Bulls' Super Formation Change, Malone at Center!

When O'Neal was relentlessly double-teamed in the low post by Duncan and Robinson, the twin towers, he no longer forced up shots as he had before. Instead, he began kicking the ball out to the perimeter more often.

After struggling to adjust early on, Kobe also began to show the potential of a true superstar.

Using his fluid footwork and changes of pace, he repeatedly shook free of defenders. His mid-range jumpers off the catch and his drives and kick-outs were handled to perfection.

The game was exceptionally tight, with the score seesawing back and forth as the two sides battled all the way to the final moments.

In the clutch, Kobe faced Elliott's defense and buried a signature fadeaway jumper, giving the Lakers a two-point lead.

On the Spurs' final possession, Tim Duncan's hook shot under the basket rimmed out under O'Neal's heavy contest, and the Lakers secured the rebound.

In the end, the Lakers narrowly defeated the Spurs 98:96 at home, taking a 2:1 series lead.

Although O'Neal did not score much, he dished out 7 assists and got the entire team involved. Kobe, meanwhile, scored a game-high 32 points and took over in crunch time.

After the game, the tide of public opinion subtly shifted once again.

In TNT's studio, Kenny Smith said, "The Spurs' defensive strategy is way too rigid! They gave the Lakers too many opportunities on the perimeter. Kobe is growing into a real clutch player."

Charles Barkley said bluntly, "I told you a long time ago, the OK Duo is unstoppable! As long as those two don't feud with each other, nobody can stop them. Looks like we might very well see the Knicks and Lakers meet in the Finals again!"

ESPN also published a commentary piece titled <The Purple and Gold Dynasty