Bryant on form as Lakers take series lead

Kobe Bryant amassed 29 points as the Los Angeles Lakers earned a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven NBA finals courtesy of a 91-84 victory over Boston Celtics.

The Lakers were 26-17 ahead after the first quarter and 52-40 in front by half-time, although the Celtics reduced the gap to 68-67 in the fourth quarter.

Bryant scored only four points in the final quarter but Derek Fisher had four key baskets, finishing on 16 points.

Kevin Garnett was the top-scorer for the Celtics, recording 25 points.

Ray Allen was an integral figure when the Celtics won game two, scoring 32 points in a 103-94 win, but could manage only two in this contest, with several of his colleagues also below their best.

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