The Lakers played without Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum, but DJ Mbenga was plenty healthy.

The third-string center had seven blocked shots, and the Lakers defeated the Denver Nuggets, 106-89, in an exhibition game Thursday at the Honda Center.

Bynum was out because of a strained rotator cuff in his right shoulder, and Gasol was out because of a strained right hamstring, forcing Coach Phil Jackson to start Mbenga to counteract physical Denver center Nene.

It definitely worked.

In addition to his blocked shots, Mbenga outscored Nene, 8-3.

Gasol will also sit out Friday's rematch against the Nuggets in San Diego. In fact, he might miss the season opener Tuesday against the Clippers, Jackson said.

Kobe Bryant had 23 points and Lamar Odom had 17 for the Lakers, who improved to 6-1 in exhibition play. Denver forward Carmelo Anthony had 28 points.

-- Mike Bresnahan

Photo: Lakers forward Lamar Odom challenges the shot of Nuggets guard J.R. Smith during Thursday night's exhibition game at the Honda Center. Credit: Francis Specker / Associated Press