, 7 boards, 1 assists, 2 steals).

box score LA Lakers* roster Phoenix roster