The Denver Nuggets are just one victory away from making their first-ever appearance in the NBA Finals. After a commanding 119-108 win against the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 3 of the Western Conference finals, the Nuggets now hold a 3-0 lead in the series.
A potential series-clinching Game 4 awaits the Nuggets on Monday in Los Angeles at 8:30 p.m. ET, with ESPN broadcasting the highly anticipated matchup. Despite reaching the conference finals on four previous occasions since their transition from the ABA to the NBA in 1976, the Nuggets fell short each time, losing to the Seattle Supersonics in 1978, the Lakers in 1985, 2009, and most recently, in 2020.
In Game 3, the Lakers briefly took control in the fourth quarter, claiming an 85-84 lead with 11:00 remaining. However, the Nuggets responded with an impressive display of offense and defense to regain control of the game.
Jamal Murray showcased his scoring prowess once again, carrying forward the momentum from his outstanding performance in Game 2. The talented guard tallied 17 points in the first quarter and finished the game with an impressive 37 points, along with seven rebounds and six assists. Murray has been a key offensive force for the Nuggets, capitalizing on the Lakers’ focus on containing Nikola Jokic, the Nuggets’ MVP center.
Denver’s dominance was particularly evident in the fourth quarter, outscoring the Lakers 35-26. Crucial contributions from Jokic, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Bruce Brown, and Michael Porter Jr. ensured timely made shots that extended their lead.
Despite encountering foul trouble, Jokic remained a pivotal presence on the court, recording 24 points, eight assists, and six rebounds. While he narrowly missed out on another triple-double, a significant portion of his scoring came in the decisive fourth quarter, helping the Nuggets pull away from the Lakers.
With an opportunity to secure their spot in the NBA Finals for the first time in franchise history, the Nuggets will look to capitalize on their momentum and put an end to the Lakers’ hopes in Game 4. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and basketball fans are eagerly awaiting an exciting clash between these two talented teams.