The score may not impress, but there's actually a lot to like about the way the Lakers have started the game. They're active, they don't seem flat. They also don't seem tired (though that may still show up later in the game). Gasol is being aggressive on offense and active on defense. A lot of good signs for the Lakers – we've just missed some shots.

Of course, Kobe with a two-for-one 3-pointer and a buzzer-beating floater to get it within 3 doesn't hurt, either. He's playing like he has absolutely no intention of letting this series go as long as the last one.

Plus, we've ended this first quarter behind by just enough to win this game.