Frank Vogel, Anthony Davis say Kentavious Caldwell-Pope “saved” Lakers in game one

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
Sep 30, 2020; Orlando, Florida, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (1) reacts to making a three point basket during the first quarter against the Miami Heat in game one of the 2020 NBA Finals at AdventHealth Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Lakers completely blew out the Miami Heat on Wednesday in game one of the NBA Finals but the game didn’t come without some early jitters. The Lakers looked slow and nervous to start the game as the Heat rushed out to an early 13 point lead.

The Lakers looked to be on the verge of being on the wrong side of a blow out themselves before Kentavious Caldwell-Pope drilled two huge corner threes and was fouled on a third one. KCP’s offensive outpour (and some solid play defensively) allowed the Lakers to get settled and they ultimately ended the first quarter with a lead they would not relinquish the rest of the way.

After the game, Lakers head coach Frank Vogel and star Anthony Davis were highly complimentary of the Lakers’ starting guard:

KCP himself also spoke about being ready for the moment in his first ever Finals game:

Caldwell-Pope has arguably been the Lakers’ third best performer all season with consistent 3-point shooting and hard-nosed defense. It’s great to see him rewarded with such a huge moment on the biggest stage in basketball.

KCP finished the game with 13 points and added two steals on the defensive end.

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