Lakers roll by Nuggets again

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That the Lakers defeated the Denver Nuggets, 104-90, Friday night at Staples Center was no surprise.

After all, the Lakers swept the Nuggets in the first round of the playoffs last season. The Lakers beat the Nuggets earlier this season in Denver.

All total, the Lakers have won nine consecutive games against the Nuggets.

Kobe Bryant led the Lakers Friday night with 29 points. Andrew Bynum had 13 points, 13 rebounds and five assists, which tied his career high.

Lamar Odom had a strong game off the bench with 13 points on five-for-seven shooting. Trevor Ariza also was big off the bench, scoring 11 points and grabbing seven rebounds.

Nene led the Nuggets with 18 points.

The Lakers led by as much as 27 points before they eased up and the Nuggets got back into the game.

But the Lakers rolled out to an 88-67 lead at the end of the third quarter and coasted the rest of the way.

-- Brad Turner