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Lakers look to rebound from blowout loss

(Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) For a megastar on a tradition-rich franchise with 16 NBA championships, Kobe Bryant has no problem admitting how the Los Angeles Lakers' shortcomings have popped up repeatedly this season.

Bryant plopped down in a chair courtside at Chesapeake Energy Arena after the Lakers' practice Tuesday and talked shamelessly about their second blowout loss in five days - this one by 29 points - and what it will take to challenge the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference semifinals.

"We're a team that doesn't get down when we get blown out. We've been blown out a bunch of times this season, blown out last series a couple times," Bryant said.

Pacers' Bird voted NBA Executive of Year
Everything always seemed to come so easily for Larry Bird on a basketball court. The way the ball appeared almost destined to swish through the net every time he finished his lightning-quick release with a flick of his right wrist. The way he could suck a defender in while running the break, only to zip a no-look pass to a cutting Boston Celtics teammate for an easy bucket. (MORE)

Rangers get another chance to go up 2-0

NEW YORK (AP) For the third straight series, the New York Rangers are basking in the glow of a 1-0 lead earned in the confines of "The World's Most Famous Arena."

The Eastern Conference's top-seeded team has failed in its first two attempts to double that edge at Madison Square Garden. Given a third shot against the New Jersey Devils, the Rangers are determined to make the most of home-ice advantage in Game 2 of the East finals on Wednesday night. (MORE)

76ers set for rare 2nd-round home game
PHILADELPHIA (AP) See ya, Chicago. Thanks for the split, Boston. These young-and-fun 76ers are loaded with postseason surprises, aren't they? (MORE)

Coyotes F Hanzal suspended for Game 3
NEW YORK (AP) Phoenix Coyotes forward Martin Hanzal has been suspended one game for a hit on Los Angeles Kings forward Dustin Brown. The NHL announced the penalty Wednesday, a day after Hanzal was assessed a major penalty and game misconduct for boarding at 11:01 of the third period in Game 2 of the Western Conference finals series. (MORE)

Jays' Lawrie suspended 4 games, appeals
TORONTO (AP) Brett Lawrie heard the penalty, then expressed just one regret about his tantrum: that his batting helmet bounced up and hit an umpire. Major League Baseball suspended Lawrie for four games and fined him an undisclosed amount Wednesday, a day after the Toronto third baseman got into an altercation with umpire Bill Miller. (MORE)

Lakers' Ebanks fined $25K, Bynum $15K

Bodemeister 8-5 favorite for Preakness
BALTIMORE (AP) Just like in the Kentucky Derby, Bodemeister is the favorite in the Preakness. This time, Bob Baffert intends to justify the odds. (MORE)

Fine's wife threatens lawsuit vs. ESPN

Clemens' lawyer attacks McNamee's memory

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