In Kobe Bryant’s final tip to Cleveland, he and LeBron James’ much-anticipated duel ended up being a rather one-sided affair.
While Bryant shot just 5-of-16 for 17 points, James went off for 21 points and 11 assists, while Kyrie Irving scored 35 in the Cavaliers’ 120-111 victory.
Cleveland (38-14) had the Lakers (11-44) playing from behind the entire game by rolling off a 25-8 run to take a 17-point lead midway through the first quarter. From there, Irving took over by seemingly taking the ball to the hoop with ease for 11 second-quarter points.
Though Irving scored 10 more in the next period as well, the Lakers attempted a late rally in the final quarter.