Denver Nuggets' equipment crew fumble leads to epic pre-game chaos before Lakers face-off
The Denver Nuggets could be bringing out the broom in Game 4 against the LA Lakers. Up 3-0 in their first-round series, the Nuggets could make it back-to-back sweeps versus LeBron James and Co. if they win on Saturday. Nikola Jokic said after Denver’s win in Game 3 that the team would do everything it could to try and send the Lakers into a long offseason.
The players were hyped up a few hours before tip-off and proceeded to do some warmups. As ready as they were, the equipment manager apparently forgot something in the din of the excitement. The Nuggets did their shootaround minus one key part of their gear.
The Denver Nuggets had to start their preparation by wearing something else other than their shoes. Whoever was in charge had to scurry back to wherever the players’ shoes were stashed. It probably took a bit to get everything in order, considering the size of the team.
The Denver Nuggets have been ready against everything the Lakers have thrown at them
While there was some miscommunication with the shoes, there has been very little of that on the court for the Denver Nuggets. They have taken the best punches from the LA Lakers and have somehow managed to survive those haymakers. More importantly, they have responded with poise, grit and late-game brilliance to be on the brink of another sweep.
In each of the games played in the series, the Nuggets always trailed by double-digit figures. Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon, however, have not allowed the Nuggets to wilt under the pressure. Somehow, they always know how to strike back and eventually come out with the win.
With the LA Lakers’ backs against the wall, the Denver Nuggets are expecting a tough stand by the hosts. LeBron James will not allow his team to go out quietly. As long as the visitors don’t get four wins, count on “King James” not to give up.
The Nuggets will try to hang around with the Lakers like they’ve done in the series. If they can manage to stay within sight of their opponents, then they will like their chances of pulling off another late-game win.
Denver’s shoes may have been a little late but the Nuggets’ players surely are not. They are looking to end the Lakers’ misery on the road in Game 4.