The Denver Nuggets will take on the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1 at home in a Western Conference Finals rematch from 2020.
Nuggets coach Michael Malone analyzed the similarities between his superstar center Nikola Jokic and Lakers’ forward LeBron James, praising their IQ and work ethic.
“The athleticism is a striking difference, but their IQ, their feel for the game, seeing things before they happen, work ethic, very, very similar players. There are a lot of ways to be great.”
Michael Malone on the similarities between Nikola Jokic and LeBron James: “The athleticism is a striking difference, but their IQ, their feel for the game, seeing things before they happen, work ethic, very, very similar players. There are a lot of ways to be great.”
— Harrison Wind (@HarrisonWind) May 15, 2023
Jokic has been arguably the best player in the 2023 Playoffs, though Jimmy Butler has been sensational himself. The two-time MVP has averaged 30.7 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 9.7 assists in two dominant series wins so far.
LeBron isn’t putting up numbers like he used to, but his averages of 23.4 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.3 assists have been extremely impactful, with a renewed commitment on the defensive end.
Can The Lakers Make It Back To The NBA Finals?
The Denver Nuggets are the favorites in this series, given their excellent playoff form and status as the No. 1 seed in the West. Still, the Lakers have already beaten two higher-seeded teams this playoff run and will be looking to hand Denver a fourth loss in the Conference Finals with their battles over the years.
The matchup between Anthony Davis and Nikola Jokic will likely be the biggest factor, as AD will need to find a way to lock Jokic up while also attacking his defensive flaws. Whether AD can stay engaged and motivated for seven games is another question.
LeBron showed in Game 6 against the Warriors that he can still turn up the pressure if he’s motivated to do so. Hopefully, he keeps that energy going in Game 1, as stealing a road win will be crucial for the Lakers’ chances at success in their toughest challenge yet.
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