The Los Angeles Lakers lost Game 1 of the Western Conference finals against the Denver Nuggets, despite almost staging a comeback.
The Lakers trailed by as many as 21 points and struggled with rebounding and defense in the first half.
LeBron James had a chance to tie the game with a missed 3-pointer late in the fourth quarter.
Nikola Jokic of the Nuggets had an outstanding performance with 34 points, 21 rebounds, 14 assists, and two blocks.
Anthony Davis had a strong game for the Lakers, scoring 40 points and contributing defensively.
Coach Darvin Ham made adjustments in the second half, including switching Rui Hachimura onto Jokic defensively, which limited his effectiveness.
Hachimura's defensive impact was crucial, and he also scored 17 points offensively.
The Lakers targeted Jamal Murray on defense when James initiated pick-and-rolls.
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