The Nuggets secure at home

In Colorado, the Nuggets remain untouchable. Undefeated for the moment at the Ball Arena in these play-offs, Denver signed a new success in his room against the Lakers (108-103), in game 2 of the Western Conference final. On the other hand, on the night of Thursday to Friday, Mike Malone’s players this time had to chase after the score for a long time against one of the Los Angeles franchises to win and now lead 2-0 in this series.

Because, after a balanced first quarter (27-27), LeBron James’ teammates, not far from a triple-double (22 points, 9 rebounds and 10 assists), took things in hand before the break and were leading at that time (53-48). The rest of the match was however more complicated for them, despite having again had an 11-point lead in the third quarter. An advance which had already been of this order before half-time. Jostled, the Nuggets ended up reacting in front of their audience.

The Lakers may have regrets

After recovering and getting back on the scoreboard (76-79), Denver was very strong in the last 12 minutes, finishing 32-24 in the end. Led by Jamal Murray (37 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists) and Nikola Jokic (23 points, 17 rebounds and 12 assists), the locals managed to reverse the situation. At the same time, they retain their invincibility at home and break away before traveling to California to play games 3 and 4 of this series.

Beaten again, the Lakers will have to quickly raise their heads to relaunch this Western Conference final in their room. Able to doubt the Nuggets, the teammates of Anthony Davis (18 points, 4 of 15 on shots, and 14 rebounds) will have to do much better now to hope to continue their good end to the season. Touched in an ankle at the end of the match last night, LeBron James has in any case indicated that he would be ready to return to combat in two days. Good news for Darvin Ham and his team.

BASKET – NBA / PLAY-OFFS
Thursday, May 18, 2023
Denver Nuggets – Los Angeles Lakers : 108-103
> Denver leads 2-0 in the series