The Lakers are in Cleveland to face the Cavaliers today, but with both teams struggling, this matchup does not look very promising. Last year, the Lakers struggled at the beginning of the season and headed to Cleveland with a 9-12 record. The Cavs were struggling as well and they lost Irving for 11 games due to a broken finger. Irving would be making his return to the court to face the Lakers, giving him a chance to showcase his talents against Bryant on December 11, 2012.
Irving had challenged Bryant to a one-on-one game at the Summer Olympic training camp, which would amuse Bryant. Irving was confident in his talent and made a bet with Bryant for $50,000, which would go to the winner’s charity. The game never took place because of an injury to Irving, but it was interesting to see a young player challenge one of the greatest of all-time.
The Lakers were favored to win the game and Bryant did everything in his power to get the Lakers the victory. Bryant would score 42 points and grab five rebounds, but it would not be enough. Irving would lead the Cavs to victory by scoring 28 points to go along with 11 assists and six rebounds. While Bryant would get the better of the individual match-up, Cleveland was able to get the best of the Lakers.
Here is the video of Kobe and Kyrie facing off in Cleveland in 2012:
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chris Kaman Finally Getting Some Playing Time With Pau Gasol Out
