The Denver Nuggets defeated the host Los Angeles Lakers, 128-104, at Staples Center on Sunday.

While there were eight ties and 12 lead changes in the first 30 minutes of this game, Denver took control from there. In fact, they outscored the Lakers, 36-25 in the third quarter and 37-26 in the fourth quarter. That allowed them to hold a double-digit lead for the final 11 minutes of play, leading by 26 points at times. Ball movement was the difference in the game, with the Nuggets recording 31 assists to eight turnovers while the Lakers committed 19 turnovers to 18 assists. A lot of that had to do with the 13 steals by Denver, with Los Angeles recording just seven. In addition, the Nuggets went 27-of-30 from the free-throw line while the Lakers hit just 16-of-22.

The Nuggets (20-8) were led by Paul Millsap, who dropped 21 points in an otherwise empty line. Nikola Jokic collected 18 points, six rebounds and five assists. Will Barton accrued 14 points, 13 rebounds, five assists and two steals while Gary Harris amassed 19 points, five assists and four steals.

The Lakers (24-5) had to play this game without LeBron James, as Anthony Davis led the way with 32 points, 11 rebounds and four blocks. He was the only starter in double figures, with Rajon Rondo accumulating five points, four rebounds, eight assists and three steals. Kyle Kuzma led the bench with 16 points, four boards and two blocks.

On deck for Denver is another road game against the Phoenix Suns on Monday. As for Los Angeles, they play host to their rival Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday for their next outing.