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LOS ANGELES -- The new-look Los Angeles Lakers didn't need Kobe Bryant to do what they always do against the Dallas Mavericks.
With Gary Payton leading the fast break and Karl Malone providing plenty of everything, the Lakers put aside their squabbles and defeated Dallas at home for the 26th consecutive time -- 109-93 Tuesday night.
"Well, they're awesome," Dallas coach Don Nelson said. "Even without Kobe they have enough firepower to dominate the league."
Payton had 21 points and nine assists, and Malone added 15 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists to barely miss the fourth triple-double of his career. Both received standing ovations when they left in the fourth quarter, with Bryant among those lavishing the two newcomers with applause.
Shaquille O'Neal, Derek Fisher and Devean George -- three of the holdovers from last season's Lakers -- each added 16 points.
With Gary Payton leading the fast break and Karl Malone providing plenty of everything, the Lakers put aside their squabbles and defeated Dallas at home for the 26th consecutive time -- 109-93 Tuesday night.
"Well, they're awesome," Dallas coach Don Nelson said. "Even without Kobe they have enough firepower to dominate the league."
Payton had 21 points and nine assists, and Malone added 15 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists to barely miss the fourth triple-double of his career. Both received standing ovations when they left in the fourth quarter, with Bryant among those lavishing the two newcomers with applause.
Shaquille O'Neal, Derek Fisher and Devean George -- three of the holdovers from last season's Lakers -- each added 16 points.
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