The Los Angeles Lakers fell 127-100 to the Golden State Warriors in Game 2 of the Western Conference semifinals, and it appears the team is struggling to find an answer to the Warriors' four-shooter lineup, which debuted in this game. The Lakers were unable to guard against this different style and ended up losing the game. Additionally, the Warriors' defense was more aggressive, causing the Lakers to struggle offensively. Although LeBron James kept his answers simplistic, he stated that the team's defensive effort needs to be intensified to counter the Warriors' high-octane offense.

The Lakers' recent performances have proven that they need Anthony Davis to show up and contribute to the team's success. During the playoffs, Davis has been inconsistent, and his recent disappearing act has led to a lack of production for the Lakers. Without Davis playing at his best, the Lakers have struggled, and this recent loss has left them with another uphill battle to climb.

The fifth-round playoff matchup between Steph Curry and LeBron has brought about an aura of nostalgia and feelings of mid-life crisis for older millennials. This match-up could also be the perfect sell for the NBA's future, as the league seeks to double, if not triple, its payout to $50-$75 billion by negotiating a new cycle of long-term media rights next year. The showdown between James and Curry is the ideal sales pitch for the league, given their combined accolades.