Los Angeles (Lakers) at San Antonio Spurs – April 21, 2013
The Summary: With Kobe Bryant out, it’s hard to see the Lakers making it past the first round, even with stellar performances from Pau and Dwight once in a while; it won’t be the Lakers seeing Denver in round two. The Lakers twin tower combined for 36 points and 31 rebounds in their loss but you saw a glimpse of what Dwight Howard did when he was in Orlando and if he continues this run with Pau, they might have a chance to even the series. Although both players had good performances, the Spurs never let go of the lead after the two minute mark of the game, going on to hold off any runs the Lakers held. The Spurs kept onto the lead with Manu’s great shooting performance, going for 18 points likewise with Tony Parker, while Duncan added 17. Kobe Bryant tweeted during the game, yelling somewhat at Pau and talking about the post. Pau Gasol took advantage of Matt Bonner who lacks defensive presence and scored easily over him with his long frame. Dwight did the same, beating his defender in the paint and getting many passes from Pau Gasol for an easy jam. A few passes went awry – 6 turnovers for Pau – and lead to fourteen points for the Spurs. The game could have been different with Kobe but, I still believe there’s not a chance for the Lakers to win this series, with or without Bryant.
How Los Angeles Can Improve: 3-point shooting needs a big bump, going 20% from behind the arc is something that won’t help the team win; Steve Blake and World Peace have to connect on those open 3’s. The bench has to step-up and improve their play whether that means shooting or creating shots for other players, something has to happen with them. Antawn Jamison had a terrible game and needs to get back into how he was helping in the regular season. Though he was getting more open shots with Kobe on the court, he still has to create his own shot, just try and drive and be more aggressive, it can help a lot even if you aren’t scoring, just need to have the Spurs be aware he can makes buckets.
After Game One Series Prediction: Spurs in 5. Kobe’s not there and Pau and Dwight won’t take them to any glory-land. They might get a win in Staples Center but really, it’s not surprising that they won’t win.
-LefttoWrite
