On March 14, 2025, the Denver Nuggets triumphed over the shorthanded Los Angeles Lakers with a thrilling score of 131-126, thanks to late-game heroics from Jamal Murray and Russell Westbrook.
With only 5.6 seconds left on the clock, Jamal Murray sank a clutch 3-pointer to put the Nuggets up front. His performance capped off a solid night where he scored 26 points, alongside Westbrook's momentum-shifting dunk following his interception of Rui Hachimura's inbound pass. The play served as not just the finishing touch to the game but also the highlight of the night for the complacent crowd at Ball Arena.
This matchup saw the Lakers struggle without some of their biggest stars, including LeBron James, who missed his third consecutive game due to a left groin strain. James, having to rest alongside teammates Rui Hachimura and Jaxson Hayes due to injuries, left the Lakers needing to rely heavily on other players. Austin Reaves stepped up, scoring 37 points, along with Dalton Knecht, who contributed 32 points.
The absence of key players put the Lakers at a disadvantage, yet they fought hard and even managed to take the lead 126-121 with only 52 seconds left. This surge was fueled by a 19-9 run to close the third quarter, cutting the Nuggets’ lead down from 13 points.
Nikola Jokic played admirably for Denver with 28 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists, helping to offset the Lakers’ fierce comeback. But even with Jokic’s strong performance and Murray's late clutch shot, Nuggets coach Michael Malone raised concerns during his postgame press conference about their inability to maintain distance from the struggling Lakers. "There are enough red flags for us not to feel satisfied with this win," Malone remarked.
Westbrook, who returned to the Lakers matchup as part of the Nuggets lineup, made significant contributions of his own. He recorded 17 points, 7 assists, and 6 rebounds, making him indispensable to the Nuggets' strategy. This game became momentous for Westbrook, reaching his 300th rebound milestone for the season and tying Jason Kidd for the most seasons of at least 300 rebounds by any point guard in NBA history.
Despite being under the weather, Westbrook not only delivered against the Lakers but also showcased his experience on the court. With averages of 12.9 points, 6.0 assists, and 5.0 rebounds, Westbrook proved he still has plenty to offer at 36 years old.
Reflecting on the game, fans took to social media to show their appreciation for Westbrook’s performance against his former team, dubbing him the standout player of the night. He has showcased his ability to impact games beyond just scoring, making him key as playoffs approach.
The Nuggets are now focusing on maintaining their position as they prepare to host the Washington Wizards next, hoping to build momentum going forward with their fifth game over seven days. Meanwhile, the Lakers, who are aiming to break their losing streak, will return home to face the Phoenix Suns, continuing their attempt to stabilize after their recent turmoil.
While both teams look to polish their game strategies for the playoffs, this encounter demonstrated the raw resolve found throughout the NBA. Murray, Westbrook, and Reaves put on quite the show, reminding fans and analysts alike why basketball captivates so many.
Each player faces magnified expectations as the season wanes, but if this game is any indication of heart and hustle, both teams may yet have significant runs left heading toward the postseason.