In past years, the Lakers' starting lineup had been strong, but their bench was too weak. The starters would build a lead, only for the reserves to give it right back after spending some time on the court.
This year, though the starting lineup wasn't as strong, the team basically won the scoring battle whenever the bench was on the floor.
When the starters lost ground, the reserves could make up some of the deficit, or even turn it into a lead.
When the starters built a lead, the reserves could stretch it even further.
And when the starters were tied, the reserves could break the deadlock.
There were just eight minutes left in the fourth quarter. Wang Yi came onto the court with his team trailing by five.
Even after Wang Yi entered the game, the Trail Blazers kept using off-ball double teams against him. Even when he didn't have the ball, they sent two defenders to guard him.
In short, the other players could shoot all they wanted. The Trail Blazers just wouldn't give Wang Yi a chance to shoot—or even a chance to touch the ball.
Two minutes passed, and the lead was threatening to stretch to ten again.
But just then, Danny stepped up.
With two defenders on Wang Yi, Danny found himself wide open behind the three-point line.
He seized the opportunity. As soon as he caught the ball, he rose without hesitation and let it fly. Swish! The three-pointer went in.
The Lakers cut the deficit to five.
On the other end, Yang Hanson of the Trail Blazers answered with a three-pointer.
When the Lakers attacked again, Wang Yi drew the double team, and Bryce passed the ball to Danny once more.
Danny sank another three, cutting the deficit to five again.
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