LeBron James was impressed by Nuggets’ forward Michael Porter Jr.’s offensive efficiency after their 2024 first-round series. LeBron openly called Porter a laser and wondered why Porter seems to not miss shots when matching up against the Lakers. 

“Michael Porter Jr. is a f***ing laser. I don’t know if it’s because he sees the Lakers or gold, or whatever, I feel like versus us, that motherf***er don’t miss. There was a game where he literally did not miss. I was like, ‘You can’t even close the gap.'”

As the Nuggets’ third option, Porter Jr. averaged 22.8 points on 55.3% from the field and 48.8% from three during his excellent first-round performance against the Lakers. With his knack for scoring baskets, Porter Jr. has the offensive ability to force the Lakers back into the game, even if they manage to contain Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray.

During the regular season, Porter averaged 16.7 points on 48.4% from the field and 39.7% from three. He has not performed well in either of the Timberwolves’ two postseason games, averaging 14.5 points on 40.0% shooting from the field and 35.7% from three.

By averaging 27.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 8.8 assists on 56.6% field goal and 28.5% three-point shooting, LeBron did indeed surpass Porter Jr. He would like fewer stats and a series victory despite the performance. Even after finishing his 21st season, James remains the best option in Los Angeles, whereas MPJ was a third option throughout his prime.

LeBron James Was Angry After The Lakers Lost Their Series 4-1.The Nuggets defeated the Lakers in this series with a decisive 4-1 series win. On the Mind The Game podcast, LeBron shared his honest opinions about the same topic with JJ Redick.

It’s always going to be tough to take on the reigning champions in the opening round. We were aware of that beforehand. But, man, we had so many chances, and we lost in five of them, two of which were game-winning because to Jamal’s, you know, awesomeness. F**k. However, we had a ton of chances.”

James stated that the Nuggets should be given all the credit they are receiving and offered no explanations for the defeat.

However, f**k, man, I feel like there are a few plays here and a few plays there. We had a chance to win the series, but the superior team prevailed. Clearly, the superior team prevailed. When credit is due, give it.”

Regretfully, the Lakers exploited holes in the Nuggets’ offensive line, building sizable leads in each of the five games before their offense gradually closed the gap. The Minnesota Timberwolves, who presently play the Nuggets, have the defensive players to shut them down.

In Game 2, they demonstrated their ability to do so by holding the Nuggets to 80 points, the lowest point total of the playoffs. The Lakers had some excellent defensive performances, but with a weaker team and a coach who found it difficult to counteract opponent coaches’ in-game adjustments, they couldn’t hope to regularly match Denver’s 48-minute game length.

Hopefully, LeBron will help the future Lakers head coach and give them the freedom to take charge of the locker room in order to create a winning team.