When Derek Fisher spoke with the media before the start of Tuesday’s game, he said the keys to game would be energy and effort. Execution hasn’t been as much of an issue for a team this talented, but the Sparks have let themselves be outhustled on occasion, particularly at the start of games.
Energy would not be a concern for L.A. against New York. The Sparks came out active on both ends of the floor and set the tone early in their 93-78 win over the Liberty. The pace almost got too frenetic on occasion, leading to some sloppy turnovers, but the overall intensity level was a plus.