翻译：松爷
Three keys to Jazz-Lakers series
May 1st, 2010, 5:36 pm · Post a Comment · posted by KEVIN DING, OCREGISTER.COM
For the comprehensive analysis of the Jazz-Lakers playoff series in a position-by-position breakdown, click here.
For the thumbnail of three keys to the series, here you go …
1) Startin’ Something: The Jazz has lost 14 consecutive games to the Lakers at Staples Center and usually by the same set program: The Lakers jump out to an early lead, and the Jazz chase and chase but never win. Utah is determined to start faster and sharper with better shot selection this series. The Lakers, however, executed very well to start their games last round against Oklahoma City and can seize upon a similar size advantage vs. Utah.
2) Ample Turnovers: Utah has a powerful offense that was fourth-best in the NBA in scoring but fifth-worst in turnovers. The Lakers are sixth-best in not turning the ball over and usually even more careful in the postseason. For the Jazz to make this a series, Deron Williams will have to pile up assists but not turnovers; Williams (3.3 per game) had the sixth-most in the league, and Kobe Bryant (3.2) had the 11th most. If Utah can keep it clean, its offensive execution and high shooting rates will test the Lakers.
3) What’s Kobe Doing: Kobe Bryant’s sore right knee makes it hard to predict how explosive he can be, especially in getting to the hoop against a Utah team that seemingly lacks the defenders to stay with him. Bryant hit 3 of 4 shots from 3-point range in the Game 6 clincher in Oklahoma City and finished with 32 points after missing his last shot that needed Pau Gasol’s tip-in help. He is not 100 percent, but the three days off between Games 2 and 3 might freshen him up to be sharp for the games in Utah.
