In contrast, Denver struggled to get anything going offensively. Despite missing a layup and breakaway dunk, LeBron James was once again productive on the offensive end as he helped lead the team’s second unit and give the Lakers a slim lead at the half.Īustin Reaves scored the first five points in the third quarter to create a cushion. The Lakers came out hot in the second quarter with a 9-0 run as Jokic sat. LAL lead early in Q2 on ESPN #NBAConferenceFinals presented by /4ghrDxbx1z- NBA May 19, 2023 Not only did he continue to make Nikola Jokić work on defense, but his offense was critical as he finished with 21 points. He started the game perfect from the field with 17 points.

Michael Malone didn’t seem too worried about Rui Hachimura after his role in the Lakers’ comeback in Game 1, but Hachimura proved his strong play wasn't a fluke. His only blemish early was a questionable flagrant foul on Jamal Murray. He had six points in the first quarter and hit 3-4 from the charity stripe. As a result, the Lakers were noticeably bigger and better with their half-court defense.Īs the opening frame progressed, D’Angelo Russell, a player rumored to be in danger of getting benched, started heating up. earning two early fouls each.ĭarvin Ham wasn't slow to make adjustments in the series as he shuffled his starting lineup by inserting Jarred Vanderbilt into the starting lineup. The Nuggets found themselves in early foul trouble with their starting wings Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Michael Porter Jr. Game 2 was aggressive and contentious from the jump. drops Game 2, 108-103.Īfter the collapse, the Lakers now face a 0-2 deficit as the series shifts to Los Angeles. The Lakers led most of the way but a fourth-quarter push by the Denver Nuggets was the difference maker as L.A.

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