This does not mean that the Lakers will be able to exploit the Suns as they did Utah though. The Lakers far too often fall into the trap of playing undisciplined ball, and that is very easy to do when you play an up-tempo team like Phoenix. If Los Angeles tries to beat Phoenix in a full-court game that requires shooting 20+ three point shots they will fall short. Unlike Utah, or even Oklahoma City, Phoenix has a good blend of young, explosive players and savvy veterans that all form together to make a formidable mix.
The recent history between the Lakers and Suns isn’t as extensive as it is between Utah and Los Angeles, but that doesn’t mean that the Lakers have forgotten about the first-round beatings Phoenix gave them back in 2006 and 07. Remembering the feeling the Lakers had after those early exits may be enough motivation to get them up and ready for the upcoming series, even though only a few core players remain from those battles.
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One of the things that many people may not understand is that a long, hard-fought series may be a good thing for the Lakers. Remember last year when the Lakers faced Denver during last year’s Conference Finals? It was a hard, physical, brutal series that left the Lakers beat up and exhausted? Well it also left the Lakers with the confidence and knowledge of what it takes to win at the highest level in the NBA.
Next: How do the Lakers make sure they’re ready for the Finals?
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