Lakers take Game 1 over Warriors behind Anthony Davis’ big night
SAN FRANCISCO — The Lakers beat the Golden State Warriors 117-112 on Tuesday to take an early 1-0 series lead behind Anthony Davis’ 30 and 23 performance.
After a 14-0 Warriors run and the crowd on their side, it looked like one of those gut-wrenching Golden State comebacks as Stephen Curry tied it up at 112 with 1:37 seconds to go.
Following Curry’s three-pointer, the Lakers responded quickly with a quick bucket, followed by a block, to maintain their lead. The game’s outcome was ultimately determined by Jordan Poole’s deep three-point attempt, which clanked off the iron and ensured the Lakers’ victory.
Despite being outscored 21-6 in three-pointers by Golden State, the Lakers’ victory hinged on their success in the paint and drawing fouls. The Lakers tallied 25 free throws compared to the Warriors’ 5 and earned 54 points in the paint versus the Warriors’ 28.
Anthony Davis was the first Laker player since Shaquille O’Neal in 2004 to have a 30-point, 20-rebound playoff game, showcasing his dominance in Game 1’s win.
“He’s playing like the top 5 NBA player that he is,” said head coach Darvin Ham of Davis.
Davis finished with 30 points on 11-for-19 (57.8%) shooting from the field, notching 23 rebounds, five assists, and four blocks in 43 minutes.
LeBron James gave the highest praise to Davis after the game, comparing his status to some of the Lakers' big men legends and saying his jersey will be in the Lakers rafters in the future.
“The No. 3 will be up there in the rafter. He continues to show why he’s one of the most dynamic players in the league,” said LeBron.
In 40 minutes of action, LeBron finished with a double-double of 22 points and 11 rebounds, adding four assists and three blocks.
D’Angelo Russell and Dennis Schröder were the unspoken difference makers in Game 1’s win, with the pair combining for 38 points with 19 points apiece.
"We were locked in for 48 minutes, which allowed us to get the win," said Russell.
Jarred Vanderbilt took on one of the NBA’s toughest assignments by trying to guard Steph Curry, picking him up 92 feet from start to finish while holding his own at times with some terrific on-ball defense. Ultimately, Steph got the best of Vando and the rest of the Lakers unit with some tough, contested threes, which is a sign of what’s coming in this series.
"I want those types of assignments. I feel like that's how I can impact this team," said Vando on guarding Curry.
Game 2 will remain in San Francisco on Thursday at 6:00 p.m. on ESPN.
