That 25-1 may mean nothing to the game outcome,

but it does mean a lot for those bench players. As you mentioned, boosting up their confidence that they can play too. Meanwhile, it's a push and slap in the face for starters, because they didn't play with fire and urgency. There might be some good intangibles in it.

As for playing Bonzi in the 3rd, obviously JVG wasn't happy to give up 54 points to a Odom-less lakers at the half. He wanted to try different things, to contain Walton and control the boards better. He really didn't have any other options. Playing Bonzi was just like throwing out a prayer to see whether it works. Besides, he kept saying that Bonzi wasn't ready, but casual fans don't believe him and call for his head:) I guess Bonzi doesn't believe that either. Now we all know, he's no where near game shape and condition.