Shaquille O'Neal says he's glad Rockets beat Lakers in Game 5: "I hate watching the Lakers play sometimes"
Yahoo Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Shaquille O'Neal criticized the Los Angeles Lakers for their lack of focus and intensity after losing Game 5 of their first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets, squandering a 3-1 lead.
- The Lakers started strong but faltered late, resorting to "hero ball" and failing to maintain their early intensity, which allowed the Rockets to come back and take the game 99-93.
- O'Neal expressed disappointment in the team's effort and emphasized that LeBron James and the young players need to understand the importance of consistent focus to win championships.
- Charles Barkley highlighted LeBron James' declining efficiency and stamina as a key factor in the Lakers' struggles, noting that James' fatigue is impacting his teammates' performance.
- Despite the setback, the Lakers still have two chances to avoid becoming the first NBA team to lose a series after leading 3-0, though the challenge is significant with James showing signs of wear.
