Defence the best form of attack for the Lakers
Regardless of what they go on to achieve this season, the Los Angeles Lakers support can be mightily proud of their defence. Results from the regular season could have been better; there’s certainly no disputing that, but the Lakers finished with the number one ranked defence. But there can be no pause for congratulations, and there’s unlikely to be too much in the way of back-slapping going on in the locker room.
Lakers, one of the most famous names in the NBA, have a job to do, and the players must look forward, keeping their minds on the task at hand. The coaching staff know the defence pulled the team out of a hole on more than a few occasions this season, making up for the shot-shy attack. But that same backline must now roll up their sleeves and do it all again.
Their work isn’t done yet. The important job is only just beginning. Players who have worked hard and put their bodies on the line for the team’s cause must dust themselves off and come again. Are they ready? Will they get their second win in time?
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LA do things the hard way
If there are to be reasons for those close to the Los Angeles Lakers cause to cheer in the coming weeks, things will have to be done the hard way. Some fans may even ask if there is ever any other route for the team. Experiences supporters have watched LA pull it out the bag multiple times in the past.
The Lakers, regardless of the players on the court, seem to perform better as underdogs. They are often stuck with the outsiders tag after failing to live up to their promise, however, That was never more evident than the team’s recent win over the Houston Rockets. They left it late to overcome the Rockets, having to dig deep to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. It was a crucial win, too, one the players, coaching staff, and fans hoped would help them swerve the Play-In Tournament in the Western Conference.
Los Angeles got the win they craved, but only just. The final score that night read Houston 122-124 LA. There was more than a few nervy moments, and that trustworthy defence was called into action more times than the bench cares to remember, but in some games, the result is far more important than the performance. The win over Houston was undoubtedly one of those occasions.
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Defence a thankless task
The rearguard must stand up to be counted once again. Being a defensive player in the NBA is a thankless task. Go above and beyond to keep the opposition out, and it’s reported as simply doing your job. Make a mistake, and the sporting press will be quick to stick the boot in, blaming them for defeat. At the opposite end of the court, an attacking player could have a quiet game, failing to make an impression. But if they come up with one sparkling moment, one three-pointer or one highlight-reel worthy dunk, it’s all rave reviews.
There’s no sympathy given, and none asked, certainly not by the Lakers defence. They now focus on the upcoming match against the Golden State Warriors in a much-anticipated play-in tournament game. The Warriors’ attack boasts star player Stephen Curry who stands out as the league’s leading scorer. He’s an important player for his team, and how he performs here could prove the difference between victory and defeat for the Warriors.
Curry will be eager to test himself against the Lakers defence. The highest-scoring player against the strongest defence. It’s an interesting side story of what is one of the biggest games in the team’s season.
The Lakers defence will be confident in their ability to keep Curry and co at bay, while the leading scorer will be desperate to get out and prove himself against the best in the business. He has been described as the best shooter to have ever played the game. Quite a weight on his shoulders, but the sharpshooter has already shown he can carry it.
Being the best defence or leading scorer is great, but can they do it when it matters on the big occasion?