Anthony Davis (scoring 32 points) and LeBron James (with 27) drive the Lakers forward, but Nikola Jokic (also scoring 32) and the Denver team seize control, securing their ninth consecutive victory over the Lakers with a 114-103 win, spurred by a 13-0 run in the third quarter.

The Lakers showed promise at the start of the game, offering hope that they could finally overcome the daunting challenge presented by the Denver Nuggets. However, as Game 1 of the first-round playoff series progressed into the fourth quarter, the outcome seemed inevitable, mirroring the results of the previous eight matchups between the two teams: a 114-103 victory for Denver, giving them an early advantage in the best-of-seven series.

In the opening quarter, the Lakers made the right moves and benefited from the Nuggets’ initial struggles with shooting accuracy. LeBron James (27 points, eight assists, six rebounds) led the charge, scoring nearly half of his points in the first quarter, while D’Angelo Russell also made a strong start with six points.

The Lakers consistently pushed the pace, attacked the paint, and minimized turnovers. However, as their performance began to wane, the Nuggets capitalized. Led by Nikola Jokic (32 points, 12 rebounds, seven assists), Denver exploited the Lakers’ defensive weaknesses, particularly in rebounding and transition defense. The Nuggets’ perimeter shooting also improved, adding to the Lakers’ struggles.

Despite Anthony Davis’ efforts to rally the Lakers with 32 points, 14 rebounds, five assists, and four blocks, the Nuggets maintained control. Jamal Murray (22 points, 10 assists) and Aaron Gordon (12 points, 11 rebounds) also recorded double-doubles for Denver, while Michael Porter Jr. contributed 19 points and eight boards.

The Lakers’ shooting guard, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, scored all 12 of his points after halftime, including three crucial 3-pointers during a 13-0 run by the Nuggets in the third quarter.

Russell, however, struggled with his shooting after the first quarter, finishing with 13 points on 6-for-20 shooting.

The Lakers have not defeated the Nuggets since December 16, 2022. They will have another opportunity to break the streak in Game 2 on Monday night at Ball Arena, where Denver boasts an impressive 34-8 record this season.