Lakers Go to Washington

After blowing a four-point lead with a minute and a half in yesterday's game at Toronto to lose 106-105 (Kobe finished one assist shy of a triple-double, finishing with a 27-16-9 line), the Lakers moved back stateside and spent the morning visiting President Obama at the White House, who honored them for their championship run last season.

Here's a short video from NBA TV. (Pay close attention to Obama's plea to Phil Jackson to give some members of Congress a few hoops pointers.)

After visiting the White House today, the Purple and Gold will continue their swing through the Eastern seaboard with a quick stay in D.C. through tomorrow night with a game against the Gilbert Arena-less Wizards. Also, Ron Artest, who was not part of last year's title, sat out the visit with the flu. He'll be a game-time decision tomorrow night.