Luka Doncic Leads Lakers Past Short-Handed Nuggets, Clinches Playoff Tiebreaker

The Lakers secured a 120-108 victory over the Nuggets, moving into third place in the Western Conference as both teams dealt with key injuries.

Luka Doncic scored 31 points, including 21 in the first quarter, as the Lakers dominated early with a season-high 46-point opening quarter.
The win marked the Lakers' ninth consecutive home victory and third straight overall, propelling them to third place in the Western Conference standings.
Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray missed their second consecutive game for the Nuggets due to injuries, while the Lakers were without LeBron James and Rui Hachimura.
Austin Reaves played a significant supporting role for the Lakers with 22 points and eight assists in the victory.
The Lakers clinched the postseason tiebreaker against the Nuggets, ensuring home-court advantage in a potential playoff matchup.