Even with an injured LeBron James, the Warriors couldn't come back against the Lakers on Christmas Day, losing 127-101 in a crushing defeat on their home court.
The result wasn't just from what happened on the floor, though. It all started with a game plan from Lakers assistant coach Jesse Mermuys.
Really, the plan was quite simple, and it worked to perfection. Mermuys has been responsible for scouting the Warriors all season long and had a clear message for the Lakers -- guard Steph Curry, Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson as tightly as possible. Don't worry about anyone else.