The rivalry between the Denver Nuggets and the Los Angeles Lakers was once again full on display when the Nuggets secured a 119-107 victory on the NBA’s opening night. Leading the Nuggets’ offensive dominance was their star player, Nikola Jokic, who made an outstanding triple-double, scoring 29 points, 13 rebounds, and 11 assists.
With this latest win, the Nuggets have defeated the Lakers for the Sixth time in a row. Many people are crediting Jokic for this streak. Alongside him, Jamal Murray further increased problems for the Lakers’ by adding 21 points, 6 assists, and 2 rebounds. With their performances on the season opener, they proved they are the strong duo in the Western Conference.
The Nuggets extend their winning streak against the Lakers 😤 pic.twitter.com/gJilyvgAia
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) October 25, 2023
All of the Lakers starters also scored in double digits, led by LeBron James’ 21 points in 29 minutes but they failed to close the gap. There was a clear difference in the offensive and defensive prowess between the two teams, which means the Lakers have to reconsider their strategy ahead of upcoming games against the Phoenix Suns and Sacramento Kings.
LeBron James made a decent comeback against the Nuggets
LeBron had an okay night with 21 in 29 but recent reports suggest he was restricted to 29 minutes of playtime in the recent match against the Nuggets. Coach Darvin Ham revealed that the limited playing time for the 38-year-old basketball superstar was intentional, suggesting a long-term game plan that aims to maximize LeBron’s abilities.
Coach Ham said, “We have to be mindful of the minute output and how long his stretches are,” indicating that the team wants to keep LeBron fresh and impactful throughout the season. The strategy appears to increase LeBron’s effectiveness, seeing his age and potential wear and tear.
James, who is renowned for his intense dedication to the game and the ability to play long minutes, approved the plan, stating, “This is the system in place and I’m going to follow it.” He expressed confidence in his capacity to make a major impact within the allotted time.
LeBron James on his limited minutes (29) tonight:
“I mean, I always want to be on the floor, especially when you have an opportunity to win a game and you feel you can make an impact. But I guess there’s a system in place and I’ll follow it.”
(Via @DStarkand ) pic.twitter.com/XalCa2lqvX
— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) October 25, 2023
This new approach will put pressure on other key players, especially the 30-year-old Anthony Davis, to step up and cover for James. While Davis had an explosive first half in the game against the Nuggets, he scored 0 points in the second half, emphasizing the need for a more consistent team effort. Fans and analysts will closely watch the Lakers in the upcoming season and how their new approach is going to work.