The NBA’s conference finals are set, with the Lakers, Nuggets, Celtics and Heat all reaching the final four with varying degrees of surprise. Here are five big questions that will determine the outcomes of the two series, and who will reach the NBA Finals.
1. Who will make the other work more: Nikola Jokić or Anthony Davis?
A great deal of the Lakers-Nuggets matchup will come down to Jokić vs. Davis. The Joker dismantled Phoenix’s single coverage in Round 2, averaging nearly 35 points a night as the Suns were reluctant to double him. Los Angeles will also likely start with Davis and see whether he can defend without serious help, allowing the Lakers to stay close to Denver’s shooters. Davis will also have opportunities to attack Jokić offensively, as his athleticism advantage will be key in the half court.
