If Kobe were tasked with defending Roger, Pierce's position would definitely explode again.
The terrifying aspect of the Hawks' lineup compared to that dynasty Bulls team lies in the fact that Pippen's role has been split into two.
Alongside Jordan, Pippen was responsible not only for assisting in defense but also for sharing the scoring pressure. This often led to Pippen's limited ability to dissipate scoring pressure during the playoffs.
But with the Hawks, Pippen only had to focus on defense, while Pierce handled the scoring pressure, thereby providing potent support for Roger.
Although Pierce didn't score much today, he occupied the Lakers' best perimeter defensive resources, which in itself is a form of constraint, isn't it?
Phil Jackson truly wished all dual-guard combinations would vanish from this world!
