LeBron James’ 30 points helped the Lakers reach the finals and thus has a chance to add another trophy to his rich collection. “It’s a nice tournament, but it’s still December, so it’s not worth getting too crazy. But we have another opportunity to be even better and we’re looking forward to it,” said James, the league’s scoring record holder, its four-time champion or the holder of four Finals MVP awards.
The Lakers had six scorers in double figures, while none played more than 31 minutes. The middle passage was great for them: in the second and third quarters they outclassed New Orleans by a total of 81:41.
LeBron James puts on an impressive and efficient (9/12 FGM) performance as the Lakers get the W and reach the Championship of the NBA In-Season Tournament!
Austin Reaves: 17 PTS, 5 REB, 7 AST
Anthony Davis: 16 PTS, 15 REB, 5 ASTPacers-Lakers | Saturday at 8:30pm/et on ABC pic.twitter.com/JbZMqXrEnR
— NBA (@NBA) December 8, 2023
Tyrese Haliburton was the star of Indiana’s young team, just like in the quarterfinals against Boston. In the game with Milwaukee, he collected 27 points, 15 assists and 7 rebounds. “We are playing well and are currently shocking the world. We will continue to do so,” promised Haliburton. The Pacers’ bench clearly outplayed the opponent’s, with each of Indiana’s ten players scoring at least six points in the semifinals.
Milwaukee’s frustration continued in the locker room, with Bobby Portis arguing with coach Adrian Griffin, according to media reports. He was angry that the team lost on rebounds 46:51, according to Portis, the attack was the key in the end of the balanced game.
The Pacers led by 12 points at halftime, but trailed by three points after the third quarter, which they lost 28-43. The final quarter was the deciding factor, and Indiana won 37:25. The difference was only one point with 2:40 minutes to go, but then Indiana dominated. Even 37 points and 10 rebounds by Janis Adetokunba were not valid for the Bucks.
