That was prevalent at a more granular level within the Western Conference semifinals. Minnesota was not picked by many to down the defending champs in Denver, but then the Wolves took Game 1. Gobert’s absence in Game 2 made Minnesota a heavy underdog again, and the Wolves ran roughshod over the Nuggets.

From limiting Minnesota’s offensive rebounds and getting back in transition to better spacing on offense, the Lakers know what it should look like when they are playing their best.

Going up against Dončić, James and Reaves, a crafty shot creator in his own right, in clutch time is a nightmare scenario for the Wolves. Those players are going to get good looks most times down the floor, especially from Dončić, who just has not been bothered by ace perimeter defender Jaden McDaniels.