NBA Playoffs 2012: Top 3 Necessities for Lakers to Close Out Nuggets in Game 5

The Los Angeles Lakers were able to capture a pivotal win in Game 4 on the road in Denver. Tonight, the Nuggets face elimination if the Lakers are able to close out on their home court in the Staples Center.

The Lakers have played at a higher level at home all season long. This has continued so far in the first round as the Lakers haven't allowed the Nuggets to lead in scoring at all in Los Angeles.

Especially at home, there are necessities that already seem to fall in line. Kobe Bryant can be counted on to make an impact, even if he struggles with efficiency. Also, having the home crowd on your side will transfer to the players performing with passion and intensity, something the Lakers have struggled with on the road in the regular season and in most of Games 3 and 4 in Denver.

Nevertheless, there are three keys for the Lakers to employ during Game 5 tonight in order to not extend this series and move on to the next opponent, the Oklahoma City Thunder.

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