The Denver Nuggets suffered a setback when guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope exited Game 5 against the Los Angeles Lakers due to a sprained left ankle. Caldwell-Pope left the game midway through the first quarter and was initially listed as questionable to return. Although he did re-enter the game after a few minutes, he appeared to struggle and eventually left again for the Denver locker room just before halftime. It remains uncertain whether he will be able to return to the game.
Despite managing to play 12 minutes in the first half, Caldwell-Pope struggled to make an impact, going 0-4 from the floor with no points and only one assist. His absence compounds the Nuggets’ injury concerns, as their other starting guard, Jamal Murray, is also dealing with a left calf strain. Although Murray started the game, the Nuggets will be eager to close out the series soon to allow for rest and recovery for their injured players.
On the Lakers’ side, both LeBron James and Anthony Davis were listed as probable for Game 5, with James nursing a sore left ankle and Davis dealing with an ankle sprain. The Lakers are attempting to stage a comeback after being down 3-0 in the series and managed to win Game 4. However, they face a tough challenge against the Nuggets, who have consistently rallied late in games despite trailing for much of the series.
