It would have been a shame for the Lakers to lose Game 1… Because Anthony Davis’ performance deserved to be highlighted in a victory, like Stephen Curry’s 50 points in Game 7 against the Kings. Already very good against the Grizzlies, the interior of the Lakers signs one of his best career matches with… 30 points, 23 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 blocks in the victory of the Lakers! At 11 of 19 on shots, with an 8 of 8 on free throws. Only Tim Duncan had signed such stats in the history of the playoffs, and he joins three legends of the Lakers with this 30/20: Wilt Chamberlain, Elgin Baylor and Shaquille O’Neal.
“It’s a monstrous performance, but he does exactly what is expected of him. It’s a performance worthy of one of the top five NBA players, and that’s what he is.” summarizes Darvin Ham.
His first half is simply exceptional, and even if he sees the ball less in the 2nd half, with Draymond Green on his back, he still weighs on the rebound and on the block. It is he who covers the “floater” of Stephen Curry in the “money time”.
Too smart and mobile for Kevon Looney
But this first half will be remembered by Lakers fans because it was he who saved his team from sinking early in the game. He has Kevon Looney on his back, and he traps him playing 4-5 yards. The Warriors pivot is reluctant to come out, and Davis can start his festival, and especially bring the Lakers back into contact. The hard part is done, and against Looney, Davis will sign an 8 of 12 on shots. Overall, Davis is 7 of 7 on shots when unmarked.
The 4th quarter will be more complicated, especially when Steve Kerr goes into the zone, but his activity will not decrease, and his mere presence in the heart of the racket will force the Warriors to turn back when going to the circle. On arrival, the Lakers snatch this victory, and especially the advantage of the field.
“We knew we could win here. The staff worked all night, and that boosts confidence.” reacts Davis about this victory at Chase Center. “But we haven’t done anything yet. It’s just one game. We know what they are capable of doing. They were down 2-0, and they led 3-2. »
For Davis, the Warriors’ game is ” controlled chaos“, and he won by knockout
