Deeper in the hole: Lakers face elimination after falling to Nuggets for a third consecutive game.

Focus on the Nuggets’ dominance

The Denver Nuggets are one win away from sweeping the Los Angeles Lakers out of the first round. Aaron Gordon (29 points, 15 rebounds) and Nikola Jokic (24 points, 15 rebounds, 9 assists) fueled a 112-105 Game 3 victory. The defending champions extended their win streak over the Lakers to 11 games and continue their postseason dominance in Los Angeles. Game 4 is Saturday, and history tells us the Lakers are in serious trouble—no NBA team has ever come back from a 3-0 deficit.
Anthony Davis had 33 points and 15 rebounds, and James added 26 points and nine assists in the Lakers’ seventh consecutive postseason loss to Denver over the past two years. Los Angeles hasn’t beaten the Nuggets since Dec. 16, 2022.

Lakers Face Elimination After Falling To Nuggets For A Third Consecutive Game 1

Lakers Fall to Nuggets in Game 3, Facing Elimination

Strong Start, Rough Finish

The Los Angeles Lakers, surging after the holidays and a clutch play-in win, faced a familiar foe in the Denver Nuggets. Despite strong performances from LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Lakers fell short in Game 3, putting them on the brink of elimination.

Missed Opportunities

A slow start from three-point range (missing 15 of their first 16 attempts) and a scoreless night from D’Angelo Russell hampered the Lakers’ offense. Meanwhile, Aaron Gordon had a breakout game for Denver, and Nikola Jokic nearly notched another playoff triple-double.

Nuggets Take Control

The Nuggets, building on their two wins in Denver to start the series, capitalized on the Lakers’ struggles. A strong third quarter, led by Gordon and Jamal Murray, gave Denver a comfortable lead they wouldn’t relinquish.

Frustration Mounts

After blowing a big lead in Game 2, the Lakers’ frustration was evident. Davis even commented on the team’s confusion when facing Denver’s offensive versatility.

Looking Ahead

With a home-court disadvantage and key players like Jarred Vanderbilt, Cam Reddish, and Christian Wood still injured, the Lakers face an uphill battle to avoid elimination. Coach Darvin Ham hinted at potential roster changes coming soon.