Frank Vogel Credits LeBron James’ Clutch Defense on Jamal Murray For Lakers Victory Over Nuggets

The Los Angeles Lakers inch closer to the NBA Finals. After a tightly contested game, the Lakers got the better of the Nuggets to go 3-1 up in the Western Conference Finals. LeBron James was clutch during the final quarter to get this win for them.

For this game, the Lakers switched James onto Jamal Murray, who had been on fire since the start of the postseason. Although Murray ended with 32 points off 12/20 shooting, LeBron had a couple of crucial stops on him in the fourth quarter, which ensured the win. That layup would have got the Nuggets to just one point behind, and it could have changed the course of the game.

During the post-game interview, LeBron admitted that Murray is “one of the hottest guys that we have in the bubble today.” Therefore, he took on the responsibility of guarding Murray himself. The young star was unreal in the final quarter, and has been instrumental in leading comebacks for the Nuggets. But tonight, LeBron and co were able to hold on to their lead.

LeBron James: Always taking on the responsibility

Later veteran guard Rajon Rondo said that LeBron “switching over to guard Jamal Murray was the biggest key down the stretch.” And the best part was that LeBron himself said that he should guard Murray during crunch time, proving once again how good a leader he is for the Lakers.

LeBron didn’t have the best shooting night himself, but had a good all-round game. He ended up with 26 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists. But he punished the Nuggets with his dangerous drives. Either the layup was successful or he ended up drawing the foul. He was sent to the charity stripe 14 times, and he managed to score in 11 of those attempts.

The Lakers need LeBron to consistently perform on both ends of the court as they attempt to go for the title. Not only does he have to provide around 25 points, but he also has to guard their best player. So far, he has managed and got them to three wins, and he will hope to continue this form.