The Los Angeles Lakers will have the advantage of playing in front of their home crowd when they host the Denver Nuggets in Game 3 of their Western Conference first-round playoff series on Thursday. The Nuggets currently hold a 2-0 lead after winning both games in Denver, including a thrilling 101-99 victory in Game 2.
In Game 2, the Nuggets overcame a 20-point deficit to secure the win. Jamal Murray’s buzzer-beating jumper proved to be the game-winner, giving Denver their only lead of the second half. Nikola Jokic had a triple-double with 27 points, 20 rebounds, and 10 assists, while Michael Porter Jr. added 22 points.
The Lakers were led by LeBron James, who had 26 points and 12 assists. Anthony Davis added 32 points and 11 rebounds, while D’Angelo Russell scored 23 points. However, the Lakers struggled in the fourth quarter, allowing the Nuggets to pull away for the win.
The Nuggets have now won 10 straight games against the Lakers, including six playoff victories. This includes a four-game sweep of the Lakers in last season’s Western Conference finals.
The Lakers will be looking to protect their home court advantage in Game 3 and regain momentum in the series. James is determined to take the series back to Denver for Game 5 with a different energy.
“Protect home. That’s where my mindset goes,” James said. “And obviously, the only game that matters now is Game 3 and how we can get better, how we can figure this team out. So, Game 3 is where my mindset is.”
Tip-off for Game 3 is set for 10:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, April 20th.
