‘Despicable’ Nikola Jokic steals Game 1 from Lakers

In an obvious cross-promotion for “Despicable Me 4,” the Nuggets star arrived at Sport 1 of Denver’s first-round collection dressed as Gru, the animated antihero of the movie. The promotion continued with a Jokic business additionally selling the movie.

The Lakers come from Hollywood, so they need to have recognized that Gru would triumph ultimately. Whereas Anthony Davis matched Jokic’s 32 factors and 12 rebounds with 32 factors and 14 rebounds of his personal, any fan of the “Despicable Me” franchise is aware of that the true energy comes from the Minions, who helped Denver win, 114-103.

That’s the place Denver actually dominated. With the little guys serving to out the massive man. All 5 of Denver’s starters scored in double figures, whereas Peyton Watson had eight factors in 13 minutes off the bench. In the meantime, the Lakers solely had one bench participant, Taurean Prince, who scored any factors in any respect.

LeBron James had 27 factors and eight assists, however in typical Gru vogue, the Nuggets did a whole lot of stealing. Seven steals in complete, with James turning the ball over seven instances in numerous methods. Typically as a consequence of ingenious traps from Denver coach Michael Malone, who was, as at all times, animated on the sidelines.

It was precisely the spectacular opening weekend that the Nuggets wanted as they search to defend their NBA title. Sadly for the Lakers, the critics will most likely savage D’Angelo Russell’s efficiency once more, as he missed eight of his 9 three-pointers.

The Lakers nonetheless trust, however up to now this collection is trying just like the sequel to final yr’s convention finals sweep.