The Los Angeles Lakers hit the ground running on Thursday night at Chase Center, even leading after the first 12 minutes of play.
However, they couldn’t keep that intensity going for the remainder of the contest, losing by 27 points after trailing by as many as 32.
The Golden State Warriors got everything they wanted in the restricted area after barely driving in Game 1, scoring 48 points in the paint, 13 second-chance points, and 17 fast-break points.
However, regardless of the defensive miscues and issues, LeBron James isn’t worried one bit about their ability to contain the Warriors going forward.
“We’re still the best defensive team in the league if not one of them.” @KingJames isn’t worried about the #Lakers' defense being able to contain the Warriors. pic.twitter.com/OmVwyNq2CK
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) May 5, 2023
The King reminded everyone that the Lakers are still one of the best — if not the best — defensive teams in the Association.
That’s actually a fact; they’ve been elite defensively since their roster overhaul midseason, but it’s the Warriors we’re talking about here.
There’s no such thing as stopping Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Jordan Poole; they’re going to get their points.
The Warriors shot 50% from the floor, 50% from three, and went to the line 16 times after logging a franchise-worst six free-throw attempts in Game 1.
They were more aggressive on both ends of the floor, and didn’t hesitate to attack Anthony Davis inside, even despite his elite rim protection skills.
Jarred Vanderbilt didn’t find the same success as a help-defender or with his signature closeouts, and he endured quite a beating trying to go over screens.
So, it’ll be interesting to see how Darvin Ham tweaks his defense ahead of a pivotal Game 3 on Saturday night.
NEXT: Colin Cowherd Has A Clear Opinion About Lakers' Title Chances
