Magic Johnson Names Biggest Reason The Lakers Struggle Against The Nuggets

NBA legend Magic Johnson has been vocal on the Los Angeles Lakers run throughout the past few weeks. The Laker legend takes pride in the success of L.A., but there wasn't much accomplished in Hollywood this season.

Before and after every game of the Lakers' first-round series, Johsnon would give his thoughts on the L.A.'s keys to the game or reason for the loss. He spoke after Game 5, sharing what he believed happened to the Lakers to get gentleman swept by the defending champion Denver Nuggets.

"And the #1 reason the Lakers can’t beat Denver in a 7-game series is because the Nuggets are mentally and physically tougher than the Lakers," said Johnson, via X.

The Lakers were simply outplayed, especially in the second half.

Denver held their poise throughout the entire game, and Los Angeles' game plan didn't let them have successful games for 48 minutes.

Johson's point on mental and physical toughness definitely holds some weight to it. In the fourth quarter, it seemed the Lakers were being bullied in both aspects.

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