The Lakers vs Denver Nuggets timeline is a story of change. For decades, the Lakers dominated, but in recent years, the Nuggets have turned the tide. This rivalry now represents a dramatic shift in NBA power, where once the Lakers ruled, Denver now stands tall. With each series, the storyline deepens—new stars rise, classic names fade, and history is rewritten with each buzzer-beater and playoff clash.
Whether you’re a longtime NBA fan or just getting to know these teams, exploring the full timeline of the Lakers vs Nuggets rivalry gives you a clear picture of how it all evolved. From the flashy Showtime Lakers to today’s clutch-heavy Nuggets led by Nikola Jokić, this matchup is one of the most exciting narratives in modern basketball.
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Introduction to the Lakers vs Nuggets Timeline
The Lakers vs Nuggets timeline officially started in the late 1970s, when the Denver Nuggets joined the NBA from the ABA. Since then, they’ve faced each other in countless memorable games—both regular season and postseason. While the Lakers dominated early on thanks to legends like Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, the narrative has shifted in recent years, especially after 2020.
This timeline doesn’t just show scores; it shows growth. For Denver, beating the Lakers has symbolized progress. For the Lakers, every loss to Denver challenges their historic dominance. This rivalry isn’t just about wins and losses—it’s about eras clashing, philosophies colliding, and new NBA kings being crowned.
Lakers vs Denver Nuggets Timeline (1979–2025)
| No. | Year | Event | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1979 | First Playoff Meeting | Lakers win series 2–1 |
| 2 | 1985 | Western Conference Finals | Lakers win series 4–1 |
| 3 | 1987 | First Round Playoffs | Lakers sweep 3–0 |
| 4 | 2008 | First Round Playoffs | Lakers sweep 4–0 |
| 5 | 2009 | Western Conference Finals | Lakers win series 4–2 |
| 6 | 2012 | First Round Playoffs | Lakers win series 4–3 |
| 7 | 2020 | Western Conference Finals | Lakers win series 4–1 |
| 8 | 2023 | Western Conference Finals | Nuggets sweep 4–0 |
| 9 | 2024 | First Round Playoffs | Nuggets win series 4–1 |
| 10 | 2025 | Regular Season Matchups | Series tied 2–2 |
The early years of the Lakers vs Denver Nuggets timeline began shortly after Denver joined the NBA in 1976. Their first regular-season meetings were filled with fast-paced basketball, as both teams embraced high-scoring styles. The Lakers, armed with experienced stars, often overpowered the relatively newer Nuggets. These games were usually exciting and intense, offering fans a glimpse of a potential rivalry that would take shape more seriously in later years. The Nuggets, with young talents like David Thompson and Dan Issel, were competitive but still learning to handle the star power that the Lakers brought to the court every night.
Their first playoff meeting came in 1979, marking the beginning of postseason competition between the two. That series, although short, was fierce. The Lakers defeated the Nuggets 2–1 in a best-of-three format. Magic Johnson, who had just entered the league, would later become the face of L.A.’s dynasty, but even then, he showed signs of greatness. The Nuggets fought hard, and though they lost, they established that they wouldn’t be a team that backed down. This series became the starting point for a growing tension between both teams that would last for decades and lead to many classic postseason matchups.
Lakers’ Dominance Era: 1980s
During the 1980s, the Lakers solidified themselves as one of the NBA’s most dominant forces, and the Lakers vs Nuggets timeline tilted heavily in favor of Los Angeles. Led by Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and James Worthy, the Lakers ran through the Western Conference with a mix of skill, speed, and style known as “Showtime.” The Nuggets, though competitive, could not match the Lakers’ depth or execution in high-pressure moments. In the 1985 Western Conference Finals, the Lakers overwhelmed the Nuggets in five games. Magic orchestrated the offense with precision, and Kareem controlled the paint with his famous skyhook, leaving Denver scrambling to keep up.
The 1987 first-round matchup further emphasized the gap between the two teams. The Lakers swept the Nuggets 3–0 with complete control in every game. While Denver had offensive firepower with Alex English and Fat Lever, their defense couldn’t contain the Lakers’ explosive transition game. Every time these two teams met in the postseason during the ’80s, it felt like Denver was hitting a wall they couldn’t break through. This era was a reminder of how far the Nuggets still had to go to be seen as a true Western Conference powerhouse, while the Lakers continued their march to multiple NBA championships.
Intervening Years: 1990s–2000s
The 1990s were quieter in terms of high-stakes matchups between the Lakers and Nuggets. Neither team crossed paths in the playoffs, and while the Lakers remained relevant, the Nuggets struggled to find consistency. Still, their regular-season games held value. With the Lakers transitioning from the Magic Johnson era into the Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant phase, every game was a chance for the Nuggets to test themselves against one of the league’s most iconic teams. Denver experienced highs and lows, with occasional wins over the Lakers giving their fans something to cheer about in otherwise tough seasons.
