really helped down the stretch.  He made key scores off pretty post-up moves to put the game away.  His defense was also better in the 4th quarter.  

Shaq is traded and we still have the Corpse to mourn.

"Bryant...let out a "There is a God, there is a God" quote in his postgame television interview immediately after the final buzzer."

While in Chicago was heard the cautionary murmur, "Satan is real.  Hide the innocents."

Kobe:

"I watched him play so many times, I know his skill level and what he can do, and this offense is perfect because he can showcase his versatility as opposed to being in Memphis where he had to hug the post or go out and set pick-and-rolls," Bryant said. "Here, he's being asked to make plays and asked to make decisions with the basketball, and he can showcase a little more of what he has, which is what he does for the Spanish national team. He's an incredible player. He makes everybody's life easier. It makes the game simple. It's fun."

Gosh, maybe Kobe sees something different from what the Pau haters here see.

Was he sick?

3-13, 6 points, NO FT ATTEMPTS, 7 turnovers, 40 minutes, +20 rating.

The Lakers still rocked the Nets in Jersey by 15 points.