The Minnesota Timberwolves? defensive intensity needs a jumpstart.  From Game 1 to Game 2, the Los Angeles Lakers went from tying a franchise playoff low in points to shooting 51.5 percent in a 100-89 win.

Clearly the Lakers were more intense at home and Shaquille O?Neal was a force in the paint. And did the injury to Sam Cassell caused further problems for the Wolves? defense.

But the Wolves themselves think they must step up the defensive energy.  

This includes their coach of course.  "We were more into them in Game 2," Flip Saunders said. "We were able to force their offense out a little bit more. Game 3, they got the ball more in their areas."