On opening day of the 2024 NBA Playoffs, the most anticipated game on the schedule was Game 1 between the Los Angeles Lakers and Denver Nuggets.

The Western Conference Finals between the Lakers and Nuggets the previous season started off with an exciting rematch. In the first half, Los Angeles gave Denver everything they could handle and took a 12-point lead.

Nevertheless, the Nuggets persisted in playing their style of hoops and ultimately defeated the Lakers with ease. LeBron James contributed with a stat line of 27 points, 8 assists, and 6 rebounds.

James discussed his thoughts on the team’s performance in the first half as well as the areas where Los Angeles failed.

“We came out and made some good shots, and we were able to connect on some shots and build up a 12-point lead, I just thought we were playing good basketball,” James stated. “Then, obviously, they rode that momentum to get to a double-digit lead for themselves, cutting that lead to three at the half with the spurt they had at the end of the second quarter which led into the third.”

James went on to say that if Los Angeles want to make a run at a title in this series, they must pay attention to the little things. I have, however, never been a part of a championship team that overlooked details. It’s a must; there are no ifs, ands, or buts about it.

Finally, the King gave the Nuggets credit for their third-quarter offensive performance. “They just made shots, and they did a fairly good job at it. We were not very good offensively, and they made shots. Although I felt we looked fine together, we couldn’t seem to click. They performed admirably.

It will be interesting to watch how James and the Lakers react in Game 2 as he is well-versed in how to handle the playoffs in comparison to the regular season.

LeBron James is not freaking out over the Lakers’ nine-game losing streak against the Nuggets.The Lakers have now lost against the Nuggets nine times in a row after losing Game 1. James stressed that he’s not freaking out despite the losing run.

They safeguarded their home court; it’s just one game. On Monday, we have another chance to improve and return. We are aware of the level of difficulty and greatness of our opponent, as well as how tough it will be. That’s all a component of the game, then. I’m not the type of person that gets into a state of doubt. I’m not the right person to ask.

Los Angeles’ prospects won’t be made or broken in a single game, as James is aware, but they must perform better than they did in the first one.