DENVER — In recent seasons, games in Denver typically unfolded in a familiar pattern, with the Lakers attempting to exploit the Nuggets’ weaknesses, only for Denver to tighten up and maintain control.

For eight consecutive contests, including five playoff matchups, the Lakers traveled to Denver and exited with a defeat, struggling to overcome the Nuggets.

However, the Lakers displayed an unprecedented level of consistency on Saturday, executing a nearly flawless performance. They succeeded in disrupting Nikola Jokic, forcing the three-time MVP to make inaccurate passes that went astray from his targets.

Moreover, the Lakers had never previously fielded Luka Doncic during their losing streak.

In his fourth game since a stunning trade for Anthony Davis, Doncic seemed completely at ease. Despite missing his initial shot, he quickly settled into the game.

The Lakers delivered a commanding performance during a 123-100 victory, a feat they hadn’t accomplished since the 2020 playoffs. Doncic shone with 32 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists, helping to break both their eight-game losing streak in Denver and the Nuggets’ nine-game winning run.

Throughout the match, Doncic showcased his skills with step-back threes, precise full-court passes, and alley-oops, all while displaying an assertive demeanor towards officials and the crowd, highlighting his dominance.

“He exhibited that fire and passion we’ve missed,” said forward Jarred Vanderbilt. “We’ve encouraged him to play his game, be himself. We love that intensity, and he truly brought it tonight.”

Lakers guard Luka Doncic shares a laugh during the thrilling encounter against the Denver Nuggets.

(David Zalubowski / Associated Press)

LeBron James, who benefitted from a brilliant pass from Doncic while making a fast break early in the game and received a lob later, contributed 25 points. Austin Reaves added 23, and Rui Hachimura chipped in 21 points. James’ passes, in particular, hinted at the potential synergy between him and Doncic for the Lakers (34-21).

“It requires time, but you could see glimpses of that in our first game together,” Doncic remarked. “I’m thrilled to have executed my first alley-oop with him.”

“… I’m sure he’ll throw one to me next time.”

The Lakers’ defensive strategy was as noteworthy as their explosive offense, forcing the Nuggets into 20 turnovers. Hachimura, James, Dorian Finney-Smith, and Vanderbilt consistently denied Jokic the ball effectively.

“To achieve success and secure wins over the long run, we must fully commit to our strategy,” stated James. “Our personnel allows us to zero in and execute a meticulous game plan on both ends, which we demonstrated tonight.”

Lakers star LeBron James executes a dunk during the first half against the Nuggets.

(David Zalubowski / Associated Press)

Coach JJ Redick expressed his enthusiasm regarding the challenge posed by the Nuggets, especially considering the Lakers had lost 13 of their past 14 encounters against Denver.

Redick is particularly drawn to the problem-solving aspect of coaching, and the Nuggets, led by Jokic, have posed significant challenges for the Lakers over the last couple of seasons. In his interview for the Lakers’ position, Redick was tasked with analyzing game footage from a Lakers-Nuggets match.

It was evident that this game held great significance for Redick.

“There are pivotal moments in the season when you really gear up,” Redick commented. “I hardly slept after our last game on Thursday in Portland. I dedicated substantial time to this matchup. Our coaching staff invested significant effort into this game as well. I imagined our players putting forth maximum effort, and they exceeded my expectations. They truly competed tonight, which was remarkable.”

In this game, Jokic attempted only seven shots, matching his lowest total of the season. He ended the night with 13 rebounds and 12 points for the Nuggets (37-20).

The Lakers strategically directed shots toward Russell Westbrook and Aaron Gordon, and even when both managed to sink some baskets, Los Angeles maintained their game plan.

“That was outstanding,” Vanderbilt remarked. “We focus on executing our strategy for the full 48 minutes, regardless of whether it’s working. Even when Gordon and Russ hit some shots, we didn’t deviate from our approach.”

The Lakers are now just one game behind Denver in the loss column, competing for third place in the Western Conference.

“I can’t recall the last time I won here,” Doncic stated. “It’s incredibly challenging to play against that team in this arena. Achieving a victory like this is outstanding for us and significantly boosts my confidence moving forward.”