In the 2000s, things began heating up again, especially when Denver started building a solid core with Carmelo Anthony, Marcus Camby, and Chauncey Billups. The 2008 NBA Playoffs marked their first playoff series since the ’80s. Unfortunately for Denver, the result was another sweep. The Lakers, led by Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol, were too efficient. Kobe dominated with scoring outbursts, including a 49-point performance in Game 2. This sweep sent a message: the Lakers were back in championship form. But Denver was also on the rise, and their 2009 rematch in the Western Conference Finals would show just how far they’d come.
Renewed Rivalry: 2010s
The early 2010s brought a more competitive balance in the Lakers vs Denver Nuggets timeline, especially with the 2012 playoff series standing out. The Nuggets, led by Ty Lawson and Kenneth Faried, pushed the Lakers to a full seven-game series in the first round. The Lakers still had Kobe Bryant, along with a strong interior presence in Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol. Denver nearly pulled off an upset, but ultimately, the Lakers won the series 4–3. It was a physical and emotional battle, with each team showing grit. Although Denver fell short, it was a sign that the gap was narrowing.
From 2013 to 2019, their regular-season meetings showcased flashes of the growing shift. The Nuggets were building something special with the emergence of Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray. Meanwhile, the Lakers were going through a rebuilding phase post-Kobe. Denver’s ball movement and unselfish style of play gave them an edge in several games during this period. Though no playoff matchups occurred in these years, you could feel the energy change. The Nuggets were no longer intimidated by the purple and gold. They were evolving into contenders, setting up the next chapter in their ongoing rivalry.
The Modern Era: 2020s
The modern era of the Lakers vs Denver Nuggets timeline has completely changed the dynamic between the two teams. In 2020, inside the NBA bubble, they faced off in the Western Conference Finals. The Lakers, now led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, defeated the Nuggets 4–1. It seemed like history would repeat itself, with the Lakers once again outmatching Denver in the postseason. However, the Nuggets showed heart and talent, with Nikola Jokić playing a major role in every game. The series felt closer than the score suggested, and it proved that Denver had the foundation to become a true rival.
Then came the revenge. In 2023, the Nuggets finally flipped the script by sweeping the Lakers 4–0 in the Western Conference Finals. This was a monumental moment in the rivalry. Jokić delivered one of the most dominant playoff performances in recent memory, averaging near triple-doubles, while Jamal Murray stepped up in clutch moments. In 2024, the Nuggets faced the Lakers again in the first round and won the series 4–1. This back-to-back playoff dominance showed that Denver wasn’t just competing anymore—they were now the team to beat. With the 2025 regular season split 2–2, the rivalry feels balanced but tense, and the power has truly shifted in Denver’s favor.
Statistical Overview of the Lakers vs Nuggets Rivalry
Over the decades, the Lakers vs Denver Nuggets timeline has accumulated a rich statistical history. In regular-season matchups, the Lakers have historically held a strong lead, reflecting their overall dominance in the Western Conference. As of the 2025 season, the two teams have played more than 230 regular-season games, with the Lakers winning the majority. However, the recent seasons have seen a significant shift, with Denver winning more frequently, particularly after 2020. This reversal of fortunes is evident when comparing win streaks: the Lakers had long stretches of success during the 1980s and 2000s, while the Nuggets began building their own streaks in the 2020s.
In the playoffs, the Lakers have won seven out of the nine postseason series against Denver. These series range from early best-of-three formats in the 1970s to full Western Conference Finals battles in modern times. The Lakers dominated early on, sweeping or winning comfortably in series during 1985, 1987, 2008, and 2009. But the tide changed in 2023 and 2024, when the Nuggets won back-to-back series, including their first ever playoff sweep of the Lakers. These recent victories have evened the psychological balance of the rivalry and redefined what fans expect when these two franchises meet in the postseason.
Impactful Players Shaping the Lakers vs Nuggets Timeline
Throughout the Lakers vs Nuggets timeline, iconic players have left their mark and helped shape the narrative of this evolving rivalry. On the Lakers’ side, names like Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and James Worthy defined the dominance of the 1980s, with Magic’s no-look passes and Kareem’s unstoppable skyhook punishing the Nuggets. The 2000s brought the Kobe Bryant era, where he repeatedly dismantled Denver’s defenses, most memorably in the 2009 Western Conference Finals. Later, LeBron James and Anthony Davis took the torch, especially in the 2020 playoffs where they led the Lakers to another series victory over Denver.
