Even without Andrew Bynum, the Lakers were able to beat the new-look Suns in Phoenix, 130-124, to spoil Shaquille O’Neal’s debut.
Kobe stuffed the box score with 41 points, five rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks, while Pau Gasol chipped in with 29. Shaq had 15 points and nine boards, but his presence certainly helped Amare Stoudemire, who posted 37 points and 15 rebounds.
Kobe’s outburst underscores the loss of Shawn Marion, who provided good perimeter and interior defense. Phoenix was already bad defensively and without Marion they’re worse.
