NBA playoffs: Nuggets take Game 1, survive Lakers’ late rally in Western Conference finals

The Lakers’ plan for stopping Jokic will be put to the test in Game 1, as the Nuggets look to take an early lead in the series. The Lakers’ defense will need to find a way to slow down the versatile big man, who has been a matchup nightmare for opponents all season. It remains to be seen which Lakers defender will have the most success guarding him, but Davis is likely to draw the assignment for much of the game. The Lakers will also need to find a way to contain the rest of the Nuggets’ talented roster, including guard Jamal Murray, who has been on a hot streak in the playoffs. It will be a tough challenge for the Lakers, but with James leading the way, they will look to take control of the series early and continue their quest for a second consecutive NBA championship.

Altitude can be a factor in Denver, as the city is nicknamed the “Mile High City” due to its elevation of 5,280 feet above sea level. The thin air can affect players’ breathing and fatigue levels, making it an advantage for the Nuggets, who are used to the conditions. The Lakers, however, have taken steps to acclimate to the altitude, arriving in Denver a day early to practice at Ball Arena. LeBron James acknowledged the challenge of playing in high altitude, stating that players get tired faster than they would at lower elevations. It remains to be seen how much of a factor the altitude will play in the Western Conference finals.

Since that game, the Lakers have undergone significant changes, including the addition of Andre Drummond, Ben McLemore and Wesley Matthews, while Schroder and Marc Gasol have moved on. Meanwhile, the Nuggets have seen their roster evolve as well, with the additions of Aaron Gordon and Austin Rivers. Despite these changes, both teams have found success in the playoffs, setting the stage for an exciting rematch in the Western Conference finals.

It remains to be seen if the Lakers can find a way to stop Jokic and the Nuggets in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals, but so far in this postseason, they have been successful in executing their game plans and taking control early in series with their Game 1 victories. Lakers coach Darvin Ham acknowledges the challenge of stopping Jokic, who has been dominant all postseason with his scoring and passing abilities. The Lakers will mix up their defense and put their best foot forward in trying to stop him, but they also know that they cannot completely shut him down. Despite the changes in both rosters and circumstances since their meeting in the 2020 West finals, James still recognizes the Nuggets as a “really, really, really, really, really good team.” The Lakers split the season series 2-2 with the Nuggets, with each team winning their home games. The Lakers hope to maintain their Game 1 success and find a way to slow down Jokic in their upcoming series.