NBA: Los Angeles Lakers secure victory over Golden State Warriors despite Kobe Bryant's absence
Last Updated: 24/12/14 11:08am
Los Angeles Lakers proved they could cope without Kobe Bryant after claiming a 115-105 over the league-leading Golden State Warriors.
The NBA's No 3 career scorer was rested by the Lakers, but his teammates performed well in his absence, with Carlos Boozer scoring 18 points to seal victory over Golden State.
Coach Byron Scott decided to leave out the 36-year-old Bryant, who is averaging 35.5 minutes through the first 27 games of his 19th NBA season.
Stephen Curry had 22 points and six assists for the Warriors, but could not prevent them from slipping to only their fourth defeat in 27 games.
Elsewhere, Kevin Love returned to haunt Minnesota as he scored 20 points for the Cleveland Cavaliers in a 125-104 win over the Timberwolves.
Love faced Minnesota for the first time since his summer trade and played a key role for the Cavaliers, while Kyrie Irving also impressed with 29 points.
LeBron James added 24 points for Cleveland, but the game was overshadowed by a serious leg injury to center Anderson Varejao, who had to be helped back to the locker room.
