Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers Are in Control

The 2009 NBA Finals just might get out of hand for the Orlando Magic in Game 2. Although Game 2 is (not quite) a Must Win, the discombobulated Magic, most prove that the franchise can at least compete with the Los Angeles Lakers for the full 48 minutes, in the aftermath of Thursday's 100-75 Game 1 shellacking.

 Game 1 was an unmitigated disaster for the Orlando Magic as the surging Lake Show flexed their imposing Championship muscle.  The initial meeting featured the superior gamesmanship of a locked-in 40-8-8 Kobe Bryant, timely contributions from the L.A. supporting cast, and the swarming defense of an athletic, long, and lean Laker front line that harassed Dwight Howard and his mates into shooting a wretched 29% from the floor. Orlando is an inside-out, 3-point shooting ball club that is absolutely doomed when the jumper goes cold.  Orlando has not mashed the panic button yet, but the collective hands of Central Florida remain at the ready to abandon the ship of reason with another NBA Finals debacle. This article presents the three key match ups that will determine the outcome of Game 2. The Orlando Magic cannot afford to get blown out of the gym, yet again.  #3 2009 NBA Finals - Game 2, Los Angeles Lakers vs. Orlando Magic Key Match up: Kobe Bryant vs. Kobe Bryant The Black Mamba put the full repertoire on display with his Game 1 masterpiece. Kobe Bryant, the best player in all of basketball, slapped together his greatest post season performance ever against the Orlando Magic. Kobe knocked down jump shots, posted up, beat his man off the dribble with penetration, and drew contact to tally up 40 points. Mr. Bryant was in control from jump and proved that he is the most cold blooded assassin alive in sports.  Still, the face of the Los Angeles Lakers franchise managed to keep his teammates involved. Kobe executed the perfect floor game while ringing up 8 assists to go with his 8 rebounds. Bryant's renewed emphasis upon team play created double-digit scoring opportunities for both Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol. The pair chipped in together for a solid 27 points and 22 rebounds.