ll be a meaningless foul.
For example, Popovich once fouled O’Neal in the opening game on O’Neal’s birthday.
That foul shot is known to many people, but it didn’t actually send O’Neal to the free throw line, and it had little impact on the game.
This is where the Wizards are unconventional.
Of course, Carlisle had obviously considered it.
The confrontation on the field was fierce and there were a lot of fouls on both sides. The time of early and late attacks would not be too different.
Therefore, even if the assisting defender fails to commit a foul, Yao Ming can still choose to foul and complete the game.
O’Neal went to the free throw line again.
He adjusted his breathing.
This time, O’Neal played steadily and missed both free throws!
There was a burst of cheers at the scene.
O’Neal made 1 of 4 free throws in these two rounds. The Wizards’ shark-cutting tactic was very effective!
Of course, more importantly, the Wizards scored the ball again on the offensive end!
99 to 95!
Don’t underestimate this 4-1 wave, the Wizards are slowly taking the initiative in the game!
On the sidelines, Phil Jackson was deep in thought.
Carlisle’s tactics were as creative as the opening game.
Now he has to choose between replacing O’Neal to avoid being cut off again, or choosing to trust O’Neal to keep him on the court.
Choosing the former is because the Lakers’ internal strength has declined, and choosing the latter depends entirely on O’Neal’s free throw status and the Lakers’ own defense.
No matter which way they choose, the Lakers look like they’re going to suffer.
Although Carlisle is young, he is no easier to deal with than Popovich before him.
After hesitating for a while, Jackson did not stand up, which meant that he chose the latter.
He chose to trust O’Neal and the Lakers’ defense.
Of course, there is also Sun Hao.
“Beep!”
The whistle sounded again.
This time, because the Wizards had committed four fouls in a single quarter, O’Neal was fouled before halftime.
O’Neal had a little bit of discomfort on his face, but he had experienced this kind of scene many times, so there was nothing he could do about his discomfort.
At this time, Sun Hao walked over and patted his arm to encourage him.
O’Neal went to the free throw line again.
He adjusted his mentality and breathing.
Still missed two free throws!
It seems that he can’t find the words for his free throw shooting tonight.
“Phil had better take Shaq off the court.”
Breen in the commentary box gave the Lakers advice at this time.
But Jackson made a decision and did not change it easily.
Sun Hao turned around and saw that Jackson still had no intention of adjusting. As he retreated, he reached out and applauded to mobilize the defensive enthusiasm of his teammates.
Just like he did against the Suns in the Western Conference Finals.
Everything happens once and becomes ripe twice.
The Lakers players also instinctively recalled the scene when they played the Suns before, and their defensive enthusiasm was obv