The Denver Nuggets have stunned the Los Angeles Lakers by claiming a decisive 101-99 victory in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series on Monday night. Jamal Murray’s game-winning shot over Anthony Davis has put the Lakers in a precarious 2-0 hole, making their path to the next round even more challenging.
In a separate Western Conference matchup, the Los Angeles Clippers have seized a 1-0 lead in their series against the Dallas Mavericks after securing a 109-97 victory on Tuesday night. Despite Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving combining for 64 points, the Clippers’ defensive game plan, executed by Terance Mann and Amir Coffey, proved instrumental in containing the star duo.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have endured a turbulent 3-6 homestand, losing three consecutive series against non-playoff teams from last year. Manager Dave Roberts initially dismissed the slump as a ‘bad week’, but the team’s recent performances have raised concerns about their vulnerabilities. Injuries and underperformances have contributed to the Dodgers’ underwhelming 13-11 record after almost a month of play.
Shohei Ohtani, the reigning American League MVP, continues to make history. After tying Nancy Lopez and Annika Sorenstam with his fifth straight win at the Chevron Championship, he set his sights on surpassing Dave Roberts’ Dodgers mark. However, Ohtani’s pursuit has been put on hold as he withdrew from the JM Eagle LA Championship to prioritize rest and recovery.
In the NHL playoffs, the Edmonton Oilers have extended their dominance over the Los Angeles Kings, defeating them 7-4 in the first game of their first-round series. Zach Hyman’s hat-trick and Connor McDavid’s five assists led the Oilers to a convincing victory, putting the Kings in a difficult position as they head into Game 2 on Wednesday night.
The NFL Draft is just around the corner, and anticipation is building for the annual Los Angeles Times beat-writer mock draft. Seasoned reporters covering each NFL team will provide their insights and predictions, offering fans a glimpse into the potential selections for Thursday night’s first round.
Cooper Kupp, the Rams’ star receiver, is determined to reclaim his 2021 form, when he led the NFL in catches, receiving yards, and touchdown receptions. After two injury-plagued seasons, Kupp is confident in his ability to recapture his previous dominance.
Nelly Korda’s quest for a historic sixth consecutive victory has been put on hold. The LPGA golfer withdrew from the JM Eagle LA Championship, citing the need for rest and recovery after a grueling stretch of four events in the past five weeks.
And finally, a look back at some notable events in sports history that occurred on this day in the past:
* 1903 – The New York Highlanders, later renamed the Yankees, played their first major league game, defeating the Washington Senators 7-2.
* 1939 – Boston Red Sox legend Ted Williams hit his first career home run.
* 1946 – Ed Head of the Brooklyn Dodgers pitched a no-hitter against the Boston Braves.
* 1950 – The Minneapolis Lakers became the first team to win back-to-back NBA championships.
* 1954 – The NBA adopted the 24-second shot clock.
* 1954 – Hank Aaron hit the first of his 755 career home runs.
