The Lakers faced a disappointing playoff defeat in their first home game at Crypto.com Arena in 13 years. After a promising start, they were dramatically outscored over a key stretch, leading to many concerns about their performance. Players like LeBron James struggled to maintain their rhythm, while others like Rui Hachimura had stark variations in their contributions. Despite the loss, it's emphasized that playoff series aren't determined by one game, but alarming signs were evident as they prepare for Game 2.
Rui started the game well, but quickly faded into the background. He was the only Laker outside of the Big 3 to hit multiple field goals.
Game 1s are typically feel-out games for LeBron, but that first half wasn't him feeling things out. He never looked like he was in a rhythm.
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