Denver Nuggets: Taking the Lakers to the Distance

Last year in the 2009 West finals, the Nuggets were leading 2 games to 1. They almost squandered a 16 point lead in Game 1. Then, they rushed back to win Games 2 and 3. Before they realized it, the Lakers seized command and took control of the series. After the series loss, the Nuggets learned from their experience by trying to take the eventual 2009 champion Lakers down. They knew deep down inside themselves that they could beat the Lakers. Somehow, someway, they could not maintain the focus they brought to play basketball when they played the Lakers. Whatever the Lakers did, they dictated the tempo of the game and the Nuggets. If Denver believes that they can beat the Lakers, they definitely have the right idea that Derek Fisher is unable to initiate the Lakers' defense. Chauncey Billups, the Nuggets' point man must be able to exploit that part of the Lakers defense. Carmelo Anthony must play terrific to beat the champion Lakers. Kenyon Martin, the Nuggets' four man must be able to score from the post and perimeter to keep Denver in it. If the Nuggets really do believe that they can beat the Lakers, they must prove it on the court.