The Lakers were under a lot of pressure following their poor series opener loss. A team used to competing for championships would have been dangerously condemned if they had started 0–2 on their way to Minnesota. The squad entered the second game with urgency, character, and a very clear strategy: win at all costs. Luka Doncic was the face of a new era in Los Angeles.
And they responded. The Angelenos imposed their conditions from the opening jump, dominating the first quarter with authority (34-15) and never letting go of the lead. Doncic, with 31 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists, was the spark that ignited the Crypto Arena. With this 94-85 victory, the Lakers tied the series and took a breather before traveling to Minneapolis for what promises to be a war.
