The Los Angeles Lakers have struggled in recent years against the Denver Nuggets, but Saturday night, everything clicked for the first time since they acquired 25-year-old superstar Luka Doncic in a trade over two weeks ago.
In his fourth game as a Laker, Doncic led the team to a dominant 123-100 victory, finishing with a game-high 32 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists, and four steals. The Lakers never looked back after taking an early lead, and their chemistry on the court, especially between Doncic and LeBron James, was undeniable.
"I'm a natural-born wide receiver, and he's a natural-born quarterback, so it fits perfectly."
– LeBron on he and Luka's budding fullcourt connection 👀 pic.twitter.com/d7nrmXMqVx
— NBA (@NBA) February 23, 2025
James added 25 points, nine rebounds, five assists, and three blocks, while the Lakers limited their turnovers to just eight, while the Nuggets committed 20. After the game, James shared a head-turning analogy about the growing chemistry between him and Doncic as they continue grow as teammates together.
“I’m a natural-born wide receiver, and he’s a natural-born quarterback, so it fits perfectly.” James said.
The Lakers are now 2-2 with Doncic and stand at 34-21 overall, trailing the Nuggets by just two games for the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference after pulling off a big-time victory as underdogs.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23)
© Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images
However, the focus now shifts to their next game on Tuesday night, which is expected to be full of drama. Doncic will make his return to Dallas for the first time since being traded unexpectedly for Anthony Davis in one of the most shocking deals in NBA history.
Less than a year ago, Doncic led the Mavericks to the NBA Finals and was coming off five consecutive All-NBA First Team selections. However, the Dallas front office, led by general manager Nico Harrison, had a different vision for the future—one that didn’t center around the Slovenian superstar.