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Sports

Jefferson helps Bobcats down Lakers

By Sports Network
Published | Updated

Los Angeles, CA (SportsNetwork.com) - Al Jefferson eclipsed the 30-point mark for the third straight game and matched a career-high with 40 points in the Charlotte Bobcats' 110-100 triumph over the Los Angeles Lakers from Staples Center.

Jefferson also grabbed 18 boards and handed out four assists in Charlotte's second straight win. The Bobcats improved to 2-0 on their current four-game road trip.

"I had my moments. I stayed with it and got hot," said Jefferson.

Gerald Henderson dropped 20 points while Ramon Sessions handed out 13 assists in the victory.

Pau Gasol had 24 and nine boards in the Lakers' sixth straight setback. Nick Young and Jodie Meeks shot just 13-for-37 together for 21 and 19 points, respectively, and Kendall Marshall had 10 points and 12 helpers.

"They just weren't ready to play for whatever reason," said Los Angeles head coach Mike D'Antoni. "Whether it's the end of January, who knows, but it's inexcusable."

The result of this one was never really in doubt. Meeks' trey at 3:49 of the first gave the Lakers their biggest lead at 18-14, but Chris Douglas-Roberts' layup moments later put Charlotte on top.

It was 31-27 after the opening period and 62-49 at halftime.

"Our defense is getting better," said Charlotte head coach Steve Clifford. "That's going to be our recipe the rest of the season."

The lead grew to as many as 20 points on multiple occasions during the third quarter. LA made a push late in the third, clawing to within 12 after a Ryan Kelly four-point play to close out the frame.

Kelly opened the fourth with a jumper, and Robert Sacre followed with a putback layup to make it 86-78, but Charlotte went to the post and Jefferson delivered with back-to-back buckets to restore its double digit lead.

The Lakers never got closer than eight the rest of the way.

Game Notes

The Lakers gave up 100-plus points for the 14th straight game ... Jefferson has scored 20 or more in 11 straight ... Charlotte outscored Los Angeles 64-38 in the paint ... The Bobcats made just two outside shots in 11 tries while the Lakers shot 6-of-26 from the arc.