The Nuggets are on a roll, securing their ninth consecutive victory with a masterful display against the Lakers. Their superior execution was evident throughout the game, as they confidently cruised to a win, leaving the Lakers trailing in their wake. Despite leading in the first half, the Lakers faltered against Denver’s precise shooting, unable to mount a comeback.

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While it’s only the first game of the series, a win would have been significant for the Lake Show. A victory in Game 1 could have spared them further embarrassment, but now they find themselves facing an uphill battle. The Lakers desperately need a win in Monday’s Game 2 to regain momentum.

Los Angeles Lakers vs Denver Nuggets Apr 20, 2024 Game Summary | NBA.com

D’Angelo Russell, who struggled against the Nuggets in last year’s Western Conference Finals, had a standout performance this time around. After a solid regular season, many expected Russell to bring a renewed energy to the first-round series.

However, Game 1 didn’t go as planned. Russell’s inability to halt the Nuggets’ winning streak was glaring, as he seemed to revert to his postseason struggles once again. Lakers fans are all too familiar with Russell’s inconsistency, particularly in crucial playoff moments.

Russell had ample opportunities to make an impact, including several three-point attempts and scoring opportunities in the second quarter. Unfortunately, he failed to capitalize, displaying subpar defense and missing key shots when the Lakers needed them most.

It’s becoming increasingly evident that Russell excels in the regular season but falters when the pressure is on in the playoffs. This pattern is no accident, and it’s a cause for concern for the Lakers. If they hope to make a deep playoff run, they’ll need Russell to perform at his best consistently.

However, his performance in Game 1 was a setback for the Lakers. If Russell continues to struggle, the outcome of this year’s series could mirror that of last year’s, ending in a swift defeat for the Lakers. It’s clear that Russell’s performance will be crucial to the Lakers’ success in the playoffs, and they’ll need him to step up if they hope to advance.