In the Lakers vs. Pacers final, the players called to stop the Tournament breakout star

If the Los Angeles Lakers want to become the first NBA franchise to win the In-Season Tournament, first they have to stop Tyrese Haliburton and the Indiana Pacers. Now that the team is so close to winning the In-Season Tournament, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Co. looked to be locked in.

Tyrese Haliburton may be the breakout star from the Tournament but the Lakers need to minimize the pain he causes. Fortunately, they have an army of long-limbed wings to throw at him. How Cam Reddish, Jarred Vanderbilt, Max Christie, and more fare at making his life uncomfortable will be a major factor in the outcome.

The team that controls the pace will win this game. The Pacers want to play at ludicrous speed, firing up a barrage of shots and racing down the floor. The Lakers’ transition defense will have to be on high alert.

LeBron was on another level against the Pelicans; does he have another magical performance in him? The Pacers don’t have many players who have the size and strength to defend him, especially if he’s having one of those “refuse to lose” nights.

The Lakers need to stop the Indiana Pacers

The Pacer's spam shots are insane. It’s going to be critical that the Lakers not give them any extra opportunities at the basket, and that means controlling the defensive glass.