The NBA playoffs in the Western Conference are beginning to be defined as each of the series are decided. Here are the latest details:
Denver Closes the Deal
The Denver Nuggets sealed the deal against the Minnesota Timberwolves with a tight 1112-109 victory on Tuesday night. With the win, Denver sealed their pass to the second round. In addition, winning in Game 5 allows them to get a couple of extra days of rest before the start of the next round.
Now, the Nuggets will face the Phoenix Suns, who also did their thing on Tuesday night. Jamal Murray's 35 points and Nikola Jokic's 28 were enough to seal the victory.
For the Timberwolves, a season full of ups and downs comes to an end. This premature end means looking for answers to improve the team and compete in the Western Conference. Minnesota needs to find more support for star point guard Anthony Edwards, who will not be able to do it alone.
Lakers one step closer
The Lakers 117-111 overtime victory over the Grizzlies puts the Lakers one step away from sealing their ticket to the second round. The advancement of LeBron James and company would be a significant accomplishment after injuries and inconsistent performance by the Los Angeles team.
Meanwhile, Ja Morant's injury has affected Memphis in a big way leaving them struggling against a Lakers roster with more depth on the bench. Memphis will need a miracle to come back in the series. For now, Game 5 on Wednesday night will be crucial for both teams.
California in Equals
The series between the Sacramento Kings and Golden State Warriors has not disappointed basketball fans. The series is tied at two games after a tight 126-125 win in Game 4. Steph Curry's standout performance brought back the best moments of Golden State's dynasty. Curry's 32 points were crucial to seal the win.
On the other hand, the Kings received the expected from De'Aaaron Fox, who led his club with 38 points. Fox will continue to be the key for Sacramento as they look to advance to the next round. However, the road looks uphill. The odds show the Warriors as -300 favorites. When it comes to the playoffs, it's hard to bet against Steph Curry and his supporting cast.
Suns advance to face Denver Nuggets in next round https://t.co/s3JlwotFpn
- Arizona Press (@ArizonaPrensa) April 26, 2023
Soles Advance
The Phoenix Suns ended their series against the Los Angeles Clippers with a 136-130 victory on Tuesday night. This series was characterized by offense-heavy games.
However, the Suns will face the Nuggets, who will ultimately be a more balanced opponent than the Clippers. For Phoenix, they will need more from Devin Booker, whose 47 points in Game 5 were decisive, in the second round to defeat the Nuggets.
For the Clippers, it ends a positive campaign with a disappointing result. The Clippers had hoped to achieve more this season. However, they will need more than 14 points from Russell Westbrook to go further.
