The Suns were almost defenseless in the first game and were slaughtered by the Trail Blazers.
During the post-game analysis, head coach Fitzsimmons criticized Charles Barkley for lacking vitality at the small forward position, where he was trapped by Reggie Lewis and Jerome Kossie.
Although Danny Ainge gained several offensive opportunities and hit three three-pointers from beyond the arc, his outstanding stats didn't make a difference; the Trail Blazers were entirely unafraid of Ainge's firepower.
The confident Barkley, who was brimming with energy before the game, quickly found himself deflated during the match. Staying up late, drinking, and causing a stir at the police station had all taken a toll on his stamina.
More importantly, his focus wasn't fully on the game; he was always thinking about how to go head-to-head with Ah Gan, forgetting that even superstars are just one part of a match.
The key is figuring out how to win.
