Jamal Murray’s game-winning shot over Anthony Davis in Game 2 of the Nuggets-Lakers series has sent shockwaves through the NBA. The Lakers, who once held a 10+ point lead, squandered their advantage in back-to-back games, leaving fans and analysts questioning the team’s late-game execution.
FS1 analyst Skip Bayless seized the opportunity to criticize LeBron James, claiming the four-time Finals MVP lacks the “clutch gene.” Bayless pointed to James’ missed three-pointer with 16.9 seconds remaining, comparing it unfavorably to similar shots made by Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson.
Paul Pierce, another former NBA champion, echoed Bayless’ concerns, highlighting the Lakers’ repeated inability to close out games. Pierce lamented Anthony Davis’ lack of clutch performance and noted that the team’s late-game mishaps mirror their struggles in the 2023 Western Conference Finals.
