Lakers vs. Nuggets: Who Can Dethrone the Champions in 2023-24 NBA Season?

As the 2023-24 NBA season approaches, the question on everyone’s mind is, “Who can possibly dethrone the reigning champions, the Denver Nuggets?” Last season’s performance suggests that the Los Angeles Lakers may be the prime candidate, given their formidable postseason matchup against Denver.

But ESPN’s NBA writers, in a surprising twist, have a different take. None of them have chosen the Lakers as the team with the best chance to topple the Nuggets.

This omission raises eyebrows, as both the Lakers and the Phoenix Suns are strong contenders who could give the Nuggets a run for their money in a postseason showdown.

Among the alternative teams listed as potential challengers are the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Golden State Warriors. While these teams are undoubtedly formidable, it’s somewhat astonishing that the Lakers failed to secure a single mention.

Such disregard for the Lakers discounts their substantial efforts during the offseason. Not only have they retained the majority of their players from their Western Conference Finals campaign, but they have also bolstered their roster with strategic upgrades.

It’s crucial to remember that the Nuggets have faced losses among their role players in the offseason, notably Bruce Brown, a vital member of their championship-winning squad, who now plies his trade in Indiana. The Lakers have diligently positioned themselves to ascend to the next level in the upcoming season, poised to contend for another title. The sky’s the limit for this Lakers squad, provided that LeBron James and Anthony Davis remain in peak health.

The quest for their 18th title commences with a face-off against the Denver Nuggets in the season opener. The Lakers are eager to revisit the playoffs and finish the unfinished business they left behind. Their ultimate goal: a championship run through Denver.