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last mo.

Luka Doncic Leads Lakers Past Short-Handed Nuggets, Clinches Playoff Tiebreaker

The Lakers secured a 120-108 victory over the Nuggets, moving into third place in the Western Conference as both teams dealt with key injuries.

Image
Mar 19, 2025; San Antonio, Texas, USA; New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby (8) drives to the basket against San Antonio Spurs forward Sandro Mamukelashvili (54) during the second half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
Mar 19, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers center Christian Koloko (10), guard Gabe Vincent (7), forward Jarred Vanderbilt (2) and guard Luka Doncic (77) defend a drive by Denver Nuggets forward Michael Porter Jr. (1) in the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Mar 15, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) reacts to a leg injury in the fourth quarter against the Washington Wizards at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images/File Photo

Overview

  • Luka Doncic scored 31 points, including 21 in the first quarter, as the Lakers dominated early with a season-high 46-point opening quarter.
  • The win marked the Lakers' ninth consecutive home victory and third straight overall, propelling them to third place in the Western Conference standings.
  • Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray missed their second consecutive game for the Nuggets due to injuries, while the Lakers were without LeBron James and Rui Hachimura.
  • Austin Reaves played a significant supporting role for the Lakers with 22 points and eight assists in the victory.
  • The Lakers clinched the postseason tiebreaker against the Nuggets, ensuring home-court advantage in a potential playoff matchup.