Los Angeles Lakers defeat Atlanta Hawks 104-80: Second Half Analysis
Third Quarter Recap
Leading by 11 points at half time, the Los Angeles Lakers controlled every aspect of the third quarter by limiting turnovers, making shots and playing some tenacious defence. On the other hand, the Atlanta Hawks continued to play sloppy basketball, as they
got a little bit loose around the mid-way point of the quarter, turning the ball over and missing shots.
Los Angeles got a nice lift from Pau Gasol and Kobe Bryant, who allowed them to extend their lead to 70-50 with two minutes remaining in the quarter. The Hawks however, continued to struggle with turnovers and let their shooting percentage dip heavily in
the quarter, allowing the Lakers to go on a 5-2 run to take a 75-52 advantage.
Los Angeles got big time free throws from guard Steve Blake to stretch their lead to 80-54, heading into the fourth quarter.
Fourth Quarter Recap
Trailing by 26 points after three quarters, the Hawks fought back late in the game, as they recovered from their mistakes in the fourth by turning up their defensive intensity again and continuing their balanced scoring attack. However, the Lakers also continued
to play well defensively, and did not allow the Atlanta Hawks to get within striking distance.
Atlanta Guard Jeff Teague hit a pair of free throws at the start of the fourth quarter to cut the deficit to 83-58. Gasol quickly made a three-pointer from the corner and then stole the ball from guard-forward Maurice Evans, made the basket and got fouled
to push the lead back to 23 with just over three minutes left to play. Los Angeles forward Derrick Caracter had a hook shot in the last second to seal the home victory for the Lakers at 104-80.
Player of the Game: Kobe Bryant led the Los Angeles Lakers with a sublime performance on the night. In 36 minutes on the court, Kobe put up a game-high 20 points, five assists and three rebounds for Los Angeles, who successfully snapped
a three-game losing streak.
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