Kobe Bryant scored 18 points on 5-for-13 shooting and also had eight rebounds to lead the Lakers past the Denver Nuggets in an exhibition game tonight at Staples Center. Lamar Odom and rookie Devin Ebanks each added 14 points. Odom also had six rebounds and seven assists as the Lakers improved to 2-2. Ebanks had seven rebounds. Former UCLA standout Arron Afflalo scored 20 points for the Nuggets. Carmelo Anthony didn’t play.

Bryant on the play of Ebanks during training camp and in four exhibition games: “Devin’s going a great job. He’s making all the right plays. He’s getting all the hustle points. He’s making timely jumpers. Defensively, he’s active. He’s very impressive.”