Tag: denver

39 points Against Lakers Carmelo Anthony scored 39 points and Billups added 18 for the Nuggets, who hadn’t played since taking care of Dallas in five games last Wednesday. “There’s no moral victories in playoff basketball,” Denver coach George Karl said. “The next 48 hours are going to be difficult.” Game 2 is Thursday at Staples Center. The Nuggets have lost 11 consecutive playoff games to the Lakers, including a first-round sweep last season. Bryant, who was 9 for 9 from the line in the fourth quarter, made two for a 101-99 lead with 30 seconds left. Trevor Ariza stole the inbounds pass near midcourt and the Lakers were able to run the clock down to 10 seconds when Bryant made two more free throws. “He threw the ball and gave me just enough air to go get it,” Ariza said of the steal of Anthony Carter. “That’s all it took.” Billups hit a 3-pointer to get the Nuggets to 103-102 with 5 seconds left, but then Anthony fouled Bryant, who made his final two foul shots. They have the best closer in the sport and we didn’t do enough,” Karl said. Smith made one free throw with 3.2 seconds left and missed the second intentionally. Bryant grabbed the game’s last rebound. “Any great player would love that moment, get the ball in their hands every time down the court and make something happen,” Anthony said. The Lakers were back in action 48 hours after closing out Houston in seven games in the conference semifinals. to win it at the end. We got a couple stops that helped us.”Carmelo …