Editor's Note: Make a Point of It

The Los Angeles Lakers proved their worth when the refused to release the gas pedal in the pounding of the Orlando Magic. They proved they are the better team, that they can enter a mode that no team can contain. The only problem is if they can do that for four games. The first game is in the rear-view mirror, and the magic number is now at three. The Lakers need to follow the same formula each game and this series will fall into their laps. They need to cover the perimeter at least decently, and if it looks like the Magic's 3-pointers are dropping, they need to solidify that defense. They can't concern themselves with Dwight Howard. Last night was a fluke for him. He will not be held to 11 points throughout the finals. And the Magic will not shoot 29.9% either. The Lakers have to focus on their defense, as it's the only thing that can contain Orlando.