The Lakers took the lead in the first quarter this time, and it really makes people wonder if they can end the heart-wrenching 11-game losing streak this time? In this crucial fourth game, the Lakers showed their fighting spirit and determination, but the real key may still be hidden in the data posted by those experts.
As soon as the game started, it felt like this was no ordinary playoff game, it was a battle of dignity and honor. The Lakers gave the Nuggets a kick-and-go as if they had been beaten up, and they led 28-23 at the end of the first quarter. Such a start is really refreshing, as if seeing the dawn of victory.
Let's talk about the protagonists on the field. First of all, Russell, who missed all 7 three-point shots in the previous game, but this time he hit head-on and scored a breakthrough layup, which felt like a long drought and rain, which made people feel relieved for him. Then there is the "little emperor" James, this guy is a must when he plays with his back to his back, shaking Murray to the ground, and scoring a layup. Let's look at Davis, this guy is against Jokic, and the layup is not only accurate, but also a little murderous, as if to say, "This is my territory!"
Although the Nuggets were passive for a while, their counterattack was also quick and sharp. Porter Jr.'s three-point shot was like a rainbow through the sun, narrowing the gap in one fell swoop. Jokic, not to be outdone, singled Davis under the basket, and the ball was squeezed in. These moments on the field are simply more exciting than watching blockbusters.
However, in the end, the key to the Lakers' victory or defeat is the three-point shot. In the playoffs, the Lakers shot only 35.3 percent of their open three-point shooting, and the big open three-point shooting rate was as low as 25.6 percent. This data is like a double-edged sword, with both hope and helplessness.
The expectations and pressures of fans can be seen everywhere, just like "Lakers in 7" on the national hot search. Every Lakers fan doesn't want to see them swept by the Nuggets again, and that would be an unacceptable outcome. So, every player knows that they are not just playing for themselves, but also for those die-hard fans and the never-say-die Lakers spirit.
The performance in the first quarter is just the beginning, and the Lakers need to continue that momentum and need every player to step up and play their best. They need to show that it's not just about winning or losing a game, it's about mentality, it's about teamwork, it's about perseverance.
In short, this competition is not only a competition of skills, but also a contest of will. It remains to be seen if the Lakers can break that spell and win this game. And the key to victory revealed by the data could be the turning point that changed the entire series. Lakers, come on!