There are always heightened expectations when you’re the first pick in the draft. Those huge projections skyrocket when one’s stated as the possible torchbearer to LeBron James. The same has been the narrative Zion Williamson constantly finds himself in, although, on the harsher end of it. With that, Williamson, in one of his best years so far, erupted for a season-high 40 points in the Pelicans play-in battle with the Lakers. However, in what could be the best game of Zion’s career, an awkward landing forced the athletic wing to exit the game with nearly 3 minutes left.

The Lakers gripped the close game, winning 110-106. Now, as the New Orleans Pelicans head towards facing the Kings, LeBron James made sure to boost Zion’s esteem ahead of the matchup. When asked about Zion’s game, James claimed the 23-year-old to be a “generational talent.” Moreover, James ensured Zion’s 40-point outburst got the deserved attention, citing his performance as just a “small microcosm of what he can be… he’s a star.”

While fans hold his resume against him, LeBron understands Zion’s raw talent, which is often restricted by injuries. Moreover, slowly yet consistently, Zion is bashing all criticism beside his name.

He just finished his longest season ever by playing 70 games. While his early exit dampens his record against Bron even more, he managed to dent the ongoing narratives with his 40-point (17-27 shooting) and 11 rebounds.

With that, the clock now ticks on LeBron James, who has a bigger mountain to climb next. His Lakers will meet the Denver Nuggets in playoffs now, with a losing record working against them.

How can LeBron James’ Lakers fare against the Denver Nuggets?

The Denver Nuggets, like last year, are the frontrunners to win the championship. Nikola Jokic is still the top candidate to win the MVP. And the Lakers, with only a twig of a tweak, have the same roster that got swept by the Nuggets in the Western Conference Finals. Moreover, the updates still await on Jarred Vanderbilt and Christian Wood, two defensive pieces the Lakers would require.

Sure, LeBron James, 39-year-old, is well-rested and healthier coming into the series this time around. However, the game is all about the cohesion within the supporting pieces; at least with Denver. The Lakers’ most crucial moments throughout the series will come from the 3-point line and crashing the board on offense. And for that, each member will have to contribute efficiently.

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The Lakers took care of their turnovers last year, for the most part. However, the Nuggets out-rebounded the Lakers by at least 6 offensive rebounds in Games 1, 2, and 4. When the Lakers did garner 11 offensive boards to the Nuggets’ 5 in Game 3, they failed to protect the ball, giving up 12 turnovers.

Additionally, the Lakers need to match the Nuggets’ most consistent weapon – the 3-ball and the flow of its squad. Denver poses a nearly 42% three-point shooting from the past 7 contests. The Lakers clip ends at 36%. The Lakers are lauded to be a transition team, doing much of their damage on the run. With that, the Lakers not only need to increase their long-range game but also match Denver’s free-flowing offense.

Last year, Denver was constantly on the run, responding to opening and swarming the ball handlers. The Lakers simply couldn’t keep up. With that, to keep up with the defending champs, they will at least need to add quick threes to their playbook, while maintaining a high clip through their spot-up shooters.