If you give Rip (Hamilton) shots and he's in rhythm, he'll often make those shots.

We stayed in the game because of Chauncey and Rip (Hamilton).

We tried to get Carlos on the floor a lot more with Rip (Hamilton). He got a lot of guys involved and overall did a great job for us, even though he fouled out.

[The constant, of course, is Bryant, who disheartens defenses because he makes so many shots under duress.] Kobe is the best tough-shot-maker in the game, ... It is very discouraging for a defense to have done something perfectly, then have him come along and make the shot anyway.

Tonight was a game where we were locked in defensively and aggressively dictated what kind of shots they were going to get. I thought offensively we were able to do what we wanted.

I wouldn't say it messed my rhythm up. It changes the way you prepare for the game. You can't wait and try to get into the flow. You have to come in and contribute right away.