To say O'Neal has gotten slower isn't quite right, it's just that his first step is a bit slower than before. In transition, on the move, you can't really see much change in his speed—his physical tools are still ridiculous.
But even that tiny bit of gap, at this level of competition, is a huge loophole in the eyes of the opponent!
The SuperSonics seized the chance to attack inside and out. After scoring only 2 points in the first two-plus minutes, they finished the first quarter with 31, going nuts for 29 points in the last nine-plus minutes!
The SuperSonics' run came early and hard, their ability to capitalize on opportunities is seriously strong.
Thankfully, in the last two minutes of the first quarter O'Neal went to work one-on-one twice, dunking over their 216-centimeter Center both times. Even though he missed the and-one free throw once, he established that offensive threat. After one quarter, the Lakers trailed the SuperSonics 28–31, down by 3.
