It was probably no good being a Lakers in the changing room following their third straight defeat against the Dallas Mavericks (92-98). Coach Phil Jackson showed how upset he was more than once during the game, having a go especially at his ‘soft’ big man Pau Gasol. Still, the Lakers were ahead into the fourth quarter…before suffering a season-breaking 20-7 run, which sent coach Jackson furious going into the tunnel. Dirk Nowitzki had 32 points and 9 rebounds, while Peja Stojakovic had 11 of his
Meanwhile, Derrick Rose exploded for a career high 44 points to lead the Bulls 2-1 ahead in its series against Atlanta, reclaiming home court advantage (99-82). While Rose piled up the points, Noah and Gibson made sure he had the firepower with a 26 rebounds combined of which 15 offensive boards.