The San Antonio Spurs suited up in fiesta colors to face off against the Los Angeles Lakers. This time the Spurs have the home-court advantage as the game took place at the AT&T center. San Antonio looked to gain a win over the LA team after falling to them in a 92-123 loss. Even though a win was not in their favor they still showed resilience against their competitor. The Spurs finished this second round against LA with a 94-105 loss.
Bad Habits Die Hard
There seems to be a new theme surrounding the Spurs. The continual slow starts of a power performance are keeping them in the box of playing catch-up to opponents in the second half. The Lakers were able to play to their strengths in the paint and acquire a double-digit lead within the first five minutes of the game. A 10-point gap stood firm as if there was a wall keeping the Spurs from advancing to a single-digit brawl.
Keldon Johnsons’ Redemption Moment
Something clicked for the Spurs towards the latter end of the third, particularly with Keldon Johnson. Johnson has seemed to be stuck in a shooting slump that began during their tour of the west coast matches.
However, last night after downing a 26-foot three-pointer he went on to play with more zeal reminding the audience of the “KJ” that played with so much animation. He went from a standstill of three points in the first half to 10 by the third. Johnson finished tonight, still under his usual average, with 15 points, nine rebounds, and two assists.
Sochan and Vassell Lead by Example
Two top performers of the night were Jeremy Sochan and Devin Vassell. Sochan and Vassell were two players whose engines started early on. Sochan showed no intimidation going up against Lebron James. Vassell showed off more of his ability to create his own shot and space on the floor to complete and play.
Both showed aggression charging too, and fighting under the basket ultimately leading them to the free-throw line. Sochan filled his stat line with 13 points, nine rebounds, five assists, four steals, and one block. Vassell maintained his spot as the leading scorer with 18 points along with six rebounds, three assists, and a steal.
Third Times The Charm For The Spurs Against The Lakers?
The Lakers stayed the night in San Antonio and will meet the Spurs again for the third battle on their home court. Will this be a 3-0 sweep for Los Angeles or can the Spurs pull off a win by applying better habits earlier in the game?
