In a league dominated by LeBron James, there's one team that stands defiant: the Denver Nuggets. It's a fascinating story of basketball battles, strategic matchups, and the enduring spirit of a team that has consistently challenged the King. Let's dive into how the Nuggets have managed to hold their ground against one of the greatest players of all time.
According to NBA insider Vinny Benedetto, the Denver Nuggets are the sole team with a winning record against LeBron James during the regular season, boasting a 24-21 record heading into their recent game against the Lakers. While the Golden State Warriors also have a strong record against James' teams, the Nuggets still hold the best winning percentage, with a 33-26 record. This is a testament to the Nuggets' consistent performance over the years. With James in his record-breaking 23rd NBA season, the time is running out for him to conquer the Mile High City.
Altitude Sports broadcaster Vic Lombardi shares that this is a stat the Nuggets organization should cherish, as James will likely have wins against every other franchise in the league by the time he retires. But how did this unique dynamic come to be?
The Akron Kid (2003-2010): A Missed Opportunity?
Imagine a world where LeBron James could have started his career in Denver! The Nuggets and the Cleveland Cavaliers shared the same odds for the top draft pick in 2003. However, the Cavaliers won the lottery, securing James. Denver ended up with Carmelo Anthony. Despite this, the Nuggets went 10-4 against James' Cavaliers early in their careers, including a 5-2 record in Denver.
"Carmelo actually, early in his career, got the best of LeBron when Cleveland came here,” Lombardi said. “Carmelo went to the playoffs before LeBron. I remember LeBron at one of Carmelo’s playoff games. He came to watch.”
Miami Vice (2010-2014): The Villain Era
When James joined Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh in Miami, he became one of the NBA's most talked-about figures. This shift in perception also impacted his reception in Denver. Lombardi notes that fans, initially in awe of James, grew weary of his decision to leave Cleveland for Miami. During this period, James won his first two championships, but the Nuggets still managed a 3-3 record against him. Denver's fortunes changed with a pivotal draft pick in 2014.
Return of the King (2014-2018): A Shift in Perspective
Nikola Jokic's first game against James was on December 29, 2015. While the Cavaliers won that game, the Nuggets’ fans began to shift their perspective. When James returned to Cleveland and won a championship against the Golden State Warriors, fans began to appreciate his achievements. Jokic and Jamal Murray secured their first win against James on March 27, 2017. During this time, James' record against the Nuggets was 5-3.
Lake Show (2018-Present): The Reign Continues
When James joined the Lakers in 2018, his popularity in Denver dipped once more. The Nuggets went 2-1 against James in his first season with the Lakers. The 2019-20 season saw the Lakers dominate, but the Nuggets responded by sweeping the Lakers in the 2023 conference finals. The Nuggets then went on to win their first championship. In the 2024 playoffs, Denver beat the Lakers in five games. Since James joined the Lakers, Denver has an 18-13 record against them.
But here's where it gets controversial... Could the Nuggets' success against James be attributed to strategic matchups, or is it simply a matter of the Nuggets having a team that consistently rises to the occasion against him? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
What I’m Thinking
Jamal Murray should be prepared to spend the All-Star break in Los Angeles. Nikola Jokic was the only Nuggets player voted as an All-Star starter from the Western Conference.
What They’re Saying
Rebounding was a major issue for the Nuggets recently, and coach David Adelman believes better individual defensive efforts will help.
What I’m Following
The Nuggets will be without three starters when the Lakers come to town. Kevin Durant passed Dirk Nowitzki for sixth place on the NBA’s all-time scoring list. Jalen Williams will be reevaluated in a couple of weeks after suffering a right hamstring strain.
