The Los Angeles Lakers had arguably their best performance of the season as they defeated the Golden State Warriors 115-105 without star Kobe Bryant who was held out of the game to get some rest.
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The Lakers showcased plenty of ball movement and seven players scored in double figures in the victory. Afterwards, Jeremy Lin said the Lakers must find a balance when Kobe returns according to Lakers Nation reporter Serena Winters:
J. Lin (1/2):"It's definitely different b/c when he's (Kobe) in the game he's our best player so you want to definitely try to cater to him"
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) December 24, 2014
J. Lin (2/2): "And get him (Kobe) goin' & allow him to do what he does. We've got to find a balance to get the best of both worlds."
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) December 24, 2014
While the Lakers are unlikely to repeat a performance like this on a consistent basis without their best player, the team proved that they could step up when necessary.
Throughout his career Kobe has always been more of an isolation player, but it can take the rest of the team out of the game at times. Obviously Kobe needs to get the ball, but spreading it around gives the rest of the team confidence.
It can be difficult sometimes to play with Kobe, but certain guys earn his trust over a period of time. Their performance against the Warriors should have showed Kobe what his teammates are capable of, and hopefully will lead to a continued effort to maintain the offensive flow the Lakers showed.
[divide]VIDEO: Jeremy Lin Discusses Playing With Kobe And Playing Without Kobe