But the defending champs are once again perceived as a lingering riddle, with the annoying up and down meltdowns at critical situations.
Perhaps we spoke too quickly, without acknowledging the hottest team in the Western Conference. All of a sudden, the Suns are seemingly the team to beat. They are a franchise filled with depth, tremendous size, awareness, and poise.
At some moments, the Lakers were categorized as the elite franchise of the postseason, bound to win back-to-back titles.
Now, the defending champs are on the brink of elimination. The Suns appear hungrier, potent, and more determined than Los Angeles.
The Lakers were beat down by the Suns, dismantled by an aggressive and solid bench. Phoenix's entire second unit made the Lakers seem inferior.
When Team Hollywood is outplayed, out-hustled, and out-rebounded, the first notion that comes to mind is that they are doomed at repeating glory. It seems impossible to sustain back-to-back chatter when the Suns 2-3 zone defense disintegrates the Lakers soft, baffled offense.
Notice the Lakers haven’t executed or attacked the rim, despite possessing a seven-foot tandem in an uninspiring front court.
Meanwhile, as the Lakers have suddenly crumbled, the Suns are blazing. Phoenix realizes they can beat the Lakers. They are now two wins away from immortality, and an NBA Finals appearance.
The Suns are clear evidence that a series isn’t over until a team wins four games in the best-of-seven series. Phoenix could be on the verge of capping a bizarre upset in the NBA postseason.
They could break the hearts of Lakers fans dreaming of a Lakers-Celtics rematch.
Game five could dictate the Lakers fate, and add fu...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
