Game-winning shot! Lakers defeat Nuggets! 41-year-old LeBron James makes epic save.

“Be tougher!”

In this Western Conference showdown, both teams fielded their full starting lineups. The Lakers led 61-50 at halftime.

Four of the Lakers' starting five scored double-digit points in the first half, while Ayton only managed 1 point via 1-of-4 free throws and committed 2 turnovers, struggling to capitalize even when guarded by a single defender near the basket.

If Ayton, as the starting center, disappears against strong teams, even failing to execute basic plays, and is frequently targeted defensively, he will undoubtedly become a major obstacle for the Lakers' championship pursuit this season.

In the third quarter, led by Jokic, the Nuggets fought back fiercely, scoring 37-26 to tie the game, bringing both teams back to level footing.

The Lakers' defensive consistency has always been fragile, unable to be masked by any amount of offensive brilliance.

During the tense final moments, Gordon showed no fear against Ayton's defense, launching a pull-up three-pointer to signal the counterattack.

At the end of regulation, Reaves intentionally missed a free throw, successfully grabbed the offensive rebound, and hit a floater to save the Lakers and force overtime.

In overtime, Ayton finally toughened up, showcasing the talent of a No. 1 pick from the 2018 draft. He scored consecutively over Jokic and delivered a big block, laying a solid foundation for Doncic's near-game-winning shot.

At the end of the game, the Lakers avoided a 17-point comeback by the Nuggets at home, narrowly defeating their opponent 127-125.

Four Lakers players scored double-digit points: Doncic with 30 points, 11 rebounds, 13 assists, and 3 blocks; Reaves with 32 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists; James with 17 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 steals; Smart hit 5 three-pointers for 21 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and 5 steals.

For the Nuggets, the "Lakers' nemesis" Murray was severely off-target, shooting 1-of-14 for only 5 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists. Jokic's massive triple-double of 24 points, 16 rebounds, 14 assists, plus 5 steals couldn't save the team. Gordon, who repeatedly made heroic plays, finished with 27 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists, falling just short.

Finally, tribute to 41-year-old LeBron James for his epic diving save, inspiring the entire team with his fighting spirit.

The oldest on the court was also the most relentless; competitiveness does not fade with age.