The Denver Nuggets defeated the visiting Los Angeles Lakers, 114-103, in Game 1 of the Western Conference First-Round Playoffs at Ball Arena on Saturday.

Los Angeles had a team-high 12-point lead in the second quarter, but Denver ripped off an 18-8 run to tie the game just before the half. That run set the foundation for a dominant third quarter, with the Nuggets riding a 13-0 run at the end of a 32-18 third quarter to their win. They led by at least six points for the closing 15 minutes after that 13-0 spurt. The Nuggets shot 36 percent from three-point range (15-of-42), while the Lakers shot 28 percent (8-of-29). Denver also recorded 27 assists to four turnovers, while LA had 22 assists to 12 turnovers. While there were only two lead changes, there were 11 ties in this competitive Game 1.

The Lakers (0-1) were led by Anthony Davis, accruing 32 points, 14 rebounds, five assists and four blocks. LeBron James collected 27 points, six rebounds and eight assists. D'Angelo Russell missed 14 of his 20 shots but had 13 points, three rebounds, three assists and two steals. Austin Reaves registered 13 points, four rebounds and three assists.

The Nuggets (1-0) were led by Nikola Jokic, finishing with 32 points, 12 rebounds, seven assists and two steals. Jamal Murray amassed 22 points, six rebounds and 10 assists. Michael Porter Jr provided 19 points, eight rebounds and two blocks, while Aaron Gordon generated 12 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists.

These teams will return to action on Tuesday for Game 2 in Denver.