Denver Nuggets vs Lakers Match Player Stats Complete Breakdown In one of the most anticipated matchups of the NBA season, the Denver Nuggets clashed with the Los Angeles Lakers in a thrilling contest that showcased elite talent, tactical brilliance, and individual excellence. This game did more than entertain—it provided a statistical masterclass that basketball analysts and fans alike will pore over for weeks. Below is the complete player stats breakdown of the Nuggets vs Lakers matchup, highlighting key performances, efficiency ratings, and impactful moments.
Game Overview: A Battle of Titans
The showdown between the defending champions Denver Nuggets and the iconic Los Angeles Lakers was nothing short of electric. Both teams entered the contest with high stakes, each looking to assert dominance in the Western Conference. The game featured a dynamic tempo, with fast breaks, deep threes, and physical paint battles.
Final Score: Denver Nuggets 117 – Los Angeles Lakers 110
Denver Nuggets Player Stats
Nikola Jokić – C
- Points: 34
- Rebounds: 14
- Assists: 9
- Field Goal %: 58% (13/22)
- 3PT %: 50% (2/4)
- Free Throws: 6/7
Jokić once again showcased why he is a perennial MVP candidate. His court vision, soft touch around the rim, and ability to control the pace make him the centerpiece of Denver’s offense. He flirted with another triple-double and was instrumental in closing out the fourth quarter.
Jamal Murray – PG
- Points: 26
- Assists: 7
- Rebounds: 5
- FG %: 52% (10/19)
- 3PT: 3/7
Murray played with poise and aggression, especially in transition. His ability to hit timely threes and penetrate the defense added constant pressure on the Lakers’ perimeter defenders.
Michael Porter Jr. – SF
- Points: 18
- Rebounds: 8
- FG %: 47%
- 3PT: 2/6
Porter Jr. contributed effectively as a secondary scorer. His length and athleticism on both ends provided valuable spacing and rim protection.
Aaron Gordon – PF
- Points: 12
- Rebounds: 9
- Blocks: 2
- Steals: 1
Gordon’s defense of LeBron James was a focal point of Denver’s strategy. His physicality, coupled with timely offensive rebounds, gave the Nuggets multiple second-chance opportunities.
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope – SG
- Points: 9
- Steals: 2
- FG %: 43%
KCP was vital in disrupting the Lakers’ perimeter movement. His effort on both ends, especially in clutch moments, was noticeable.
Los Angeles Lakers Player Stats
LeBron James – SF
- Points: 28
- Rebounds: 10
- Assists: 8
- FG %: 53% (11/21)
- 3PT: 3/5
LeBron led the Lakers in a valiant effort, displaying vintage explosiveness and court control. His ability to facilitate, score in isolation, and dominate physically was fully on display.
Anthony Davis – PF/C
- Points: 24
- Rebounds: 13
- Blocks: 3
- Steals: 2
- FG %: 50%
Davis was a force in the paint on both ends. His defensive rotations and rim protection challenged Denver’s interior offense, while offensively, he anchored the low post with finesse.
D’Angelo Russell – PG
- Points: 16
- Assists: 6
- Turnovers: 3
- 3PT: 2/6
Russell provided moments of offensive spark but struggled with Denver’s defensive pressure. His shot selection in critical moments was a talking point post-game.
Austin Reaves – SG
- Points: 11
- Rebounds: 4
- Assists: 3
Reaves played a gritty role, contributing to hustle plays and transition defense. His perimeter shooting was slightly off, but his effort remained consistent.
Rui Hachimura – PF
- Points: 10
- FG %: 45%
- Rebounds: 5
Hachimura added energy and physicality off the bench. His ability to hit mid-range jumpers and contest shots made a notable impact during his stints.
Bench Impact: Key Rotational Players
Denver Nuggets Bench
- Reggie Jackson: 8 PTS, 4 AST
- Christian Braun: 6 PTS, 5 REB, strong defensive energy
- Zeke Nnaji: 4 PTS, 2 BLK, 3 REB
The Nuggets’ bench delivered crucial minutes with high-effort plays, particularly Braun’s perimeter defense and Jackson’s second-unit ball handling.
Lakers Bench
- Gabe Vincent: 7 PTS, 2 STL
- Jarred Vanderbilt: 5 REB, 1 BLK
- Max Christie: 3 PTS in limited minutes
The Lakers’ bench was less efficient, often outscored and outpaced. The low offensive production from key bench players contributed to the late-game fade.
Team Comparison: Key Metrics
CategoryDenver NuggetsLos Angeles Lakers
FG % 51% 49%
3PT % 38% 35%
Free Throws 15/18 13/17
Rebounds 46 43
Turnovers 9 13
Assists 27 23
Fast Break Points 18 14
Points in the Paint 54 48
The Nuggets edged out in multiple key areas, notably in turnover differential, paint scoring, and assists, which ultimately sealed their advantage.
Tactical Highlights
- Denver’s high-post offense, led by Jokić, carved up the Lakers’ zone looks.
- The Lakers leaned on LeBron and AD in isolation, which led to fatigue in later quarters.
- Denver’s transition defense was sharper, limiting LeBron’s fast-break damage.
- Rebounding edge and better ball movement gave Denver a consistent offensive rhythm.
Player Efficiency Ratings (PER)
PlayerTeamPER
Nikola Jokić Nuggets 31.2
LeBron James Lakers 29.6
Jamal Murray Nuggets 24.3
Anthony Davis Lakers 25.0
Michael Porter Jr. Nuggets 19.4
Final Takeaways
The Denver Nuggets demonstrated championship-caliber composure and team chemistry, particularly in crunch time. With Jokić orchestrating the offense and Murray supporting with precision, Denver maintained consistent control. On the other side, LeBron James and Anthony Davis delivered elite-level performances but lacked sustained support from their supporting cast.
