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In the picture, Kobe Bryant is seen here playing despite ankle injury to get the Lakers back in the game. Reuters

After trailing the entire first half, the Lakers went on a big run to start the second half, and never looked back, beating the Magic 97-84, at Staples Center.

Kobe Bryant, who was a game-time decision, spurred the comeback with 12 third-quarter points. He finished with 16 points, five rebounds, and four assists.

Bryant struggled for most of the first half, shooting just two-of-10 from the field for four points.

The Lakers got off to a slow start in a game where defense was emphasized by both teams. But Los Angeles outscored the Magic 30-20 in the third quarter, and the Magic couldn't get back on track.

Andrew Bynum has not let up on his fantastic rebound pace. The Lakers' center finished the game with 18 rebounds, to go along with four blocks.

Lakers' big man Pau Gasol led all scorers with 23 points, to go with four assists and three rebounds.

The Magic were led by Dwight Howard who finished wtih 22 points and 15 rebounds. They also recieved a solid contribution from forward Ryan Anderson who scored 13 points and added seven rebounds.

It was a difficult loss for the Magic, who outplayed the Lakers in the first half. Orlando was flat in the second half and had trouble scoring in the fourth quarter.

That Magic continue their uneven play since the All-Star break. They have won six games and lost six since the break.

Guard J.J. Redick did not suit up for the Magic.

The Lakers improve to a 48-20 record, while the Magic drop to 42-26.

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