On a night where LeBron shot under 32% from the field, and D’Angelo Russell sank only a single three pointer, it was an Anthony Davis double-double that powered the Los Angeles Lakers past the Golden State Warriors in Game 1 of the Western Conference Semi Finals. With 30 points and an astounding 23 rebounds from AD, the Lakers were able to hold off Golden State despite an abysmal performance from behind the arc and three Warriors over 20 points.
Early in the first quarter the -4.5 point spread in favor of the Warriors appeared spot on as they took a quick 12-4 lead on their home court, but it would be a back and forth affair from then on. Per usual, The Splash Brothers did the heavy lifting for their side combining for 52, but it just wasn’t enough to overcome the plethora of weapons in purple and gold as they fell 112-117 in regulation. Poole had a chance to tie in the final 10 seconds of the fourth, but his three pointer from downtown Oakland bounced off the iron.
Big time buckets from up and down the Lakers roster is the reason they’re still hooping in May. A turbulent regular season and changing roster really came together in their series against Memphis and looked scary at times, but if there is one thing we know about Steph Curry, it’s that a 50-burger is always lurking around the corner. He’s as competitive as it gets and won’t take a loss to LeBron in the playoffs well. I expect fireworks from him in Game 2, and a bounce back from the Warriors. This series will not be won easily.
They’re back at it for Game 2 on May 5, and we will see if another 44 minute dose of nine eyebrows has the same effect, or if the Chef has something else cooking.