Tonight’s game vs. the Miami Heat may be the most important game of this season. Yes, the Lakers have had some obstacles to overcome this year, you know them all: two coaches, two new offenses, injuries, etc.
All the above would slow any team, but, there are no excuses; they still have to overcome them.
The Lakers seem to be finally healthy and making some progress, but still need consistent defense and bench play because Miami will test the Lakers in all areas.
The Lakers must stop Miami’s transition game. With the ball in LeBron’s hands, it's like a Volkswagen coming at you full speed; so the Lakers must defend by committee- build a wall early to protect from easy dunks and layups. Defensive transition is a must tonight. And then there’s the X factor, Dwyane Wade who is tough as nails and has the ability to dominate when called upon.
Bosh, Allen, Lewis and the rest of the Heat will present problems if the Lakers don’t come with a “Defensive State of Mind”. The Lakers bench must contribute in a big way. I hope Jamison gets over 20 minutes; Lakers need his points and experience. Lakers need Meeks hustle on D and for him to knock down 3’s. To make a long story short, the Lakers need Lots of Attitude to go along with their improved play.
The time is now! Not tomorrow, not the next game, but tonight. The Lakers have to win 3 out of 4 games the rest of the season to make the playoffs. Why not start with this pivotal game tonight against the defending champs?
- Big Game
Big Game James Worthy is an NCAA champ, 3-time NBA champ and an MVP with the Los Angeles Lakers, a hall of famer, philanthropist and an Analyst for Time Warner Cable SportsNet. For more information or to contact Big Game for an appearance visit www.jamesworthy42.com/contact.
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