Chapter 268: I Want My Damn Respect.
After sinking the shot, Kyrie Irving celebrated with his signature "pistol holster" gesture, igniting a deafening roar throughout the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
While Irving's earlier bull-headed play left some fans scratching their heads, his performance tonight was undeniably electrifying.
With that last three-pointer, Kyrie had already racked up 10 points in the quarter. He was clearly determined to steal the spotlight tonight!
"Defense! Defense!"
The crowd was fully alive, their energy fueling the Cavaliers' defensive efforts.
Cunningham, although not as physically imposing as TT in the paint, brought his own advantage: speed.
Against an opponent unwilling to play through the low post, his agility allowed for faster rotations on defense—exactly what the Cavs needed tonight.
The Lakers struggled to execute their plays. At the last second, Kobe received a bailout pass from LeBron but missed the shot. Their offense stalled, and the Cavaliers seized the momentum.
A chance to widen the gap loomed. If they could sink another three-pointer, the lead would balloon.
During this transition, an amusing scene unfolded.
Kobe gestured to LeBron, who appeared hesitant.