Daily NBA Fix 12-15-13: MVP Race Heats Up

Los Angeles Lakers 88, CHARLOTTE BOBCATS 85

Dec 14, 2013; Charlotte, NC, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant (24) looks to pass as he is defended by Charlotte Bobcats forward Jeffery Taylor (44) during the second half of the game at Time Warner Cable Arena. Lakers win 88-85. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports

That’s More Like It – Kobe Bryant scored 21 points with seven rebounds and eight assists (and seven turnovers), as it appears he’s getting his game back for the Lakers (11-12). Pau Gasol added 15 points, seven rebounds and four blocks, as the Lakers turned a four-point deficit heading into the fourth quarter into the three-point victory. The Bobcats (10-14) got 24 points and eight assists from Kemba Walker.

DALLAS MAVERICKS 106, Milwaukee Bucks 93

Not Even That Close – Brandan Wright led the Mavericks (14-10) with 19 points off the bench in a laugher that wasn’t nearly as close as the score indicated. Vince Carter scored 15 points with six rebounds, nine assists and three steals, with Jose Calderon leading the starters with 18 points. The Bucks (5-19) got 18 points, 13 rebounds, two steals and two blocks from John Henson in the loss.