The Denver Nuggets defeated the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1 of their first-round series on Saturday, and fans had a number of theories as to why.

NBA play-offs 2024: Denver Nuggets open title defence with win over Los Angeles Lakers - BBC Sport

Despite the fact that both Anthony Davis (32) and LeBron James (27) scored the most points for the team, Lakers great Earvin “Magic” Johnson did not want supporters to hold them accountable for the defeat. Instead, Johnson believes that the players who didn’t score enough points, particularly the guards, are to blame.

Nikola Jokic and Nuggets outlast Lakers in Game 1 of NBA playoffs

“This Lakers loss isn’t LeBron or AD’s fault,” Johnson tweeted. “Just like I said the other day…the guards had to play well – and they didn’t. Dlo [D’Angelo Russell] was 1/9 from the 3-point line, [Austin] Reaves was quiet most of the game, and they only combined for 26 points.”

However, several fans didn’t agree with Johnson’s assessment and questioned the whereabouts of James and Davis as the Lakers started to lose the second half.

On Monday, April 22, the series’ second game begins at 10 p.m. ET in Ball Arena.