Lakers edge struggling Wizards 106-104

By HOWARD FENDRICH, AP Sports Writer - December 5, 2008

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WASHINGTON (AP)—Kobe Bryant’s first field-goal attempt, officially, came about 5 minutes into Friday night’s game.

Finding his path blocked on a drive into the lane, Bryant “shot” the ball off the glass right back to himself, then threw a perfect pass to Pau Gasol for a wide-open jumper. Bryant drew louder “oohs” and “aahs” later with a double-pump, two-handed reverse jam off a behind-the-back feed from Trevor Ariza.

Bryant entertained enough to draw “M-V-P!” chants again on the road, but he and his teammates on the best-in-the-West Lakers also nearly found a way to blow a 20-point lead against the worst-in-the-East Wizards before pulling out a 106-104 victory.

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