I just had a feeling this would blow up in their face. They were so nonchalant about the Kings, laughing at them, mocking them, blowing them off, and now look what is happening. I am curious though, does this mean the Kings have "turned it on", or does it mean the Lakers have "turned it off"? heh. I just enjoy watching Phil Jackson in misery. I like Shaq, and I don't have a problem with Kobe, but Phil Jackson is so smug. All I know is that the Kings don't fear them, and the Kings give them so many match-up problems it's scary. And how ironic, the Lakers are beat on a near last second shot!
The Kings needed to win a game this way. It was terrible for my nerves, but IMO, it's better for them to win a one point close game than a 15 point blowout. The Kings beat the Lakers at their own game-- execution down the stretch in the fourth quarter. I don't think the Kings will blow out the Lakers in an elimination game... to knock them out, they're going to have to beat them in the pressure moments. This game has to be huge for their confidence.
The Lakers haven't screwed around. I remember Shaq saying over 1 month ago "every game is a home game for us except at Sacremento" (essentially saying that is the only game they go into knowing they might not be able to turn it on at any time and get the W). Sac has been the best team all year, the Lakers always knew they were in a fight. Sac is better and more consistent through the top 8-9 guys with the exception of Shaq and Kobe. Those two are doing their darndest and making a great series by their great play, but with Shaq fighting off injuries it is just real tough for them to do it alone. Unless Fisher and Fox get really hot the Lakers are done.
