Denver Nuggets: 3 things we learned from Game 2 against the Trail Blazers

Denver Nuggets: Jokic vs Lillard will determine the outcome of the series

Let’s face it, this was always going to be the two players carrying their teams throughout this tense battle. Jokic has started both games off strong, however Lillard’s brilliant performances have kept the Trail Blazers competitive.

Lillard’s second quarter and first half as a whole is a prime example of the impact he has for the Blazers. The superstar guard hit six 3-pointers in the second term and finished the first half with 32 points to keep the Trail Blazers alive.

Nikola Jokic was also superb, having 25 points in the first half and finishing the game with a stat line of 38 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. The impact from these two players was evident throughout the game, as the Nuggets would not be as dominant when Jokic got into foul trouble during the third quarter and sitting at the start of the fourth.

Meanwhile, Lillard was halted by a good defensive effort from Aaron Gordon (more on that later) and tired legs, which saw the rest of the team collapse alongside him. This battle will continue to define every game in the series, as the two superstars attempt to lead their teams to victory.

While both teams have depth, both Jokic and Lillard have the ability to change the game, which is what Jokic must continue to do if he is to lead the Nuggets to the second round with a depleted roster.