The Lakers have been turning heads lately, transforming from a team that seemed like a favorable matchup for the Nuggets into a formidable contender. With a strong finish to the season, including a victory over the Rockets, the Lakers have won nine of their last ten games and claimed the season series against the Nuggets. This shift in momentum now makes the Rockets, who recently fell to the Lakers, appear to be a more enticing first-round opponent for Denver.
The Nuggets recently dominated the Rockets in Denver, securing a 36-point victory and clinching the tiebreaker-a critical factor for playoff positioning. Houston's struggles have been evident, especially in their recent loss to the Lakers, where they managed only 92 points, marking their second-lowest scoring game of the season.
Stephen A. Smith pointed out that the Rockets might have "hit their ceiling," largely due to the absence of a true point guard.
Houston's starting point guard has been sidelined all season, leaving Amen Thompson, a 6-foot-7 defensive specialist, to fill the role. Thompson, primarily a wing, has been stepping in for the injured Fred VanFleet, whose torn ACL has kept him out for the year.
Smith emphasized VanFleet's importance, suggesting that without his injury, Houston might have been a title favorite.
Adding to Houston's woes are rumors of Kevin Durant's alleged burner social media account, potentially stirring up team chemistry issues. When combined with the Nuggets' strong track record against the Rockets and Houston's current limitations, this matchup seems to favor Denver.
Jamal Murray has been a standout performer against the Rockets, delivering impressive scoring performances in three of their four encounters. His ability to navigate Thompson's formidable defense has been key, with Murray posting 26, 35, and 30 points in those victories. The Nuggets are also anticipating the return of Peyton Watson, who will bolster their defense with his size and length, particularly against Houston's larger guards.
A few weeks ago, Nuggets fans might have preferred a playoff showdown with the Lakers. However, given Stephen A.
Smith's insights into the Rockets' challenges and Denver's success against them, the Rockets now seem like a more favorable opponent. With 14 games left in the Nuggets' season, the landscape could still shift, but if the playoffs began today, Houston would be in Denver's sights.