The Los Angeles Lakers’ 2023–24 season began against the Denver Nuggets. Even if Denver prevailed, the Lakers are still a factor. Since the LA team’s four-game thrashing of the Western Conference Finals in 2023, the Lakers and Nuggets have been fierce rivals. It seems like the drama is still going on because of a recent highlight play that shows LeBron James falling for Reggie Jackson’s shot fake.

Was LeBron James a fake? Was he just stumbling over a shoe, perhaps?

Jamal Murray drove the ball along the baseline and then sent a pass to Reggie Jackson in the corner. Jackson pumped-faked as James hit the deck.

James seemed to have orchestrated his departure from the television camera. But upon closer examination, James did, in fact, step on Jackson’s sneaker, as witnessed by viewers of the live broadcast. This caused him to lose his balance and fall back. Nonetheless, LeBron’s ankle appeared to be broken in the view of Denver fans.

There are many outstanding plays in the exciting Western Conference Finals matchup. Despite their nine-point deficit at the break, the Lakers had some outstanding individual performances thus far. Anthony Davis scored 17 points, while LeBron James finished with 10 points, 2 assists, and 5 rebounds.

Los Angeles’ defensive performance has to get better if they hope to catch up to Denver. In addition, LA only made 30% of its three-pointers, compared to 38.7% for the Nuggets. If the Lakers can make more long-range goals, they may get closer to the lead.

Naturally, Nikola Jokic leads Denver with 19 points. It seems to be a fight between the big men as the second half of the conflict prepares to start in the Mile High City. Perhaps Reggie Jackon’s performance against LeBron will let loose the beast and cause Los Angeles to rally.

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