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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

It?s been 5 months since the never-foreseen defeat of the Los Angeles Lakers against the defending champions. The most interesting thing is that the regular season is starting on the same note: Lakers vs. Denver Nuggets. With LeBron entering his 21st season on the hardwood, the claims of longevity will be put to the test.

LeBron James has prevailed victorious against most franchises; however, one key doesn?t fit the impeccable stats. The guess being too obvious, it?s Nikola Jokic and Co. who have caught the not-so-full-proof shooting tactics of the Akron Hammer. The Nuggets are back for a title win, while it?s a revenge game for the Lakers this season.

LeBron James and Co. Against the Denver Nuggets

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King James was standing at 40 points, 10 rebounds, and 9 assists in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals last season. Mihael Malone and Co. played impeccable defense against LeBron?s 48 minutes on the hardwood. In the end, the Nuggets were 4-0 and won by 113-111.

The game exhausted the 38-year-old to the extent of considering retirement in the offseason. And then Nikola Jokic and Co. went on to play the final match against the Miami Heat. The result was announced, with the Nuggets claiming the first championship in franchise history.

If we talk about the stats, then LeBron is inclined to tackle the defensive play of the Young Nuggets. The Lakers registered a tally of 19, 26, and 30 points in three games with the opposition in the 2022?23 regular season. With that in mind, James will have a tangible chance to make his 36 minutes on court worth a win.

Why Does James Struggle Against Nikola Jokic and Co.?

Nikola Jokic has skills that reflect triple-doubles like Wilt Chamberlain and no-look passes like Magic Johnson. Not only that, but high-release jumpers like Larry Bird, and the list goes on. Although Jokic eats, sleeps, and drinks in the paint, he seldom dunks. With the underlined advantage of height and wing, the ?best man? is the center.

Read More: Entering Year 21, 38YO LeBron James Set to Make History Yet Again vs Nuggets on Opening Night

The two-time MVP stands out for keeping the ball in motion. With 1.43 dribbles per touch, he has a different tactic than Luka Doncic and Trae Young to keep the ball moving. However, Ru Hachimura and Jared Vanderbilt might offer a solution for the big frame of Jokic.

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Whatever the scenario, one thing?s for sure: LeBron can?t solely lead the team to victory against the brilliant Nuggets. The Lakers, with their new amped-up team, are ready to deal with both defensive and offensive play.

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