Lakers dominate Nuggets, take easy 103-88 win in series opener

If Game 1 of the first round of the NBA playoff series between the Lakers and Denver Nuggets is any indication, this series is going to be short.

The Lakers completely dominated the Nuggets, winning 103-88 on Sunday afternoon at Staples Center.

Where do you start?

--Andrew Bynum’s 10 points, 10 blocked shots and 13 rebounds.

--Kobe Bryant’s 31 points after a slow start.

--Jordan Hill’s 10 rebounds off the bench.

--Pau Gasol making a three-pointer.

The Lakers were so dominant that people started for the exits with more than two minutes left to play. The Lakers’ biggest lead was 21 points. The Nuggets never had the lead.

PHOTOS: Lakers vs. Nuggets, Game 1

Even starter-by-suspension Devin Ebanks was effective, playing only 19 minutes but scoring 12 points and grabbing five rebounds. Metta World Peace now has five games remaining on his suspension.

Bryant came out a little rusty, going two for 10 from the field in the first half but making nine of 14 in the second half. Adding to that, he had five rebounds and four assists.

Danilo Gallinari led the Nuggets with 19 points.

The Lakers’ bench scored only 23 points but it was more a testament to how effective the starters were. Gasol finished with 13 points and Ramon Sessions had 14. Bynum’s 10 blocks were a franchose playoff record and ties the NBA playoff record.

The Lakers finished 43 for 86 from the field, compared to 32 for 90 for the Nuggets.

Game 2 is set for Tuesday at Staples Center.

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Lakers dominate Nuggets, take easy 103-88 win in series opener