Knicks Vs. Lakers: Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony Clash On West Coast

The New York Knicks played late into Wednesday night before losing to the Golden State Warriors, but Carmelo Anthony and Co. will go right back at it with a game against Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday night. The Lakers are coming off of a 25-point victory over the Utah Jazz earlier this week, but the Knicks represent a tough contest when the two teams face off at 10:30 p.m. ET as the second game of TNT's nationally televised doubleheader.

The Lakers look a bit different than most are used to with Josh McRoberts and Devin Ebanks in the starting lineup with Andrew Bynum serving the final game of his four-game suspension while Metta World Peace comes off the bench. The different look didn't hurt their output on Tuesday, however, as Bryant eased his way to 26 points, eight rebounds and five assists as he continues to deal with a torn ligament in his wrist.

New York was tied heading into the final stanza of play against the Warriors on Wednesday night, but couldn't close out the game as they eventually fell, 92-78, for their second straight loss. Point guard play was an issue, but Melo connected on just three of his 13 field goal attempts to score just 13 points in the loss. Amare Stoudemire had another solid game, but the Knicks will need to be better in order to pick up a victory in the second game of their three-game road trip.

The Lakers are likely the favorites in this game, but both team could use the early-season win as neither team's fanbase will be happy with thier team having a record below .500.

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