Nikola Jokic (34-point triple-double) helps Denver control the game for much of the night, but Anthony Davis (40 points) and the Lakers cut a 21-point deficit to three late before dropping the West…
DENVER — Forget the mile-high altitude, the strength-sapping lack of oxygen found here at the base of the Rocky Mountains, the Lakers looked as if they were running through waist-deep mud in the early minutes of Game 1 of the Western Conference finals on Tuesday night.
Slowing Jokic, a two-time NBA MVP, might prove to be impossible for the Lakers. Or anyone else. But summoning greater energy for Game 2 should be imperative for the Lakers. They had no answer for Jokic, who led the Nuggets with a triple-double .
Once again, the Lakers rallied. Reaves hit another 3-pointer to cap a 9-0 run and suddenly the Lakers were within 124-121 with 3:22 remaining. Moments later, James made two free throws to cut it to 129-126 with 1:12 left. But the Lakers got no closer.
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