The Lakers have shown a drastic improvement in Game 2 from what fans saw in Game 1. They played with more purpose tonight and have had the Phoenix Suns trailing them throughout. After their loss in the first game, fans and analysts worried about whether they were going to make it out of the first round itself. However, one can finally see the title favorites back in some form, and they have successfully tied the series.
The Phoenix Suns‘ have had incredible form throughout the regular season. So when they were pitted against the purple and gold, everyone thought the Lakers would be doomed. But LeBron James and Co. finally have taken matters into their own hands and have finished this game 109-102.
From a messy lineup and rotation, and not grabbing rebounds, to a lousy defense against the unstoppable Devin Booker and poor scoring from Anthony Davis, the Lakers had it all wrong in the first game. However, they had changed drastically in Game 2. This is a huge relief to most as the Lakers just have to maintain this momentum now. In fact, fans and others celebrated this significant win and expressed themselves on Twitter.
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What did the Lakers do to bag this win?
The Lakers were outscored very quickly in the first game. While this was partly because of them not being able to get the rebounds, their defense also wasn’t tight enough to contain Booker. That is why he finished with 34 points to his name. However, the Lakers had a much more aggressive defense this time.
Rather than trying to score, LeBron and AD focused on doing the playmaking for the team. But their role players were seen struggling all night. As per Mike Trudell, “KCP, Kuzma, Caruso, THT, and Matthews are a combined 0 for 11 from the field.”
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Role players that usually come through for LAL are struggling tonight.
KCP, Kuzma, Caruso, THT and Matthews are a combined 0 for 11 from the field.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) May 26, 2021
Some mistakes on the Suns’ side also contributed to this win. DeAndre Ayton was dominant just like in the last game but Chris Paul looked hurt and was trying to keep it together. Not only did they take a lot of bad shots, but Booker also got a lot of fouls.
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With the series tied, it has put a lot of pressure on the Suns. Will they succumb to it or deprive the Lakers from getting their second straight title?
READ MORE: WATCH: Lakers’ Anthony Davis Does Bruce Lee-Style Kick And Gets Early Flagrant Foul Against Suns