LeBron James led the Los Angeles Lakers to a 110-102 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers (in Oregon). James had been questionable for

Get insights into the Lakers' challenges with LeBron James and Luka Dončić as they prepare for critical matchups ahead.

The Nuggets enter the contest in dominant form, having won nine straight games and sitting tied for second in the Western Conference. On the flip side, the Lakers—currently fifth in the West—are still adjusting to life with Doncic. Since his arrival from the Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles has lost two of the three games he has played.

Luka Doncic and former Mavericks teammate Dirk Nowitzki texted each other after Doncic was traded, and Nowitzki talked about the support he offered.