LOS ANGELES — Kobe Bryant had 23 points, 11 rebounds and five assists Tuesday night to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 96-76 season-opening victory over the Portland Trail Blazers and spoiling Greg Oden’s debut, which was cut short by another injury.
Bryant orchestrated a well-balanced offense for the Lakers, who also played tenacious defense.
Oden’s highly anticipated NBA debut didn’t last long; the 20-year-old center left the game late in the first half with an injured right foot after taking four shots and going scoreless. He had five rebounds, one turnover, blocked one shot and picked up two fouls while playing 12:51.
The injury was diagnosed as a sprain and X-rays were negative. Oden will undergo an MRI on Wednesday.
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