For the Nuggets, the rise of Carmelo Anthony in the mid-2000s gave them a true superstar capable of challenging L.A. Melo had intense scoring duels with Kobe, and his leadership helped Denver reach the Conference Finals in 2009. However, the most defining era came with Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray. Jokić, a two-time MVP, has redefined the center position with his vision and passing. His performances in the 2023 and 2024 playoff victories over the Lakers were nothing short of historic. Alongside him, Murray’s clutch shooting and fearless play have become a nightmare for Lakers defenses. These players have elevated the rivalry from a one-sided history to a true competitive saga.
Memorable Moments in the Lakers vs Nuggets Rivalry
The Lakers vs Denver Nuggets timeline is full of unforgettable moments that live in the minds of fans long after the final buzzer. One of the earliest came in 1985, when the Lakers dismantled Denver in the Western Conference Finals with dominant play from Magic and Kareem. Fast forward to 2009, and you’ll find Kobe Bryant hitting dagger shots in Game 6 to seal another Conference Finals win. One of the most iconic moments happened in 2020, when Anthony Davis hit a buzzer-beating three-pointer in Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals, giving the Lakers a 2–0 series lead in the bubble and showcasing AD’s ability to shine under pressure.
Recent years have given Nuggets fans their own highlights. In the 2023 playoffs, Jokić’s all-around brilliance, including multiple triple-doubles, helped Denver sweep the Lakers and reach their first NBA Finals. One particularly memorable moment came when Jamal Murray drilled a game-winner in Game 2 of that series, flipping momentum completely in Denver’s favor. In 2024, he did it again, hitting another clutch shot in Game 5 to knock the Lakers out. These moments haven’t just shaped individual games—they’ve flipped the balance of the rivalry itself. Each dramatic finish, each heroic performance adds another layer to this rivalry’s growing legacy.
Future Outlook of the Lakers vs Nuggets Rivalry
Looking forward, the Lakers vs Nuggets timeline appears far from over. Both teams are entering a new phase with evolving rosters and shifting strategies. The Nuggets are expected to maintain their core of Jokić, Murray, and Porter Jr. for years to come, while continuing to build depth around them. Their chemistry and youth give them an edge, especially in a Western Conference that is becoming increasingly competitive. With Jokić at the peak of his career and Murray recovering fully from past injuries, Denver seems positioned to dominate for the foreseeable future, especially if they continue their playoff success against top-tier teams like the Lakers.
On the other hand, the Lakers are at a crossroads. LeBron James is nearing the twilight of his career, and although he remains a force, the franchise needs to focus on its next generation. Anthony Davis is expected to continue as the centerpiece, but questions remain about surrounding him with the right talent. The Lakers will likely use their high draft picks and free agency flexibility to reload quickly. With both franchises committed to winning, more playoff matchups seem inevitable. And with recent playoff history still fresh, future meetings promise to be just as intense, if not more personal, as each team looks to outdo the other.
For fans who enjoy deep stat breakdowns, you might also want to check out our analysis of the Timberwolves vs Lakers Timeline, where we covered top performers, key plays, and full team stats from that exciting game.
FAQs About Lakers vs Denver Nuggets Timeline
1. How many times have the Lakers and Nuggets met in the playoffs?
They’ve met nine times in the NBA playoffs. The Lakers have won seven series, and the Nuggets have won two, including their first sweep in 2023.
2. What is the Lakers’ all-time record against the Nuggets?
As of 2025, the Lakers lead the all-time series, both in regular season and playoffs, although Denver has won the last two playoff matchups.
3. When did the Nuggets first beat the Lakers in a playoff series?
The Nuggets first beat the Lakers in a playoff series in 2023, sweeping them 4–0 in the Western Conference Finals.
4. Who are the top players in this rivalry’s history?
For the Lakers: Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James. For the Nuggets: Alex English, Carmelo Anthony, Nikola Jokić, and Jamal Murray.
5. What’s the most recent game between the Lakers and Nuggets?
The most recent matchup was in the 2025 regular season, where the Lakers defeated the Nuggets 120–108, snapping a losing streak.
Conclusion: The Legacy of the Lakers vs Nuggets Timeline
The Lakers vs Denver Nuggets timeline tells a story far deeper than wins and losses. It’s a rivalry shaped by eras, legends, underdogs, and dominant champions. What started as a lopsided relationship has grown into a fierce competition that defines much of the Western Conference’s recent history. From Magic and Kareem to Jokić and Murray, the players may change, but the intensity remains the same. The past may belong to the Lakers, but the present—and perhaps the future—may be Denver’s time to shine.
Fans from both sides now know that when the Lakers and Nuggets face off, it’s not just another game. It’s a battle filled with pride, history, and the promise of greatness. As future matchups await, one thing is certain—this rivalry is far from finished. The timeline continues, and every new game adds another unforgettable chapter.
