The Lakers looked solid out there. There was ball movement, they played hard on defense, they hustled (remember that Tauren Prince hustle in crunch time chasing after the ball after the Blazers had given up chasing after it?), etc.
Reaves looked solid. Hopefully he’s out of his slump. He shot well and kept the ball moving. DLo didn’t shoot well but he got 11 assists.
I hate to say this but I think Darvin Ham (not calling him Darvin Hamas. For now.) coached a good game. So that leaves LeBron. Is he too controlling that’s why the Lakers have struggled prior to this game?
I do think there is a psychological element, people give a little less effort when they know one of the goats is on the floor and can cover them with a spectacular play, and give a little more effort when they have to cover for him. I just hope it can translate to minutes he’s on the bench in games he plays.