Nuggets Dominate Fourth Quarter to Secure Game 3 Victory Over Lakers
Denver Flexes Muscles to Level Series
The Denver Nuggets emerged victorious in Game 3 of their NBA playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday night. A dominant fourth-quarter performance propelled the Nuggets to a 115-107 victory, tying the series at 1-1.
Fourth-Quarter Surge
The Nuggets, who trailed by five points entering the final period, surged ahead with a 34-20 run in the fourth quarter. Nikola Jokic, the reigning NBA MVP, led the charge with 16 points in the frame, including a crucial three-pointer that put Denver up by seven with just over four minutes remaining.
Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon also contributed significantly in the fourth quarter, scoring 10 and eight points, respectively. Murray's layup with two minutes left gave the Nuggets a double-digit lead, which they held on to secure the victory.
Lakers Struggle Down the Stretch
The Lakers, led by LeBron James' 26 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists, were unable to match Denver's intensity in the final minutes. Anthony Davis, who had been a force in the first two games of the series, was held to just 12 points on 4-of-15 shooting.
The Lakers' offense went cold in the fourth quarter, scoring only seven points in the first nine minutes of the period. Their struggles were compounded by Denver's stingy defense, which forced eight turnovers in the final frame.
Series Level, All to Play For
With the series now tied at 1-1, the Nuggets and Lakers will face off in Game 4 on Monday night in Denver. The series is now wide open, with both teams showing their potential for victory.
The Nuggets will be looking to seize home-court advantage with a win in Game 4, while the Lakers will be desperate to avoid falling into a 2-1 deficit.
Yahoo Sports
Los Angeles Times
Komentar