Nikola Jokic orchestrated a stellar performance, tallying 24 points, 15 rebounds, and nine assists, propelling the Denver Nuggets to a 112-105 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday.
With this win, the Nuggets find themselves one step closer to clinching a spot in the Western Conference semifinals.
Aaron Gordon contributed significantly with 29 points and 15 rebounds, bolstering the Nuggets’ dominance as they now hold a commanding 3-0 lead in the best-of-seven series.
Jamal Murray showcased his scoring prowess with 22 points, while Michael Porter Jr. added 20 points and 10 rebounds, further solidifying the Nuggets’ stronghold over the Lakers.
Impressively, this victory marks Denver’s 11th consecutive win against the Lakers, including seven straight playoff triumphs dating back to last year’s conference finals sweep.
Lakers haven’t beat the Nuggets since December 2022 😬
LA is one game away from elimination after falling to 0-3 pic.twitter.com/4SIaKZ6Ouy
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 26, 2024
The reigning NBA champions have the opportunity to seal their passage to the next round as early as Saturday in Game 4 at Los Angeles.
Despite a valiant effort from Anthony Davis, who recorded 33 points and 15 rebounds, and LeBron James, who chipped in with 26 points and nine assists, the Lakers find themselves on their first losing streak of at least three games since the start of the new year.
Austin Reaves provided a spark off the bench with 22 points, but D’Angelo Russell struggled to find his rhythm, failing to score in 24 minutes of play.