Did Kobe Bryant Blow Game 3 of the NBA Finals?
The Los Angeles Lakers knew that the Orlando Magic would be playing with a sense of desperation in Game 3 of the NBA Finals. In the first half, the Magic shot an astonishing 75 percent from the field and got tremendous play from streaky point guard Rafer Alston. However, the Lakers remained close throughout the contest and had a chance to win in the last two minutes of play. But did the NBA’s brightest star let his team down? In the fourth quarter, Kobe Bryant was involved in three blunders that may have cost the Lakers Game 3. –a.r.
The Steal – While dribbling at the top of the key, Kobe Bryant had his eyes set on making something happen late in the fourth quarter. Defended by Mickael Pietrus, Bryant continued to dribble after Dwight Howard provided defensive help for Pietrus. Instead of passing, Bryant attempted to split the double team and the ball was eventually stolen by Pietrus.
The Free Throws – After being fouled by Magic rookie guard Courtney Lee at the 3-point line, Kobe Bryant missed two out of three free throws. But the most damaging miss occurred with less than one minute to play as Bryant made only one of two free throws.
The 3-Pointers – Down by only two points with two minutes to play, Bryant missed a critical 3-pointer that would have given the Lakers the lead and put more pressure on the Magic’s offense.
