LA are on the brink of NBA playoff elimination

LA Lakers head coach Darvin Ham faced heavy criticism on social media following the team’s third consecutive loss to the Denver Nuggets on Thursday. Following a 112-105 home defeat, the Lakers are now on the brink of elimination, facing a situation reminiscent of last season’s Western Conference Finals against the same opponent.

Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 24 points, 15 rebounds and nine assists, supported by strong performances from Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon, and Michael Porter Jr.

Lakers’ Anthony Davis gives killer look to Darvin Ham during tense timeout

Despite solid efforts from LeBron James and Anthony Davis, who scored 26 and 33 points respectively, the Lakers couldn’t overcome the Nuggets‘ balanced attack.

Fan reaction to analyst comments

Ham‘s rotations and adjustments throughout the season came under fire once again, with fans and analysts expressing their frustration on social media.

“Mike Malone continues to challenge every iffy call and I continue to be annoyed that Darvin chilled with his hands in his pockets on the [Jamal] Murray bump at the end of game 2,” Hoops Tonight host Jason Timpf said on X.

Despite the Lakers‘ playoff struggles, Ham is expected to return as the head coach for his third season. However, fans do not seem to be convinced.

“Someone tell Ham challenges don’t roll over…” a user responded on Timpf‘s post.

Another added: “Darvin has no clue what’s going on.”