Game 3: Rocky-Mountain Comeback

The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Denver Nuggets 103-97, taking a 2-1 lead in the Western Conference Finals. Denver had an 8 point lead going into the fourth quarter, but the Lakers roared back, out-scoring the Nuggets 32-18 in the final period. Trevor Ariza had another game-changing play as he stole an inbounds pass, was fouled, and converted both free-throws to give the Lakers a 4-point lead with just seconds left. LA struggled to convert at the foul line though, going 31-for-45. Denver shot just .393 in the game, missing 22 of 27 3-pointers. Kobe Bryant sliced and diced the Nuggets' defense, scoring 41 points, including a clutch 3-pointer that gave LA the lead for good in the fourth. Pau Gasol had 20 points and 11 rebounds, and Ariza added 16 points, 9 of which came on 3-pointers. Carmelo Anthony was cooled off, scoring just 20 points before fouling out late in the game, and Chauncey Billups had 18 points, 7 assists, and 6 rebounds. Chris Andersen added 15 points off the bench, and also blocked three shots.