The Los Angeles Lakers and the Denver Nuggets have a storied rivalry in the NBA, marked by numerous high-stakes matchups. In the 2024 NBA Playoffs, they faced off in the Western Conference First Round, delivering a series rich in drama and standout performances. Below is a detailed analysis of each game, highlighting key player statistics and pivotal moments.
Game 1: April 20, 2024 – Denver Nuggets 115, Los Angeles Lakers 104
The series opener at Ball Arena saw the Nuggets secure a decisive victory. Nikola Jokić led Denver with 32 points and 12 rebounds, shooting an impressive 65% from the field. Jamal Murray contributed a double-double with 22 points and 10 assists, showcasing the duo’s synergy. For the Lakers, Anthony Davis scored 32 points, while LeBron James added 27 points. Despite their efforts, the Lakers couldn’t withstand a 13–0 run by the Nuggets in the third quarter, which shifted the game’s momentum.
Game 2: April 22, 2024 – Denver Nuggets 101, Los Angeles Lakers 99
In a thrilling contest, the Nuggets overcame a 20-point deficit to win at the buzzer. Jamal Murray, despite a slow start, scored 14 of his 20 points in the fourth quarter, including the game-winning fadeaway jumper over Anthony Davis. Nikola Jokić recorded a triple-double with 27 points, 20 rebounds, and 10 assists. The Lakers were led by Anthony Davis’s 32 points and 11 rebounds, while LeBron James contributed 26 points and 12 assists. However, the Lakers’ inability to maintain their lead proved costly.
Game 3: April 25, 2024 – Denver Nuggets 119, Los Angeles Lakers 108
Returning to Crypto.com Arena, the Lakers aimed to capitalize on home-court advantage but fell short. Aaron Gordon delivered a playoff career-high 29 points and 15 rebounds for the Nuggets. Nikola Jokić added 24 points, narrowly missing another triple-double. Anthony Davis led the Lakers with 33 points and 15 rebounds, while LeBron James scored 26 points and provided nine assists. The Lakers’ shooting woes, particularly from beyond the arc, hindered their performance.
Game 4: April 27, 2024 – Los Angeles Lakers 119, Denver Nuggets 108
Facing elimination, the Lakers responded with a strong performance to extend the series. LeBron James led with 30 points, and Anthony Davis contributed 25 points and 23 rebounds. Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell each added 21 points. Nikola Jokić recorded his second triple-double of the series with 33 points, 14 rebounds, and 14 assists. Despite Jokić’s efforts, the Nuggets couldn’t overcome the Lakers’ early lead.
Game 5: April 29, 2024 – Denver Nuggets 122, Los Angeles Lakers 120
In a closely contested game, Jamal Murray hit a game-winning shot to clinch the series for the Nuggets. Murray led with 32 points, including 12 in the fourth quarter. Nikola Jokić added 25 points, 20 rebounds, and nine assists. For the Lakers, LeBron James scored 30 points and provided 11 assists, while Anthony Davis had 17 points and 15 rebounds. The Nuggets’ resilience and clutch performances secured their advancement.
Summary: Lakers vs Denver Nuggets Match Player Stats
The Nuggets’ victory in this series was marked by consistent performances from their star players and the ability to execute in critical moments. Nikola Jokić’s leadership and Jamal Murray’s clutch scoring were pivotal. The Lakers, despite strong individual performances from LeBron James and Anthony Davis, struggled to maintain leads and capitalize on opportunities.
Key Player Statistics
| Player | Team | Points per Game | Rebounds per Game | Assists per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nikola Jokić | Denver Nuggets | 28.2 | 15.2 | 11.0 |
| Jamal Murray | Denver Nuggets | 22.6 | 4.4 | 6.8 |
| LeBron James | Los Angeles Lakers | 27.6 | 8.4 | 10.2 |
| Anthony Davis | Los Angeles Lakers | 27.8 | 13.6 | 2.4 |
This series exemplified the high level of competition between the Lakers and the Nuggets, with each game showcasing the talents and determination of both teams. The Nuggets’ ability to perform under pressure and the Lakers’ resilience made for a compelling playoff matchup.