However, it wasn't Barkley or even Kenny Anderson who turned the tide for the Lakers with their individual abilities to win the game, but Zhang Hao, which was quite unexpected.
Just like the Hornets believed Zhang Hao's tactical position had declined, most people also thought so.
From any angle, with Barkley and Kenny Anderson in the picture, the Lakers shouldn't have to rely on Zhang Hao for reckless play. Last year, with only Van Exel, using Zhang Hao for physical play was a necessity, and the Lakers played as a team ninety percent of the time.
Judging from the first two games, as expected, Zhang Hao's tactical role seemed reduced; he was no longer the Lakers' primary or secondary shooter. Even if Zhang Hao played well in the first two games, it was purely because catching and shooting was indefensible, unless Zhang Hao felt off, otherwise his shooting accuracy would be impressive.
