The Denver Nuggets led by two-time MVP Nikola Jokic has taken a 1-0 Western Conference series lead over the Los Angeles Lakers after a 132-126 win today. It looked like a one-sided game as the Lakers were down by as much as 21 points in the second half, before trimming the lead to three with just minutes remaining.
The Lakers were looking good to claim a remarkable comeback win but the Nuggets held their ground as they capitalised on some crucial missed shot to pull away and bag the first game.
Jokic finished with 34 points, 21 rebounds and 14 assists with Jamal Murray dropping 31 points while Bruce Brown scored 16 points coming off the Nuggets' bench and was a huge factor throughout the contest.
Anthony Davis top-scored for the Lakers with 40 points while veteran LeBron James had 26 points and nine assists, but the late-game agitator was Austin Reeves making big plays to ring up 23 points which include 11 points in the fourth quarter. Game 2 of the Western Conference Final will be at 12.30pm Friday. Meanwhile, game 1 of the Eastern Conference Final between the Boston Celtics and the Miami Heat will be at 12.30pm tomorrow.
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