Lakers-Jazz: Game Two Analysis

Just hours before game two, some thoughts on what both L.A and Utah need to win this game.

The pressure is on L.A to win on its home court, meaning the Jazz just need to come out playing their game.

The Lakers, being 5-0 in the playoffs thus far, need to resist becoming lackadaisical, settling for jump shots, and playing porous defense.

This starts and ends with the MVP, Kobe Bryant. He must continue to play extremely aggressively, taking the physical punishment, and the free points that come when playing against the most foul-happy team in the NBA.

This, obviously, was key in L.A's first win.

Look for Gasol to be more active in game two on both ends of the court and the boards.

Pau did an excellent job rotating as D-Will was filtered to him by his primary defender, Fisher. He did a great job of contesting and blocking shots and running shooters off the 3-point line.

Odom, whose versatility could help make sure Okur doesn't have a big 3-point shooting night, could see more time on the seven-footer. 

This means Odom must do a great job being in position for rebounds, since Okur had 19 in game one. He should not reach these rebounding numbers again in the series if L.A. doesn't want to be upset.

The Jazz did plenty well in game one, but lost due to Bryant's continued stint on the charity stripe.

They aren't a very good road team and need to continue finding ways to execute the aggressive Sloan defense and precise cutting offense.

Playing defense without fouling is key.

Minus an awful second quarter, Utah easily could have won game one. Coming back from a 19-point deficit is just too physically taxing and very hard to continue as the game winds down. This especially is true when going against the best closer in the game, KB24.

The Lakers team defense has become above average, having long, quick defenders and they seem to have found a defensive identity.

The Lakers defense’s one downfall is physicality, which Utah possesses and must look to exploit.

D-Will should have a bounce back game, but probably won't have huge numbers this series since Derek Fisher matches up well against him. Fisher isn't quick but is very strong, which is could negate Williams's strength.

The two teams are very well coached, and match up well against each other. L.A could come out slow to start, but should take this one on their home court. 

In the end, it comes down to execution and determination. 

Lakers win game two.