It will take a huge fourth quarter performance for the Denver Nuggets to steal the first game of their series against the Los Angeles Lakers, as they trail 77-64 heading into the final 12 minutes.
George Karl has been on the search for a consistent lineup throughout the game, but has had trouble finding five guys that can play well together. Danilo Gallinari is the only starter to score in double-figures so far, netting a team-high 15 points on 5/8 shooting. Corey Brewer has been a pleasant spark off the bench with 11 points, while Andre Miller has eight points, six assists and five rebounds.
The dominance of Andrew Bynum has been the story so far, as the Lakers big man is on his way to a triple-double. In just 29 minutes, Bynum has 10 points, 12 rebounds and eight blocks. Kobe Bryant has struggled with his shot but has managed to score 17 points.
For more on these teams, visit Nuggets blog Denver Stiffs and Lakers blog Silver Screen and Roll. Head over to SB Nation NBA for more news and notes on the 2012 NBA Playoffs.