NBA legend expects Golden State Warriors to bounce back from 3-1 deficit
![LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MAY 06: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors during game three of the Western Conference Semifinal Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena on May 06, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MAY 06: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors during game three of the Western Conference Semifinal Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena on May 06, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/7f4d347131c1820d5c59e16b3fe447f072f698b34a3ec56a5a7307bf1c039b29.jpg)
The Golden State Warriors suffered their second-straight defeat in Game 4 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the Los Angeles Lakers. With the series now at 3-1, the defending champions have an extremely thin margin for error if they want to progress further this season.
Los Angeles Lakers’ legend and NBA analyst Shaquille O’Neal feels that the Golden State Warriors are still in the series despite facing a 3-1 deficit.
Despite the fact that this entire season has looked problematic for the Warriors, former Laker Shaquille O’Neal believes they still have a great chance of coming back. Speaking on NBA on TNT, ‘Shaq’ spoke about how the mentality of a championship team will definitely kick into gear heading into Game 5.
"“Their chances are great. Steph Curry, greatest shooter in the game, missed those last two shots. You don’t think he’s gonna be p***ed off? He’s a dog, and when dogs get p***ed off, they come ready to play.”"
Heading back to Chase Center will certainly be a factor in both teams’ performances in Game 5. Instead of being out on the road, Kerr and the Warriors will get to concentrate on leaving no stones unturned in getting back into the series on their home floor.
Curry gives GSW the lead!
— NBA (@NBA) May 9, 2023
He's got a triple-double with 29 PTS, 14 AST, & 10 REB in Game 4.
3:52 TO PLAY ON TNT pic.twitter.com/wgB10Gyx1e
On that note, the variables that this series has presented makes one understand that the 3-1 scoreline isn’t indicative of the kind of great basketball that both teams are producing. Game 4 was an extremely tight matchup, with Warriors holding the lead till the final period.
They were able to build a 12-point lead in the third-quarter despite Klay Thompson not being a big contributor. The lead came as Steve Kerr ensured their team was fast enough to outpace and keep the Lakers on their toes.
Los Angeles were able to snap back with their ace in the hole: Lonnie Walker IV. The 24-year-old went through three-quarters of the game without attempting a single shot. Yet, as the Lakers drew closer to the Warriors, Walker helped his team edge out a victory with a stunning 15-point fourth-quarter.
In a similar fashion, this series has been one exciting game of chess. Will Anthony Davis be able to perform the way he wants to? Will Draymond Green be able to limit him? Will Thompson be able to assist Curry in getting the job done offensively? What strategy from the Warriors will be the best deterrent to the Lakers’ seemingly superior defense?
Next. Golden State Warriors: Steve Kerr refutes end-of-era implications of Game 5. dark
Golden State don’t need to make wholesale changes, they’ve been in this series throughout and could have easily won Games 1 and 4. What remains left to be seen is whether their championship mettle will shine through again to help them remain in the series.