Everyone, including myself, expected an LA Lakers series ending by today. In other words, it was supposed to be a sweep, given the vast talent advantage and experience the purple-and-gold squad had over the Suns.
But the Suns were scrappy, their defense, particularly the zone, providing more problems for the Lakers than they ever thought. Now, after improving their playoff home record to 6-1 following their Game 4, series-tying 115-106 win against the Lakers, the Suns are heading back to Los Angeles at Staples Center with one thing in mind–take the series lead.
Ask Kobe Bryant about it, and surely, he’d give you a stern “no way” for a response.
And thus far, the Lakers own a 7-0 home record going into Game 5, where a win is a must for Los Angeles.
Since the Suns played the zone defense in Game 3, the Lakers were never the same again offensively.
The Suns completely outrebounded the Lakers, 51-36 as LA forward Pau Gasol was held to just five boards. Andrew Bynum contributed 12 points and eight rebounds in 24 minutes, but it’s clear he doesn’t move at his normal pace because of his ailing knee.
With a tied series, the Lakers obviously can’t think ahead of a possible Finals confrontation against their arch-nemesis Boston Celtics, who hold a commanding 3-1 lead against the Orlando Magic.
All LA needs to think of is regain the series momentum with a resounding Game 5 victory. Once momentum is gained, the Lakers can get their bearings and go for the kill in Game 6, which will be played in Phoenix’s home floor.
But that’s easier said than done.
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