The 2020 Western Conference finals between the Los Angeles Lakers and Denver Nuggets proved to be an instant classic. After splitting the first two games, the lakers vs denver nuggets match player stats only for the Nuggets to force a decisive Game 7 with back-to-back wins. Game 6, in particular, saw outstanding individual performances on both sides. Let’s take a deeper look at the box scores and stats from this thriller matchup.
LeBron James Leads the Way
As he so often does in big moments, LeBron James put the team on his back for the Lakers. The superstar forward poured in a game-high 38 points on an efficient 15-22 shooting from the field. James also corralled 16 rebounds and added 10 assists for a triple-double, controlling the game in all facets. At 35 years old, he showcased his hallmark combination of size, strength, and skill to get to his spots and finish constantly. James came up especially big in the 4th quarter with 12 points as the lakers vs denver nuggets match player stats closed out the win
Anthony Davis Anchors the Defense
While James powered the offense, Anthony Davis locked things down on the other end. The 7-foot big man altered shots at the rim with his length and blocked 3 attempts. He also came down with 10 rebounds and scored 27 points with an array of post moves and jumpers. Davis used his versatility to frustrate Nuggets star Nikola Jokic all series long. His rim protection and interior scoring balanced out perfectly with James’ all-around production to push the Lakers ahead.
Jamal Murray Outduels Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
For Denver, their young star guard Jamal Murray once again rose to the occasion. He paced the Nuggets with 26 points on 8-15 shooting plus 8 assists. Murray showcased a clutch shooting stroke, scoring 15 points in the 4th quarter alone to keep Denver within striking distance. His dynamic scoring carried the offense. For the Lakers, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope chipped in with 13 points on 5-10 shooting to help space the floor alongside James and Davis. But Murray’s superior shot creation gave him the upper hand in this duel.
Nikola Jokic Dominates Despite Loss
try as he might, Nikola Jokic couldn’t single-handedly will the Nuggets to victory. The versatile center controlled the game with 30 points, 13 rebounds, and 14 assists, just two dimes shy of a triple-double. Jokic displayed incredible passing vision and an array of skillful shots in the post. While he committed 5 turnovers, Jokic’s all-around production was immense. But against the twin towers of James and Davis, it wasn’t quite enough, even in defeat for the Nuggets’ MVP candidate.
Bench Production Favors Los Angeles
The Lakers received substantial contributions from their reserves versus limited impact players for Denver. Kyle Kuzma added 11 points and 6 boards off lakers vs denver nuggets match player stats‘ bench. Meanwhile, Denver’s top bench scorers were Jerami Grant with 12 and Monte Morris with 10. But the Nuggets received negligible offense outside of their starting five. This discrepancy in bench scoring ultimately swung momentum back to Los Angeles late.
While Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic valiantly kept Denver competitive, the dual superstars of LeBron James and Anthony Davis ultimately proved too much. Their commanding all-around stat lines, in addition to support from Kalheud Caldwep-Pope and Kyle Kuzma, led the lakers vs denver nuggets match player stats to close out a thrilling Game 6 and advance to the NBA Finals. It was a memorable showcase of individual brilliance from both sides in a classic playoff battle.
