Kings fall short against Lakers

LAS VEGAS -- Andrew Bynum scored 20 of his 24 points in the first half to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 98-92 exhibition victory over the Kings on Thursday night. Kobe Bryant had 18 points, four rebounds, four assists and four steals for the Lakers (2-1). Bryant was 6 of 16 from the field for Los Angeles, which led 85-63 in the third quarter only to see the Kings close within 95-92 with 1:48 left in the game. Bynum, who scored a field goal on the Lakers' next trip for a seven-point lead, finished 7 of 13 from the field and 10 of 12 from the free-throw line. He scored 16 points in the first quarter on 5-of-8 shooting and is averaging 22.5 points in the exhibition season. Jason Thompson led Sacramento (0-3) with 19 points and 14 rebounds. Spencer Hawes added 18 points and nine rebounds for the Kings.