In 2009, the Lakers ousted Houston in the Western Conference semifinals and Denver in the WCF then disposed of Orlando, 4-1, in the Finals. Kobe Bryant led the charge for coach Phil Jackson and was one of only two Lakers who were at least 30. If and when L. A. advances to the Finals, the Lakers will play in Orlando where they clinched in 2009. While the Lakers are heavily favored to dump the Nuggets to make it to this year’s Finals, Denver will try not to go away quietly. Giannis took regular season MVP honors last year and won it again this year with 85 first place votes compared to LeBron’s 16.

Source: Philippine Star September 19, 2020 16:01 UTC