NBA Basketball Betting: L.A. Lakers vs. Phoenix Suns

The Lakers try to slow down the running and gunning Suns. (AP Images)

Kobe Bryant and the L.A. Lakers look to win for the third time in as many meetings with their only threat in the Pacific Division as they visit the Phoenix Suns tonight.

NBA betting odds have not been released.

Among the league leaders with 29.8 points per game, Bryant is averaging 35.9 over the last seven as the Lakers have gone 6-1.

He scored 38 in Saturday’s 112-103 double-overtime victory at Sacramento. Bryant is expected to play tonight against the Suns after straining his right elbow late in the third quarter versus the Kings.

Phoenix is looking to rebound from its third loss in four games, falling 132-127 at Golden State on Saturday after committing 21 turnovers.

Phoenix’s last four opponents are averaging 112.8 points and shooting 49.1 percent from field.

Ron Artest could miss his second straight game after falling down a set of stairs, suffering a concussion and injuring his left elbow at his home Christmas night.

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