The Denver Nuggets currently trail the Lakers by one point.
Thanks to a last second three point shot by Kyle Kuzma, the Denver Nuggets are in hot water for the first time this season outside of the Golden State game.
While this is concerning, there is still hope. Jamal Murray has been very aggressive as he started the game hitting his first two shots which has netted him nine points on 4-9 shooting so far.
Nikola Jokic is being himself as he continues to get buckets and rebounds at an efficient rate as he has 11 points and six rebounds at the half.
Denver Nuggets
Paul Millsap has been solid defensively so far as he had a nice blocked shot and a contest on one particular possession. Mason Plumlee and Trey Lyles have been invaluable.
JaVale McGee may be having a hay day in the paint, but Plumlee and Trey Lyles have been forces on the offensive end of the floor. Lyles has especially been great as he has controlled the tempo and even done his best Nikola Jokic impersonation.
However, the team defense has been porous so far. As alluded to earlier, JaVale McGee is having his way down low and LeBron James is closing in on Shaquille O’Neal on the all time list for field goals made in a career. So far, James has scored 14 points to go along with eight assists and six rebounds. At this pace, he will most likely get a triple double in this game.
If the Denver Nuggets want to continue their winning streak, then they must shore up their defense. They have to rebound more aggressively and find a way to chase off shooter like Josh Hart and Kyle Kuzma off the three point line.
Hopefully, head coach, Michael Malone will make the necessary adjustments coming into the second half.