Get ready for a thrilling NBA recap that will have you on the edge of your seat! The Los Angeles Lakers pulled off an incredible comeback against the Denver Nuggets, showcasing their resilience and star power.
In a highly anticipated matchup on January 20, 2026, the Lakers, led by the remarkable Luka Doncic, who put up a monstrous triple-double with 38 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists, rallied from a 16-point deficit to secure a 115-107 victory over the Nuggets. But here's where it gets controversial... LeBron James, the NBA legend, was notably absent from the All-Star starter lineup for the first time since his rookie days, yet he still managed to contribute 19 points for the Lakers.
Jamal Murray, the Nuggets' star guard, had a hot hand in the first half, scoring 26 of his 28 points, but his impact waned in the second half, shooting just 1 for 5. Despite being short-handed and missing key players like Nikola Jokic, who has been out with a hyperextended knee, the Nuggets led by 16 in the third quarter, with Aaron Gordon and Peyton Watson stepping up with 18 points each.
This game added fuel to the fire of the budding rivalry between these two Western Conference powerhouses, especially after the Nuggets swept the Lakers in the 2023 Western Conference finals en route to their NBA championship. It seemed like history would repeat itself as the Nuggets jumped out to an early lead, but the Lakers fought back with a dominant third quarter, outscoring Denver 29-17 to close the gap.
The fourth quarter was a back-and-forth battle, but the Lakers took control with a decisive 16-0 run, led by Doncic's clutch free throws, turning a two-point deficit into an insurmountable 108-96 lead. And this is the part most people miss: the Lakers' depth and resilience were on full display as they played the second half without their starting center, Deandre Ayton, due to an eye injury.
So, what's next for these teams? The Lakers head back to Los Angeles for a showdown with the Clippers on Thursday night, while the Nuggets embark on a three-game road trip, starting in Washington on Thursday. Who will emerge victorious in these upcoming battles? Only time will tell.
What do you think? Was this comeback a sign of the Lakers' championship potential, or did the Nuggets' injuries play a significant role? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss!
