The Denver Nuggets are gearing up for a fierce showdown against the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference finals, hoping to finally overcome their history of playoff disappointments against their rivals. With an impressive home record at Ball Arena and an enthusiastic crowd backing them, the Nuggets are confident in their ability to conquer LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and the ghosts of their past.
Nuggets coach Michael Malone, however, prefers to focus on the present rather than dwell on their dismal playoff record against the Lakers. “Getting to the NBA Finals is all that matters,” Malone emphasized, acknowledging the special significance of facing the Lakers for the fans. The electric atmosphere at Ball Arena is expected to be a significant advantage for the Nuggets, with Lakers coach Darvin Ham acknowledging, “Their crowd is going to be on the edge of their seats, standing, stomping, screaming.”
LeBron: “we’ve got the ultimate respect for Denver.” pic.twitter.com/o3vJLuotvj
— Jake Shapiro (@Shapalicious) May 15, 2023
Lebron James says “Every game, every postseason, every matchup allows you to continue to grow as a franchise, as a team, and they’ve done that,”. “So, we come in with the utmost respect for this team.” “They’re better (than they were), but they were great then,” James said Monday, politely protesting questions about how different Denver is now vs. then. “And they’re great now. Joker has got two more years under his belt. Jamal (Murray) has gotten back to his regular form after the injury. And the rest of those guys are playing exceptional basketball.”
While altitude is often considered a factor in Denver’s home success, Nuggets star Nikola Jokic believes it is the team’s talent and mindset that drive their achievements. “We think it’s us,” Jokic confidently stated. Although the Lakers have managed to snatch homecourt advantage in previous rounds, Jokic hopes to deny them that advantage this time around.
Reflecting on their previous playoff encounters, Jokic claimed he doesn’t remember any specific takeaways that could aid the Nuggets. In contrast, LeBron James recognizes the Nuggets as a formidable opponent, noting the growth of their star duo, Jokic and Jamal Murray. James expressed respect for the Nuggets’ overall talent and their development as a franchise.
The relationship between James and Coach Malone adds an extra layer of intrigue to the matchup, with James acknowledging Malone’s role in his early career. Malone, in turn, appreciates the opportunity to coach both James and Jokic, highlighting their similar qualities in terms of basketball IQ, leadership, and their ability to elevate their teammates.
With both teams brimming with confidence and mutual respect, the stage is set for an intense battle in the Western Conference finals. The Nuggets aim to rewrite their playoff history against the Lakers and seize the opportunity to secure a spot in the NBA Finals.
Lebron James and Davis listed as probable against the Nuggets
As the Los Angeles team gears up for Game 1 of the Western Conference finals against the Denver Nuggets, there is good news for Lakers fans. Despite some concerns, stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis are on the injury report, and are listed as probable but it seems that the team and their supporters have little reason to worry.
The Lakers are viewed as strong contenders for the title in the 2023 NBA Playoffs. Having already overcome formidable opponents on their journey to the West finals, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and their talented teammates are brimming with confidence. While the Nuggets will certainly provide a tough challenge, the Lakers are fully prepared to face them head-on.
With their sights set on the ultimate prize, the Lakers are determined to continue their impressive playoff run. The team’s resilience and the star power of LeBron James and Anthony Davis have instilled confidence in both the Lakers’ roster and their loyal fan base. Excitement is building as the Lakers prepare to showcase their championship aspirations against the Nuggets in the Western Conference finals.
