Luka Dončić delivered a breakout performance for the Los Angeles Lakers, leading them to a dominant 123-100 victory over the Denver Nuggets. The superstar guard, still adjusting to his new team after a blockbuster trade from Dallas, scored 32 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, and dished out seven assists in just his fourth game with LA. This statement win ended Denver’s nine-game winning streak and showed the Lakers’ potential for a deep playoff run.
Dončić Finds His Rhythm in LA
After averaging just 14.7 points in his first three games with the Lakers, Dončić finally looked comfortable on the court. He controlled the game, set up teammates, and played with his signature flair.
“Finally feel like myself a little bit,” Dončić said. “Playing this game, this is what I love. Just finally being myself a little bit, that’s why I was smiling all game.”
LeBron James, who added 25 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists, thrived alongside Dončić. The duo’s chemistry was on full display, with James finishing several long outlet passes from his new teammate.
“I am a natural-born wide receiver, and he’s a natural-born quarterback,” James joked.
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Lakers Control the Game
The Lakers never trailed, securing their first win in Denver since April 2022. Their defensive pressure forced the Nuggets into 22 turnovers, leading to easy transition points. Despite Nikola Jokić’s 26th triple-double of the season, the Lakers held the reigning MVP to just 2-of-7 shooting and forced him into six turnovers.
“It was their night,” Denver’s Jamal Murray admitted. “Offensively and defensively.”
The Nuggets fought back in the third quarter, trimming the Lakers’ lead to 63-62. But LA responded with a 10-0 run, capped by a powerful James dunk and a deep Dončić three-pointer. From there, they controlled the game, cruising to their 14th win in 18 games.
A New Era for the Lakers
Lakers coach J.J. Redick wanted to see Dončić’s passion shine through. Before the game, he challenged him to have a “blackout moment” and show his fire on the court. Dončić delivered, letting out a huge scream after drilling a step-back three late in the second quarter.
“It was great,” Redick said.
Moments later, Dončić’s competitive spirit boiled over when he argued a non-call on a missed floater, earning a technical foul. But his intensity fueled the Lakers, who played with urgency and confidence.
Nuggets Look to Regroup
Denver now heads on a four-game road trip, hoping to bounce back after the lopsided loss.
“Give them credit, they played really good,” Murray said. “We’ve had their number for a number of years. It’s one game. We’re not going to overreact.”
The Lakers, however, see this as just the beginning. With Dončić settling in and building chemistry with James, they look ready to challenge the NBA’s best.
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