The Denver Nuggets defeated the Los Angeles Lakers, 118-112, on Thursday to send them to their first loss of the season. Entering the fourth quarter the Nuggets were down 93-85, but the team came out and outscored the Lakers, 33-19, to secure the victory. Point guard Ty Lawson was essential during the final quarter, scoring 11 of his 17 points. He also had five assists over the course of the game.
Carmelo Anthony posted a double-double with 32 points and 13 rebounds. Contrary to what Charles Barkley said during halftime on TNT, Anthony looked like he was out there to win, not to just put up points. Nene added 18 points and Chauncey Billups had 15. J.R, Smith also had a solid game of 13 points, five rebounds, four assists and a steal.
As a team, the Nuggets shot 48.9 percent on field goals and made 80.6 percent of their free throws.
For the Lakers, Kobe Bryant scored 34 points and gave out five assists. Pau Gasol also turned in a typical performance, scoring 17 points and grabbing 20 off the boards. Shannon Brown had 19 points off the bench.
The Nuggets are 5-4 on the season, and the Lakers are now 8-1.