Nuggets break through, even series

LOS ANGELES - The Lakers' 24-year playoff dominance of the Denver Nuggets dissipated over the final 29 seconds of the fourth quarter.

That's when Kenyon Martin hit a layup in traffic and Chauncey Billups made 3 of 4 free throws to give Denver a 106-103 victory in Game 2 on Thursday night to even the Western Conference finals.

It was Denver's first playoff win against Los Angeles, which owned an 11-0 record dating to 1985, the second-longest postseason winning streak against one team in NBA history.

Carmelo Anthony had 34 points and 14 rebounds, Billups had 27 points and 16 rebounds and Linas Kleiza added 16 points for the Nuggets. Nene finished with 6 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists.

Kobe Bryant had 32 points, including making all 10 of his free throws, Trevor Ariza scored a career playoff-high 20 points and Pau Gasol 17 points and 17 rebounds for the Lakers, who dropped to 7-2 at Staples Center in the playoffs this season.

"To get one on the road is always tough. We came in and got it," Anthony said. "We're mentally tough and we showed that in this game coming off the loss that we gave away in Game 1."

Game 3 is Saturday in Denver.

"I think this is going to be a long series," Denver coach George Karl said.

The Nuggets recovered from poor free-throw shooting in a 2-point loss in Game 1 to make 17 consecutive foul shots until Billups missed one with four seconds remaining. He hit the second to seal the victory.

Derek Fisher launched a 3-pointer from the right corner that missed as time expired.

Tied at 101-101, Martin made the layup off Nene's assist that gave the Nuggets the lead for good.

The Lakers were shaky on free throws in the fourth, making 9 of 14, while Denver didn't blink at the line.