LeBron James stats vs Nuggets: How has Lakers superstar fared against Denver through 21st season

LeBron James has been battling the Denver Nuggets since he came into the league in 2003 and Carmelo Anthony was the face of the franchise. Fast forward to 2023, we examine how the four-time NBA champion fared against Denver in his career as the LA Lakers open their season against the defending champions on Tuesday night.

According to StatMuse, the four-time league MVP has averaged 26.4 points, 8.2 assists, 7.5 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game in 40 games against the Nuggets. He's shot 49.6% from the field, 28.7% beyond the 3-point arc and 69.4% from the free-throw line.

His best scoring output against the Nuggets happened on Feb. 18, 2010, as he tallied career highs in points (43), assists (15), rebounds (13) rebounds, blocks (four) and two steals against Denver.

Surprisingly, LeBron James boasts a winning record against every single NBA team except the Denver Nuggets, entering opening night with a 20-20 record against them.

LeBron James on his mindset entering the 2023-24 season

In the hunt for another NBA championship in his 21st season, LeBron James comes in on opening night with a motivation bigger than beating the reigning champion Denver Nuggets.

Despite getting swept by the same team in the Western Conference finals, he and Anthony Davis return without the thirst for vengeance.

"I don't need it," James said on media day. "I don't want to say I don't get motivated to play, because I do get motivated to go against the competition. I love competing against the best. But I don't need an individual or a team to motivate me. I'm self-motivated. I'm enough."

In an effort to increase their depth, the Lakers added Gabe Vincent, Taurean Prince, Christian Wood, Jaxson Hayes and Cam Reddish in the offseason. They also re-signed core players D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves and Anthony Davis to extended contracts.

The LA Lakers open their season on the road and will witness the ring ceremony of the Denver Nuggets on Tuesday. Their first home game in the Crypto.com Arena happens on Thursday against Kevin Durant and the Phoenix Suns.