In the second quarter, the Lakers' strategy to catch up wasn't necessarily wrong, but they were a bit too hasty, and the play on the perimeter became increasingly erratic. The running tactics centered around Jide began to crumble.
Without effective support from the outside line, the Lakers gradually fell into a tough battle. Although the score remained close, it was a painful struggle, lacking fluency.
Finally enduring until the end of the first half, the Lakers were still trailing the Trail Blazers by 6 points. It seemed the Blazers were much more at ease, gliding along the right track.
The Lakers, on the other hand, played chaotically, with the pressure of turning the game around in the third quarter resting entirely on O'Neal's shoulders.
In the first half, he conserved energy and reduced one-on-ones precisely to recharge for the third quarter and strive for a comeback.
