Kobe's 41 spoils Shaq's debut in Lakers 130-124 triumph

It was by far the most anticipated matchup of the season. The final regular game between two of the league top teams, with both clubs able to complete a blockbuster trade this month. After meeting in the opening round in the past two seasons, Shaq's coming add more fuel to this rivalry. 

Everybody was waiting to see how the big fella would fit in, regarding his current shape and the up tempo style playing by the offensive Suns. Phoenix scored 124pts as a team, with O'Neal recording 15pts & 9rbds in 29 minutes. Problem was that the Lakers were even better. Playing the best basketball of their season, L.A continued to impress, posting a 130-124 victory over Phoenix.

Gasol scored 29pts and Odom added 22 for L.A, which now is tied with Phoenix for the 1st place in the pacific division. L.A is also 8-1 since acquiring Gasol in early february. Kobe & Shaq, playing against each other in a regular season game for the first time since january 2006, exchanged smiles and hugs before the game. 

But the true story was again Kobe. In a playoff-type atmosphere and playinf through a fracture in his finger, Kobe scored 41pts on 16 of 25 shooting - his 90th career 40pt game. Outscoring his rival Raja Bell 41-0, he was just unstoppable. No matter who was garding him, he made a variety of tough shots, high flying dunks and never let Phoenix regain the lead in the final minutes.

And now, he can count on another all star in his team to get the job done. Gasol played great once again, making a three point play and a fast break dunk in the closing moments.

L.A won its third game vs Phoenix this season - that could lead to a potential home court advantage if the two teams meet again in this year's playoffs.