The Denver Nuggets hit the ground running and didn’t disappoint in Game 1 of the NBA Finals.
Rest clearly didn’t lead to rust, as they looked fresh and in full sync ahead of their most crucial game in franchise history.
Unsurprisingly, the Nuggets’ two stars were up to the task of leading their team to success, with Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray combining to score and/or assist on 87 of their 104 points.
Jokic and Murray DOMINATED the offense in Game 1 😳 pic.twitter.com/vyR6YDPXfz
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) June 2, 2023
The Nuggets were in full control of the game from the jump, with Jokic going perfect from the floor and having a double-double at halftime already.
Jokic and Murray have been one of the best, most consistent duos in the league for years now, but it seems like they don’t get enough attention or recognition.
They made it to the Western Conference Finals the last time they were both healthy, and they’re playing like two guys on a mission this time around.
Aaron Gordon was physical, dominant, and determined in the early going, making the most of his athleticism and physicality every time he drove to the rim.
Moreover, the Heat duo of Caleb Martin and Max Strus went scoreless in the game, which was also obviously a major factor for Erik Spoelstra’s side.
The Heat will have to regroup and hope to be better in Game 2, but taking down this inspired and well-rested Nuggets team will be the toughest task they’ve faced thus far.
Then again, they have always embraced that underdog role, so one can never count them out of any series.
NEXT: Nikola Jokic Had The Perfect Quote About College Basketball
