By the numbers

After being outrebounded badly in Game 1, the Lakers edged the Jazz 20-19 on the boards in the decisive first half ... Only 13 of 211 teams that have trailed 2-0 in the NBA playoffs have ever come back to win the series ... Utah is now 7-28 all-time on the road in the conference semifinals.

First-quarter breakdown

After four lead changes, the Lakers pull away with a 13-0 run. They built a 25-13 advantage while holding the Jazz scoreless for 4:40. Utah broke the drought with five straight points, but L.A. responded with a pair of 3-pointers by Derek Fisher and a basket by Ronny Turiaf to take a 33-18 lead by quarter's end. NBA MVP Kobe Bryant led all scorers with 10 points.

Second-quarter breakdown

The Lakers lead 63-49 at halftime thanks to the play of Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom. The duo combined for 28 points and 14 rebounds in the first half. L.A. capitalized on ineffective play by Utah stars Deron Williams (three points) and the foul-plagued Carlos Boozer, who was held scoreless. They were a combined 1-of-9 from the field.

Third-quarter breakdown

The Jazz shoot 64 percent from the field to climb back into contention. They closed the gap to eight on two occasions — at 65-57 and 88-80 — as Williams regained his form running the offense. Besides distributing the ball, he scored eight points in the quarter. The Lakers, however, took a 93-83 advantage into the final quarter. Bryant had 27 points after three periods.

Fourth-quarter breakdown

Utah made things interesting when Boozer hit a pair of free throws to make it 99-94 with 5:58 remaining. The Jazz, however, could draw no closer down the stretch as earlier shooting woes resurfaced. They missed five of their next six shots from the field. The Lakers, meanwhile, extended their lead back to double-figures and regained some breathing room to thwart the threat. Bryant wound up with a game-high 34 points.

Up next: Game 3 on Friday

The series now shifts to EnergySolutions Arena, where the Jazz are league-best 39-5 (including playoffs) at home this season. Game 3 is Friday night at 7 and will be broadcast on ESPN. Lakers coach Phil Jackson will make his first postseason appearance in Utah since guiding the Bulls to the 1998 NBA championship over the Jazz.