The Los Angeles Lakers, who played without LeBron James (strained back muscle), were defeated by the Denver Nuggets 104-128 on Sunday night at Staples Center.

The Lakers duo of Anthony Davis (on 13/23 shooting) and Kyle Kuzma (on 7/15 shooting) combined for 48 points, with Davis scoring 32 points (along with 11 rebounds, and four blocks) and Kuzma posting 16 points (along with four boards and two blocks). Davis sustained a knee injury.

The Lakers lost their third game in a row but still have the best record in the Western Conference.

On the other hand, Paul Millsap scored 21 points, Gary Harris added 16 points, five assists and four steals for Denver.

LA fell to a 24-6 record, whereas the Nuggets, who have now won six straight games, improved to 20-8.

Coach Vogel:

Game highlights: