Kobe Bryant Scores 46 in Win Against Raptors

A bit more than two years removed from his amazing 81-point performance against the Toronto Raptors, Kobe Bryant was at it again, scoring a high-flying 46 points to propel the Lakers past the Canadian team, 121-101. It was the first game for the Lakers after the official announcement of the trade acquisition of Pau Gasol from the Memphis Grizzlies.

In the trade, the Lakers put up Kwame Brown, Javaris Crittenton and two first-round draft picks to get Gasol, who will occupy the center spot until Andrew Bynum returns. Gasol is scheduled to make his debut against Washington Wizards on Sunday, Feb. 3.

The consensus among Laker fans was one of jubilation - not only for the acquisition of the first franchise-level center the team has had since trading Shaquille O'Neal, but for the subtraction of former #1 draft pick Kwame Brown, who had not endeared himself to fans with his lackluster play.

Bryant was at his free-wheeling best against the Raptors, thrilling the crowd with six thunderous dunk, including a one-handed jam in the fourth quarter. He shot 19-for-28, including 4-for-8 from behind the arc, in addition to seven rebounds and five assists.

Laker guard Sasha Vujacic chipped in with 22 points and reserve guard Jordan Farmar had 13, who came in having lost by one, 90-89, to the Detroit Pistons on Jan. 31.

For the Raptors, center/forward Andrea Bargnani had a career-high 28 to lead his team for the second consecutive game. Center Chris Bosh had 22 points and 15 rebounds; guard Jose Calderon had 17, and Anthony Parker 12.

------
KobeBryantDVD.com has Kobe Bryant DVDs for sale, such as the full game DVD of Kobe's 81-point game on 01/22/06, Lakers vs. Toronto. We also carry apparel like the Kobe Bryant women's jersey and Kobe Bryant's black Crazy 8 sneakers. Michael Jordan DVDs are also offered for the same low price: MJ's 69-point game against Cleveland and his 59-pts. vs. the Pistons.