The Lakers defeated the Rockets 89-70 on Sunday afternoon in Game 7 of their semifinal series.

Pau Gasol starred with 21 points and 18 rebounds, Trevor Ariza posted 15 points and 5 boards, and Kobe Bryant added 14 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists.

Los Angeles shot 46% from the field, while holding Houston to just 36% at the Staples Center.

The Lakers won the rebounding battle by 22, and attempted four more foul shots in the deciding game.

Aaron Brooks scored a team-high 13 points on 4-for-13 shooting, Luis Scola tallied 11 points and 6 rebounds, and Ron Artest contributed 7 points, 8 boards and 5 assists in the loss.

The Rockets forced 19 turnovers, but were outplayed thoroughly in all other aspects against the Lakers.

They will host the Nuggets in the Western Conference Finals beginning Tuesday night.