The victory offered plenty of promise for the new-look Lakers, with Luka Doncic, acquired at the deadline, going off for 32 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists in his best game since being traded to Los Angeles. After the win, head coach JJ Redick offered some fiery words for his team in the locker room.

Winners of 13 of their last 14 against the Lakers and eight consecutive head-to-head matchups at home, the Nuggets (37-20) were taken out of their comfort zone by a new-look Los Angeles roster. Anthony Davis was the player cashed in for Doncic, but somehow it was the Lakers’ defense that affected the hosts most. Denver shot 40% from the floor.

Trips here have basically all gone the same the past two seasons, the Lakers showing signs that they might’ve figured out ways to exploit enough of the Nuggets’