Anthony Davis was in foul trouble much of Game 3 and couldn’t play the aggressive style he’s accustomed to. The coaching staff intended to use Davis on Butler, but couldn’t risk it with foul trouble. After that game, privately, a frustrated Davis alerted teammates and coaches that he needed to be glued to Butler, sources told Yahoo Sports. And in Monday’s practice, Davis was officially given the assignment he wanted. After the ball was tipped and when the Heat got their first offensive possession, the tone was set when Davis shadowed Butler.

Source: Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports

ANALYSIS: Anthony Davis, who felt like he was snubbed from the Defensive Player of the Year award, told Lakers teammates and coaching staff that he wanted to be on Butler more, and the coaching staff listened. Davis held Jimmy Butler to a series low in points and made it very difficult for Butler to get to the rim down the stretch.

With the Lakers looking to clinch their 17th title on Friday, expect more of the same with AD matching up with Butler most of the game.