Thu Mar 20 04:30:00 UTC 2025: **Nuggets Edge Out Injury-Ridden Lakers in Close Contest**
DENVER, CO – The Denver Nuggets narrowly defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 131-126 on Friday night, despite a valiant effort from a severely depleted Lakers team. The Lakers were missing four starters, including star guard Luka Doncic, who sat out due to left calf injury management and a right ankle sprain. LeBron James also missed his third consecutive game with a left groin strain.
Austin Reaves led the Lakers’ charge with 37 points, and Dalton Knecht added 32, nearly pulling off an upset against the Nuggets. Despite trailing by double digits in the third quarter, the Lakers rallied to take a 126-123 lead with under a minute remaining. However, a three-point play by Nikola Jokic tied the game, and a late three-pointer by Jamal Murray, followed by a steal and dunk by Russell Westbrook, sealed the win for Denver.
Nuggets coach Michael Malone praised the Lakers’ effort, acknowledging the game was closer than it should have been against a team missing so many key players. Lakers coach JJ Redick expressed pride in his team’s resilience and fight despite the loss, their fourth in a row. LeBron James, along with several other injured Lakers players, returned to Los Angeles, with their status for upcoming games to be evaluated on a day-to-day basis. Bronny James, LeBron’s son, saw action for the Lakers, contributing 5 points in 16 minutes of playing time.
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