The Los Angeles Lakers have a huge motivation to win this year’s NBA Finals. They are playing in the loving memory of the late Kobe Bryant. Fortunately for the Lakers, they are off to a good start in their quest for an NBA championship.

The team won Game 1 comfortably with a score of 116-98 with strong performances from LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Following the defeat, the Heat needs to regroup, with their two stars, Butler and Dragic, probably out for Game 2.

If the two don’t make a return, the series might already be very well over, and the fans might not witness a competitive series. Speaking of fans, only virtual fans are present in the NBA Bubble to ensure the safety of everyone.

In the virtual fans stand today, many NBA legends were present, Pau Gasol being one of them. Gasol rocked the Black Mamba jersey with his former teammate Kobe’s #8 jersey.

Since the tragic passing of Bryant, Gasol has shown his love and support for his sworn brother. Today, he won the hearts of Lakers fans with yet another beautiful tribute to the Mamba.

The Lakers will wear the Black Mamba jerseys in Game 2 of the finals. They remain undefeated while wearing that uniform and will work for the same in Game 2 as well.

Kobe Bryant: The motivation behind Lakers’ strong performances in the Playoffs

The entire Lakers organization has been vocal about their motivation to bring the 17th banner in the Staples Center. They have said on numerous occasions that they want to win a championship for Kobe Bryant.

As a result, they are committed to fulfilling that promise. So far, everything is working out accordingly. With Game 1 of the NBA finals on the books, the purple and gold are just three wins away from their goal.

But underestimating the Heat would be the last thing the Lakers want. Miami has already overcome numerous odds to reach the biggest stage in the basketball world. They will surely not go down easy and have a chance to get right back in the series in Game 2.

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But what do you think? Can the Lakers take a 2-0 lead in Game 2? Or will the Heat make a comeback in the series?