I guess it's obvious now that the other team isn't just going to let us have a procession to a coronation
We have to be able to win while not playing at our best and while they give us their best shot. I think we did that tonight, though I'm sure Indy can play better still. They turned the ball over 21 times vs our 14. But I think we can also play better, and I think we can play better for longer than they can.
More importantly I think we were able to hang in there and put ourselves in a position to win key moments to let us win the game - like pressuring Siakam to turn the ball over, and then Jrue getting the ball to JB who made a tough 3 to tie, and then Tatum overpowering TJ for an and-one and then that 3 at the top of the key after Hali was pressured to lose the ball.
The game is comprised of hundreds of those little moments and we were able to win the ones that really mattered, when they mattered. We wanted to see if they could win a close game, well they managed that at least, and while not playing as well as they could. Should also remove any illusions people have that Indy will be a pushover. They will fight, and every game will be contested, but I think we can win the 3 more we need to get to the FInals
Late
TPs for everyone!!