Three takeaways on the Lakers

▪ The Lakers’ defense has made it impossible for Damian Lillard to play the way he wants to play, frustrating the Portland guard. Without his dominance, the Trail Blazers have been unable to compete.

▪ Shooting was a problem for the Lakers during their seeding games and in Game 1 of the series. In Game 4, they shot 56.3%.

▪ A scary thought for not only Portland, but also the Lakers’ potential other opponents: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope said the team is still mad about losing the first game.