This is how the 'new' Luka Doncic leads the Los Angeles Lakers

In a game where both teams had multiple absences, the presence of Luka Doncic made the difference for the Los Angeles Lakers.

With 31 points from the star that many believe Los Angeles should have never let go, the Lakers dominated the Denver Nuggets with a convincing 120-108 victory this Wednesday, securing their third consecutive win. The Los Angeles team was never behind and even had a lead of up to 30 points during the game.

Doncic had a standout performance with 10 of 21 from the field (4 of 9 from the three-point line), in addition to nine rebounds, seven assists, and six turnovers. His impact was immediate, scoring 21 points in the first quarter where the Lakers took control, leading 46-29.

The Nuggets faced the game with limited expectations after confirming the absences of Nikola Jokic (elbow/ankle) and Jamal Murray (ankle). On the other hand, the Lakers were also without LeBron James (groin) and Rui Hachimura (knee), although that did not stop them from setting the pace from the beginning.

Despite the difference, Denver tried to stage a comeback in the third quarter, managing to reduce the deficit but without putting the Lakers' victory in jeopardy. Towards the end, the fans at the Crypto.com Arena were already celebrating Doncic's performance and calling for Bronny James to enter the game in his 21st NBA appearance.

Aaron Gordon took on Denver's offensive leadership with 26 points and 11 rebounds, while Russell Westbrook contributed 12 points on 4 of 14 shooting from the field and nine assists.

With this win, the Lakers improve their record to 43-25, surpassing the Nuggets in losses (44-26) and positioning themselves just two victories away from the second place held by the Houston Rockets (45-25). Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder remains comfortably at the top of the West with a record of 57-12, although the competition for the top spots in the conference remains open.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Así lidera a Los Angeles Lakers el "nuevo" Luka Doncic