LAKERS-MAGIC:Lakers One Win Away From 15th NBA Title

The Los Angeles Lakers are now one game away from the 15th NBA title in franchise history after a thrilling 99-91 OT comeback victory in Game Four of the NBA Finals that put the Orlando Magic on the brink of elimination in a 3-1 series hole.

The Lakers could not play defense without fouling in the first half and the Magic took advantage.

Orlando's perimeter shooting would be strongly affected by the return of the Lakers defense in the second half.

After the Magic set NBA records for all-time finals shooting percentages in Game Three, they appeared tight missing several wide open jump shots enroute to shooting just 41.9 percent in Game Four.

Trailing by 12 points at the halfway mark, the Lakers got a much needed boost from the unproven hand of fourth-year forward Trevor Ariza (16 pts, 9 rebs, 2 asts, 2 stls) to get back in the game.

In the pivotal third period, Ariza caught fire scoring a baker's dozen on a pair of three-pointers, a dunk, a layup, a running jump shot and notched three out of four free-throw attempts. He also had a steal and two rebounds helping the Lakers to impose their will and forge ahead.

The Lakers outscored the Magic 30-14 in the quarter and took a 67-63 lead into the final period of regulation that set the stage for the spectacular finish and eventual overtime session.

Orlando was also handcuffed by 15 missed opportunities at the free-throw line and 19 turnovers which contributed significantly to their woes.


Read more at Bleacher Report.