Lakers Hold Off Nuggets in Game 4
In the first round of the NBA 2023-24 playoffs, the Los Angeles Lakers faced the Denver Nuggets in Game 4 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on April 28th. The Lakers managed to withstand the Nuggets’ pursuit, winning 119-108 to extend the series, trailing 1-3.
Early Battle: Jokic Shines, Lakers Spread Scoring
Nikola Jokic of the Nuggets displayed his all-around basketball skills, while the Lakers’ starting lineup quickly contributed points. Both teams focused on attacking the paint, with the Lakers taking a slight 28-23 lead at the end of the first quarter.
LeBron and Murray Duel
LeBron James attempted several strong drives to the paint, countered by Jamal Murray’s relentless cutting for the Nuggets. The score difference remained around 5 points. After lineup adjustments, Austin Reaves emerged as a key contributor, helping the Lakers expand their lead to 61-48 by halftime.
Second Half: Lakers Maintain Lead
In the third quarter, Rui Hachimura showed aggression in scoring for the Nuggets, while Michael Porter Jr. continued to respond for the Nuggets. However, the Nuggets struggled with shooting accuracy, while Lakers’ stars dominated inside. The Lakers led by 15 points, forcing the Nuggets to call a timeout.
Jokic Leads Nuggets’ Rally
After the timeout, Jokic’s scoring spree and MPJ’s inconsistent free throws kept the Nuggets in contention. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope’s steal and dunk further reduced the Lakers’ lead to 10 points, prompting a Lakers timeout.
Lakers Respond to Nuggets’ Surge
D’Angelo Russell and Lakers’ bench players contributed outside shooting, preventing a collapse similar to the third quarter. The Lakers maintained an 11-point lead, entering the fourth quarter with confidence.
LeBron Seals the Victory
In the final quarter, LeBron’s aggressive drives and DLo’s pressure layups extended the Lakers’ lead to 15 points again. Despite efforts from the Nuggets, including KCP’s three-pointers, the Lakers held on to their lead.
Lakers Secure Win in Closing Moments
Jokic’s strong drives and KCP’s outside shooting added suspense, but LeBron’s crucial plays and Lakers’ free throws secured the win. Despite the Nuggets’ attempts to foul and freeze time, the Lakers maintained a double-digit lead until the end, breaking their losing streak against the Nuggets.(Free100)