Lakers lead Bulls five at the half

His last basket gave the Lakers a 17-point lead in the first half.

But that lead didn't last, as the Lakers' defense let down and allowed the Chicago Bulls to pull to within 61-56 at the end of the half.

Gasol had 24 points in the first half. He also had four rebounds and three assists.

When he scored in the second quarter, Gasol gave the Lakers a 57-40 lead.

But the Bulls crawled back by going on a 9-0 run to make it a game again.

Gasol was flying through the air for dunks, scoring down low, making jumpers.

Gasol was doing it all for the Lakers, scoring 18 of the team's 30 first-quarter points.

Gasol missed only two of his nine shots in the first, two of his six free throws. Gasol also contributed four of the Lakers' 12 rebounds.