Malone, who couldn't find a good offensive rhythm in the first quarter, still couldn't break Gan Guoyang's defensive chains in the second quarter.
The team's offense fell into a quagmire, with the core players unable to score in one-on-one situations, making the situation exceptionally difficult for the Jazz.
In the current NBA environment, a core player's strong one-on-one scoring ability is an indispensable part of a strong team.
With the defensive side having the upper hand and mainly relying on man-to-man defense, high-efficiency solo plays are the key to winning in the playoffs.
Without Malone driving the solo play point, the Jazz's offense fell into a complete standstill.
"Malone catches the ball at the baseline corner, this is his sweet spot, he spins and charges the basket, but his layup is swatted from behind by Ah Gan! Oh my, Malone still can't score!"
