Why NBA Players, Coaches Are Confident the Bubble Is Working

Thanks, Jamie. The Lakers started the game in the first half a little bit relaxed as if to feel the best punch the Nuggets could throw at them in the early going before dismantling them in the second half. The Nuggets look like they may be running out of magic this time around, and fatigue might not be their best friend. The Lakers are simply too much to handle. Not that they can’t be challenged, but they never felt threatened. That’s why I completely agree with Michael about the versatility of the Lakers, their size, and the nightmare matchup they would present to the Nuggets, especially on how Dwight’s role might impact the series. He showed up big, was disruptive, and was the unsung hero. He certainly knows how to get in an opponent’s head just like he did when he stood with the whole Nuggets team hurdled up at half court.

Everybody played well and that was a great win to start the series. LeBron and AD did their thing, KCP and Caruso did their damage, Danny Green hustled and Markieff Morris was his usual efficient and consistent player. Rondo was always locked in. Man, I love that shot he made from behind the backboard. That was insane. It kind of reminds me of the same kind of shot Kobe made several years ago, which remains one of my favorite Kobe shots. Good to see two Lakers make that kind of shot.

The one player that keeps impressing me, however, is Kyle Kuzma. He had another solid game and was doing everything right. Sometimes I wouldn’t even notice he is in the game until he comes out of nowhere and does little things so well that it leaves me in awe. He is definitely playing very stable and under control within the system with a team-first approach. He has improved immensely since the Bubble started.

Thanks for all the comments here. Looking forward to game 2.