Denver Nuggets Open Title Defense with Win Over Los Angeles Lakers

Nikola Jokic's Triple-Double Powers Denver to Ring Night Victory

Los Angeles Lakers vs Denver Nuggets - Full Game Highlights October 24

DENVER, Colo. - The Denver Nuggets opened the defense of their first NBA title with a 119-107 win over the Los Angeles Lakers on ESPN's ring night.

Nikola Jokic recorded a triple-double with 30 points, 14 rebounds, and 7 assists to lead the Nuggets. Jamal Murray added 25 points, while Aaron Gordon contributed 20 points and 10 rebounds.

The Lakers were led by LeBron James' 25 points, while Anthony Davis added 22 points and 10 rebounds. Russell Westbrook struggled off the bench, finishing with just 12 points on 4-of-15 shooting.

The Nuggets took control of the game early, building a 15-point lead in the first quarter. The Lakers fought back in the second quarter, but the Nuggets were able to maintain a lead at halftime.

In the third quarter, the Nuggets extended their lead to 20 points and never looked back. The Lakers made a late run in the fourth quarter, but it was too little, too late.

With the win, the Nuggets improve to 1-0 on the season, while the Lakers fall to 0-1.