Score, score, and score again!
From the first three quarters of intense defense and relying on counterattacks and free throws to score five or six points each quarter, Zhang Hao's play suddenly changed in the fourth quarter, with a wild offensive surge!
Even during a counterattack after the official timeout in the fourth quarter, when Owens fouled Zhang Hao as he was the first to retreat on defense, Zhang Hao had already surpassed Owens in position, leading the referee to call for an unsportsmanlike foul, resulting in two free throws and possession!
The Lakers were originally hoping this lineup could hold out until Van Exel returned to the court. With him, they could continue playing, allowing Zhang Hao some rest. If they could hold on until the critical moments, having Zhang Hao, Van Exel, and Doug Christie, three players capable of clutch shooting, they could still compete despite the opposing starting guards both scoring 20+ points.
