The focus of attention in the upcoming series between the Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Lakers will undoubtedly be the superstar clash between LeBron James and Nikola Jokic. However, the performances of the supporting players on both teams will play an equally crucial role in shaping the series’ outcome. According to former Memphis Grizzlies guard Gilbert Arenas, he believes that D’Angelo Russell will be the linchpin in determining the series’ outcome.

“If [D’Angelo Russell] plays the way he’s been playing this season, we’re winning the series,” Arenas said. “We lost by one, two, three points last year with [Russell] averaging three points per game. So if [Russell] is averaging the 15-20 he’s been averaging, it’s a while different series… He had to get benched last year.”

In terms of accuracy, Russell posted an average of 6.3 points per game in last year’s Western Conference Finals against the Lakers, shooting a mere 32.3% from the field. While it’s challenging to attribute the Lakers’ series victory solely to Russell’s performance, as former Memphis Grizzlies guard Gilbert Arenas appears to imply, an enhanced level of play from Russell could certainly benefit the Lakers in the upcoming rematch.

Despite being swept by the Lakers last year, the Nuggets are not underestimating their opponents this time around. Nikola Jokic and his teammates consistently downplay the significance of last year’s series when discussing this year’s rematch. Denver recognizes the importance of performing at their best to overcome the Lakers once more. They acknowledge the Lakers’ talent and understand that their opponents are highly motivated to succeed.