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The thoroughly compelling 2023 NBA Eastern Conference Finals basketball series finals are currently underway. The two eminent teams in the most important series in the season are the favorites (the Denver Nuggets) and the underdogs (Miami Heat). The Denver Nuggets edged LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference Finals – perhaps one of the NBA match results that few commentators and fans anticipated. Meanwhile, Miami managed to close out the series against the Boston Celtics in dramatic fashion. This article will assess the comparable chances these teams may have in the NBA finals and offer some hints as to possible differing outcomes.
Overview of Denver Nuggets
The Denver Nuggets navigated a relatively straightforward course to their first finals in the history of the franchise. In the first round of the playoffs, the Nuggets allowed the Minnesota Timberwolves only one win in the series. Subsequently, they labored to a significantly higher degree against the arguably stronger Phoenix Suns but eventually overwhelmed Kevin Durant and his team, allowing them two wins in the series. Next on their itinerary was the Los Angeles Lakers, which commentators anticipated to be the best series in the West. This proved to be accurate, judging by the first game. However, the Nuggets and their sensational center Nikola Jokic managed to sweep aside the Lakers in a stunning victory.
What can be expected from the Nuggets in the finals?
If NBA commentators and enthusiasts were to assess their performances thus far, it is perhaps safe to assume that the Nuggets will continue their form. However, Denver relied on the burgeoning partnership of Murray-Jokić who operate as a mutually-complementary duo. NBA enthusiasts who witnessed the playoffs will comprehend that the “Joker” Jokić has averaged a triple-double in 17.2% in 582 career regular-season games. In addition, Jokić scores 30 points in almost every game – if he manages to find his recognizable rhythm early in the series, the Miami Heat players face a stern challenge against the Denver Nuggets.
Overview of Miami Heat
The run of Miami Heat to the NBA finals has been described as “nothing short of miraculous”. The team were labelled as “underdogs” from the commencement of the post-season; however, they managed to eliminate the favorites in the East, the Milwaukee Bucks. Many commentators considered this victory a “fluke”, but Miami subsequently dispelled this notion by beating the New York Knicks and the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals. In the latter game, an early 3:0 lead in the series shocked the basketball world. Nonetheless, Miami Heat players lost their momentum and subsequently suffered 3 consecutive losses. The series was tied, but Miami eventually managed to triumph in TD Garden, home of the Celtics.
What can be expected from Miami Heat in the finals?
The Miami-Denver rivalry has increased and intensified in recent weeks, which provides superlative entertainment for those seeking highly competitive basketball in the finals. The most critical obstacle for the Miami players is the effervescent Murray-Jokic duo. If they can keep the “Joker” to under 20 points per game and perhaps mitigate his assists, there may be a chance of a stunning victory. Moreover, Miami’s Jimmy Butler must perform masterfully and significantly better than he has in the last three games against the Boston Celtics. Regardless of the outcome of Miami versus Denver, it is certain to be a bona fide enthralling experience for both avid fans and neutral viewers.