Overflowing Lakes

Domination. That is the only word that properly describes Game One of the NBA Finals. From the start of the second quarter to the final horn, the Lakers dominated. Kobe Bryant could not be stopped, while Dwight Howard and the rest of the Magic couldn't get started. The Lakers doubled and triple teamed Howard only allowing him to score once from the field and did a good job closing on the Magic shooters forcing Orlando into a 30% field goal percentage. Orlando looked a bit out of sync and tentative for the most part of the game and despite the brief spark from Jameer Nelson in the second quarter were not competitive for the majority of the game. On the other hand, the Lakers displayed the intensity they have lacked for parts of the season frustrating their fans and commentators alike. Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol both defended Rashard Lewis well and pounded him in the post, the constant banging against a 7 footer and a 6-11 seemed like it took a toll on Lewis and affected his offense. If both remain aggresive and are physical with Lewis in the post, Lewis may be reduced to a nonfactor in this series. Lastly, the Magic did not seem to want the game as much as the Lakers, mainly Kobe Bryant. Furthermore, Orlando seemed to be used to playing on Pro, while the Lakers were on All-Madden, often looking confused and a bit star-struck on the big stage. At some point pride takes over, in Game 1 there wasn't an Orlando player who exhibited an attitude that said, "okay I'm tired of getting embarrassed, let's go." They all seemed content with the fact that the Lakers were owning them in the most important series of the season. Even with this win, the Lakers still don't seem satisfied. Kobe Bryant has imposed his will on this team and now every Laker seems as hungry as Kobe for a title.