DENVER — The Nuggets’ win streak against the Lakers just keeps getting longer.
Nine in a row, for those keeping track.
Throughout that span Denver has shown dominance over Los Angeles – which includes sweeping LeBron James and his supporting cast of stars out of last year’s Western Conference Finals in route to the Nuggets’ first NBA championship in franchise history.
Now, both teams are back for a rematch in the opening round of the 2024 playoffs.
But the result remains the same after Denver pulled out the 114-103 victory in the series opener Saturday night at Ball Arena.
Two-time MVP Nikola Jokic led the charge with 32 points, 12 rebounds and 7 assists. Jamal Murray also had a double-double with 22 points and 10 assists, while Michael Porter Jr. contributed 19 points.
Despite going into halftime facing a three-point deficit, the Nuggets responded by outscoring the Lakers 32-18 in the third quarter to take control.
"Part of us being down early is we may not have been playing well, but you have to give them credit." Denver head coach Michael Malone said. "Give the Lakers credit for coming into our building and sending a message that 'we're here' and this is a brand new series, which is what we fully expected."
James finished with 27 points, while teammate Anthony Davis put up a team-high 32 points and grabbed 14 rebounds.
Game 2 is scheduled for 8 p.m. (MT) Monday night at Ball Arena.
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