The Lakers are a finesse team. The Lakers don’t like to mix it up. This is what was being said before the series and after game 1. Yes, the Lakers were out rebounded significantly in game one but now the Lakers had to prove they could hang with the so called big boys on the boards in game 2. The prognosticators, nay sayers and even some of the Lakers were calling Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol soft. Really? So what happens? Lamar (19 points, 16 rebounds) and Pau (20 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 5 blocks) had monster games. So much for them being soft.
Sure the Lakers were out rebounded, had 15 turnovers compared to 10 for the Jazz, and shot 27 more free throws but the Lakers shot 57% from the field, while the Jazz shot 44%. You do the math. The Lakers offense was doing what it wanted to do offensively. The Jazz defense was being carved up by the Lakers precision passing. Again, the Jazz physical style of play got them into foul trouble. Let’s not forget that they tend to foul more than any other team in the league. I am still trying to figure out why time and time again, Carlos Boozer will push in the back right front of the ref. He said that he has played this way all season but why is it that he can’t adjust. He must know that basketball is a game of adjustments, so instead of pushing someone out of the way to get a rebound, maybe he should actually get himself in actual position to get the rebound. It’s just a thought.
Can we please talk about the defense that Derek Fisher played on Deron Williams? It was superb. Sure Deron got off in the fourth but by then, it was too little too late, so the stat sheet won’t reflect how great Derek played on defense. The Lakers’ defense as a whole has been able to keep the Jazz’ offense in check. Boozer continues to struggle from the field, Deron Williams has been pretty much stymied and Kyle Korver got a few baskets. The only bright spot for the Jazz yesterday was the play of Paul Milsap. If it wasn’t for his offensive and ability to get rebounds, the game would have been a blow out.
As usual, the Jazz made a run but the Lakers were able to counter, thanks to Derek Fisher. These next two games are crucial for both teams. Basically, the Jazz have to win four out of the next five, which is next to impossible and the Lakers need to win the next two on the Jazz’ home court. I know you are asking, why the Lakers need to win the next two, because heck we are 2-0, right. Well, I don’t believe in letting down just because you are ahead 2-0. The Lakers need to go for the jugular and take the Jazz out. They shouldn’t give them any ray of hope. Again, winning in Salt Lake is going to be a huge task but it can be done. Not only have the Lakers proven they are physically tough, but they are mentally tough. The Lakers aren’t the Houston Rockets. The Jazz should be worried.
Miscellaneous: Kobe was Kobe. There was no let down after the MVP presentation. The Lakers had five players in double figures. The Jazz had seven players in double figures. Early in the game, Jerry Sloan received a technical. Andrew Bynum is contemplating knee surgery in three or four weeks. Bynum is looking to get another opinion.
