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Victor Petkov
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3 min read

Nuggets beats narrowly Doncic-less Lakers
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Jamal Murray scored decisive 3-pointer with 5.6 seconds left on the clock

Jamal Murray drilled a clutch 3-pointer with 5.6 seconds remaining, and Russell Westbrook sealed the deal with a steal and a dunk as the Denver Nuggets held off the depleted Los Angeles Lakers 131-126 on Friday night.

Murray finished with 26 points, while Nikola Jokić led the Nuggets with 28. Despite the win, Denver coach Michael Malone expressed concerns over his team’s performance, frustrated by their struggles against a shorthanded Lakers squad.

Austin Reaves exploded for a career-high 37 points, and rookie Dalton Knecht added 32 for Los Angeles, who were missing several key players. LeBron James (left groin strain), Luka Dončić (calf injury and right ankle sprain), Rui Hachimura, Jaxson Hayes, Dorian Finney-Smith, and Gabe Vincent were all sidelined.

Despite being undermanned, the Lakers put up a fierce fight, rallying from a double-digit deficit to take a 126-123 lead with 52 seconds left. However, Jokić tied the game with a three-point play, Reaves missed a crucial mid-range jumper, and Murray’s dagger three secured Denver’s victory.

James’ son, Bronny, was recalled from the G League and contributed five points in limited minutes.

The loss marks the Lakers’ fourth straight, while the Nuggets continue to fight for positioning in the Western Conference standings.