NBA 2023: Scores, Results, Updates, Latest News - Denver Nuggets vs LA Lakers, Highlights - Golden State Warriors vs Phoenix Suns

The Denver Nuggets defeat the LA Lakers in the NBA season opener with a triple-double performance by Nikola Jokic.

In the season opener of the NBA, the Denver Nuggets made a strong statement by defeating the LA Lakers with a score of 119-107. The reigning Finals MVP, Nikola Jokic, showcased his skills with an impressive triple-double performance, scoring 29 points, grabbing 13 rebounds, and dishing out 11 assists. Jokic received great support from Jamal Murray, who contributed 21 points and six assists, and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who added 20 points to the Nuggets' victory. On the Lakers' side, LeBron James led the team in scoring with 21 points.

The game between the Nuggets and the Lakers carried some added intensity due to their previous encounter in the Western Conference Finals. Anthony Davis had previously made remarks about the Nuggets, referring to them as "a lot of the talking" and even making a comment about their coach, Mike Malone, as "Lakers' dad" after the Lakers' championship win. However, it was time for the teams to let their basketball skills speak for themselves.

Right from the start, the Nuggets displayed their dominance on the court. The atmosphere in the Ball Arena was electric, as the team celebrated their championship win with a pre-game ring ceremony and the raising of their first-ever championship banner. The Nuggets took advantage of this energy and built a significant lead of up to 18 points during parts of the second quarter, putting the Lakers in a tough position.

Even though the Lakers faced some challenges, including LeBron James experiencing rare moments of struggle, such as getting blocked by Christian Braun and Reggie Jackson hitting a three-pointer in front of him after James fell to the ground, they fought back. Towards the end of the second quarter and again in the third quarter, the Lakers made a comeback, closing the gap and reducing Denver's lead to 87-80 by the end of the third quarter.

In the final quarter, the Lakers continued their push, with James hitting a crucial three-pointer that brought them within three points at 92-89. However, the Nuggets responded well, taking advantage of James' absence from the court and extending their lead to double digits. Nikola Jokic played a key role during this period, hitting a three-pointer and a mid-range jumper. The Nuggets maintained their composure and executed their plays effectively, ultimately securing a comfortable victory.

As the game came to a close, the home fans couldn't help but taunt the Lakers, chanting "who's your daddy?" in a playful manner. The Nuggets started their season on a perfect note, delighting their supporters and setting a strong tone for the games to come.

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