In the following season, the Lakers won 26 of their first 39 games,[203] but lost 27 of their last 43—including seven in a row at one point—to finish 42–40.[203] They were eliminated in the first round by Phoenix again.[203] Frustrated by the team's inability to advance in the playoffs, Bryant demanded to be traded in the off-season.[204] Buss initially agreed to seek a trade,[205] but also worked to try to change Bryant's mind.[206]