PHILADELPHIA (AP) Allen Iverson played one of his best offensive games of the season Thursday night, scoring 39 points to lead the struggling Philadelphia 76ers past the weary and depleted Los Angeles Lakers 96-73.

In a game that stayed competitive for only a few minutes, Iverson had his way against defender Derek Fisher and repeatedly freed himself for mid-range jumpers and drives. Iverson shot 15-for-29 from the field _ missing his final four shots _ and added six assists in one of the 76ers' most lopsided victories of the season.

The Lakers, playing their fourth road game in five nights and extra tired after arriving in Philadelphia around 4 a.m., lost Gary Payton to an ejection in a first quarter in which they scored just 10 points _ matching their season low set earlier this week at Indiana.

Shaquille O'Neal missed 11 of 13 foul shots in the first half, finishing 3-for-15 from the line with 17 points.

The Lakers were supposed to be joined by Kobe Bryant, who is on the injured list with a lacerated finger. But Bryant defied coach Phil Jackson and did not show up, leaving the team wondering about his whereabouts until shortly before gametime.

Bryant's agent told the Lakers that Bryant would join them in Orlando on the fifth stop of their seven-game road trip.

Glenn Robinson added 26 points for the 76ers.

Spurs 96, SuperSonics 90

SEATTLE (AP) Tim Duncan had 23 points and 14 rebounds, and Tony Parker added 18 points to lead San Antonio over Seattle.

The Spurs beat the Sonics for the fifth straight time, sending Seattle to its fifth loss in six games. San Antonio, making the second stop on a seven-game road trip, has won four in a row in Seattle.

Hedo Turkoglu scored 14 for the Spurs.

Rashard Lewis led Seattle with 25 points and nine rebounds, while Ray Allen scored 22.