Despite what was, through nearly 48 minutes, an 0-5 night from beyond the arc, despite the criticism he has heard from the media and fans throughout the postseason, Derek Fisher came through — as he has his entire career — when the Los Angeles Lakers needed him most.
No. 2 saved LA in regulation, hitting a game-tying three-pointer with just over four seconds remaining to tie the game at 87. Then minutes later, with the score tied at 91, lightning struck twice, with Derek hitting a three that put Los Angeles up for good.
Fish finished the night with 12 points on 5-11 shooting to go with four boards, two steals and an assist.
With the 99-91 victory, the Lakers took a decisive 3-1 lead in the NBA Finals.
THE PLAYS
The first three came at the end of the fourth quarter with Derek hovering above the three point line. After the game, he mentioned that Orlando’s Jameer Nelson was giving him too much room, and that he felt that he could make a play to help his team.
Then, with 31.3 seconds remaining in overtime, Derek hit a dagger that decided the game, and possibly, the championship series.
After the game, Derek spoke about his remarkable, game-deciding performance:
Through all your struggles, you kept the course and stayed with it. You came through at the most important time… THANK YOU!
Great game Fish and finish off the Magics on Sunday!!!
You know Derek, that’s the kinda thing that we as fans have come to expect of you over the years, it’s kinda become a given that you’re gonna hit those huge shots, but man those 3’s last night were some of the biggest i’ve ever seen, you’ve made us so proud of this team and so proud of you.
Well done Derek keep up the amazing work.
God bless you, D-Fish.
You symbolize everything that’s right about the Laker organization!
D-FISH! Great shots! True champion poise man. Number 2 knocking down huge shots in a Lakers jersey just seems right.
fish has just became a laker legend.
YEEEEAAAH. Fish the man!
Nice job man, you deserved it.
Thank you for showing what you bring to the Lakers, heart of a champion and leadeship!!!
everybody should already know that D Fish is a Laker Legend this is nothin new…im guilty of questioning fish and phil myself this playoffs but Fisher once again thru the grace of God reminds us what faith and hard work bring us…thru all his struggles personal and playoffs this man was able to deliver in the most pressure filled situations….you the man D Fish
Who Rules?
O’Doy….. FISHER RULES!!!!