The Los Angeles Lakers are facing significant challenges as they trail the Denver Nuggets 2-0 in their Western Conference playoff series. Following the Lakers’ Game 2 loss, head coach Darvin Ham publicly dismissed Anthony Davis’ post-game remarks about the team’s disarray.
Davis had expressed frustration with the Lakers’ lack of organization on both ends of the floor, but Ham defended his coaching staff, attributing Davis’ comments to frustration.
“I just think sometimes [when] the plays don’t turn out the way you think they should, the frustration sets in a little bit, but I don’t think it’s us not being organized. I have incredible, talented coaches all along my staff,” Ham said during today’s practice in Los Angeles. “Whether it’s a practice, a shootaround, or film session [or] a game, we pride ourselves on being highly efficient and organized.”
The Lakers had a seemingly insurmountable lead at halftime, but the Nuggets stormed back in the second half, outscoring the Lakers by 22 points. Denver’s comeback was led by Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, who turned in a dominant performance in the fourth quarter.
Jokic finished with 27 points, 20 rebounds, and 10 assists, while Murray scored 14 points in the fourth quarter, including the game-winning shot at the buzzer.
The Lakers will need to make significant adjustments if they want to avoid a sweep in the series. Game 3 is scheduled for Thursday night in Los Angeles.
