Tuesday night, the Lakers managed the huge performance to win Game 1 on the floor of Golden State. However, Steve Kerr’s men had before the meeting a record of 35 wins for only 9 defeats at home in 44 games played this season, playoffs included. But Los Angeles was able to count on a monumental Anthony Davis, author of 30 points and 23 rebounds!
If the offensive aspect was rather well managed by LeBron James’ teammates, the other question was the defense, especially on Stephen Curry. It is true that the Lakers have been defending very well for a while, but defending against an offense like Golden State, which is always on the move, is a whole different story.
Despite this, the Angelinos succeeded in their mission: to contain Stephen Curry. The double MVP only shot 10/24 over the entire match. Darvin Ham sent two soldiers for this task: Jarred Vanderbilt and Dennis Schröder. Two different profiles defensively, which managed to limit the arsonist of the Warriors. A mission that nevertheless requires a colossal effort throughout a match.
“I’m ready to do whatever it takes to win, but it’s really, really difficult” explains Dennis Schröder. “Steph is probably the best in terms of physical condition in the sport in general, because he runs for 23 seconds and always takes the shot. Just being next to him when he catches the ball makes it really, really difficult. I might have to put myself on an IV tonight.”.
Evening X factor
When the Lakers had chosen to explode their roster at the trade deadline, Dennis Schröder was one of the lucky survivors. The main reason he’s still around is his defensive energy, especially his ability to track and stick fast playmakers/backs for most of the game.
The German proved it from the start of the second quarter, with a midrange shot on the head of Stephen Curry, followed in the wake of an interception on the Warriors leader concluded by a lay-up.
“Dennis was huge” said Darvin Ham. “He’s a two-way player. He gives his all on both sides of the pitch.”.
The final copy is very satisfactory since he also weighed offensively with 19 points at 5/10 shooting in 31 minutes. He even managed the two decisive free throws that sealed the victory of the Lakers.
“That’s why we wanted him on our team. We know how he plays, especially in the big moments.” concluded the Lakers coach. “He is not afraid of what is at stake, and he asks to have the ball in his hands and our guys trust him in these situations”.
