It was considered “Kobe Day'' because Monday was 8/24, the two numbers Kobe Bryant wore during his 20-year career. “We want to have this be a day to celebrate his life and carry that type of emotion into the game,'' Lakers coach Frank Vogel said before the game. Inspired by Bryant, the Lakers' 24-8 lead seemed fortuitous, and they went on to outscore the Blazers 43-25 in the first quarter. It was the most points in a half for Los Angeles in a playoff game since a game against Denver in 1987. James nailed 3-pointer from some 36 feet out and then demonstratively nodded as the Lakers took an 80-53 lead.

Source: The Standard August 25, 2020 03:56 UTC