The Lakers trailed for most of this game, but big plays on both ends of the floor down the stretch helped Los Angeles secure its sixth win in its last eight contests.
Meeks, Gasol and Nick Young all hit big shots within the final minute-and-a-half, and L.A. used 12 threes to help down Sacramento.
The Lakers shot 48 percent from the floor overall and won in spite of being out-rebounded 51-36.
The Kings got 20 points from DeMarcus Cousins and Ben McLemore, but turnovers and missed opportunities in the waning moments cost them a victory.
Sacramento, which shot 43 percent from the floor, has now lost four heartbreakers in a row.
Key Player Grades
Pau Gasol, Power Forward
Pau Gasol struggled for most of this one.
The big man went 6-of-15 from the floor, never establishing good position in the post and settling for long fadeaways instead of utilizing his footwork inside.
Gasol also didn't get many good looks from the perimeter and was unable throughout the night to become a significant cog in the offense. To make matters worse, Gasol had some trouble defending DeMarcus Cousins whenever he drew him as an assignment, as Cousins occasionally bullied him inside.
However, Gasol hit a huge jumper to put the Lakers up one with about a minute-and-a-half to go, adding some oomph to his overall performance.
Plus, he went 7-of-7 from the free-throw line.
Gasol ended with 19 points and seven rebounds.
Grade: C
Jodie Meeks, Shooting Guard
Jodie Meeks had quite an evening.
Meeks scored 19 points and hit o...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
