Part 2/10:
Critics have long pointed to the Lakers’ roster issues, and this game only magnified those concerns. The team struggled to show any athleticism or defensive prowess against the Mavericks. Jason Kidd's coaching strategy worked wonders as the Mavericks effectively stifled the Lakers’ attempts at scoring. The Lakers’ inability to keep opponents in front of them loomed large during the game, reaffirming a narrative that the team has become a shadow of its former self.