Lakers Edge Nuggets in OT Thriller!

Lakers Outlast Nuggets in Overtime Epic!

In a game that had everything, the Los Angeles Lakers finally tasted overtime this season, emerging victorious against the Denver Nuggets with a nail-biting 127-125 win. The highly anticipated matchup, featuring two teams many consider contenders, lived up to the hype, showcasing a level of intensity and skill that had the Inside the NBA crew buzzing.

Barkley’s Prediction Falters as Lakers Prevail

Charles Barkley, ever the outspoken analyst, found himself on the wrong side of a prediction, as his assertion that the Lakers would lose the game proved incorrect. Despite the Lakers holding a commanding 17-point lead earlier and going into halftime up 61-50, Barkley remained skeptical of their contender status. “No, they’re not contenders,” Barkley insisted, even after the Lakers’ strong first-half performance where they shot 55%. He doubled down, “They’re going to lose this game tonight. GUARANTEED.” However, the Lakers, playing their first overtime game of the season, defied his prediction, extending their home winning streak to seven games.

A Game of Runs and Clutch Performances

The battle between the Lakers and the Nuggets was a testament to the unpredictable nature of the NBA. While the Lakers showed early dominance, the Nuggets, led by the ever-present threat of Nikola Jokic (dubbed ‘The Joker’ by the panel), clawed their way back. The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams exchanging blows. The Inside the NBA crew highlighted several key moments and players. Kenny Smith pointed to Cam Johnson’s role as a floor spacer for the Nuggets, emphasizing the importance of aggressive shot selection. “Miss or make, you have to take. Miss or make, you have to take. You cannot pass up open shots… you’re in an offensive rhythm and you’re prepared,” Smith explained.

Nuggets’ Comeback Falls Short in OT

Despite a strong second-half surge from the Nuggets, they couldn’t quite seal the deal in overtime. The Lakers, fueled by a raucous home crowd, managed to secure the crucial victory. The win not only adds to the Lakers’ momentum but also provides valuable insight into their potential as the playoffs loom. The panel, including Shaquille O’Neal, Ernie Johnson, and Kenny Smith, acknowledged the Lakers’ impressive performance, with Shaq stating, “I got to give them their flowers. That was a hell of a game.”

Inside the NBA’s Lighter Moments

Beyond the intense on-court action, the March 14th edition of Inside the NBA delivered its signature blend of humor and camaraderie. The panel engaged in their usual playful banter, including a segment comparing outfits (‘Twinsies!’) and a discussion about the sheer volume of games played in a regular season. Charles Barkley’s fear of hearing constant praise for the Lakers if they won was a recurring joke throughout the broadcast. The show also touched upon other NBA happenings, including the Charlotte Hornets’ struggles and the Orlando Magic’s impressive clutch performance against the Miami Heat.

Remembering Past Eras and Unwritten Rules

The conversation also delved into the history of the game, with a look back at a 1994 incident where Shaquille O’Neal reportedly knocked Charles Barkley out with a bow. Barkley humorously recounted the event, claiming he would have scored 80 points if he hadn’t been taken out. This led to a discussion about the ‘unwritten rules’ of the NBA, particularly concerning playing physical defense and respecting opponents. “In my day, if you up 20 and shoot a three, we going to put your ass in the stands. That was like a unwritten rule,” Barkley declared, reminiscing about a tougher era of basketball.

Looking Ahead

As the regular season winds down, games like this Lakers-Nuggets clash become increasingly significant. The Lakers’ ability to secure such a hard-fought victory in overtime against a top-tier opponent bodes well for their playoff aspirations. For the Nuggets, it’s a tough loss, but a reminder of the fierce competition in the Western Conference. The Inside the NBA crew will undoubtedly continue to dissect these pivotal matchups as the league heads towards its most exciting postseason.

The show concluded with a lighthearted segment celebrating Pi Day, featuring a pie-throwing contest that, thankfully, resulted in no injuries, much to Shaq’s relief. The panel signed off, leaving viewers with a mix of thrilling basketball analysis and guaranteed laughs.

Source: Funniest moments from Inside the NBA 🤣 | March 14th, 2026 (YouTube)