"Defense! Defense!"
That three-pointer was a huge boost to morale, and the home fans began cheering for their team.
Amid the cheers, the Pelicans shut down the Lakers' offense again, and Davis secured the Defensive Rebound.
The Pelicans pushed into the frontcourt and set up their half-court offense, with Tang Tian driving while holding the ball.
The Lakers' defensive strategy remained the same as before, spreading out wide.
Tang Tian used Flowery Butterfly Steps to get past Middleton, then pulled up near the free-throw line.
This possession felt familiar. The Pelicans had run the exact same play on their first offensive possession of the second half.
Swish!
But this time was different. Tang Tian's shot did not miss, and the ball dropped cleanly through the net.
Tang Tian had made two straight shots. Including his earlier free throws, he had scored 7 Consecutive points!
Vogel reached out and rubbed his face hard.
The Pelicans had found their rhythm from outside, and Tang Tian had regained his touch. The Lakers were really in trouble now.
It was the same situation as their first matchup of the season. Their defense could not stop them, so they could only pin their hopes on their offense.
But on the next possession, the Lakers still failed to score in the frontcourt!
The Pelicans gained momentum with the fans cheering them on and played defense beyond their usual level.
And this time, Gasol came down with the rebound.
Gasol showed off his passing touch and fired a Long pass straight downcourt.
Tang Tian caught the ball and charged into the frontcourt. He rose into the air against Simmons and slammed the ball viciously through the hoop.
Simmons tried to block it, but not only did he fail, the referee also called a foul on him!
It