Los Angeles Lakers Toughest Rivals Since 2020: Nikola Jokic Is Their Boogeyman

It’s been rough for the Lakers lately. They just can’t catch a break against their biggest rivals. First, Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets handed them a 127-102 beatdown, with Jokic casually putting up 34 points, 13 rebounds, and 8 assists while the Lakers completely fell apart in the second half. It’s become a recurring theme—Denver has beaten them 13 out of the last 14 times.

And if that wasn’t enough, the Suns came through and stomped them 127-100. Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal all showed up and combined for an easy night, leaving LeBron and Davis looking outclassed. So, let’s dive into the teams and players who’ve had the Lakers’ number since their 2020 title run and why they just can’t seem to shake them off.

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1. Nikola Jokic

Nikola Jokic vs. Los Angeles Lakers: 9-4 Regular Season, 8-1 Playoffs

Nikola Jokic is living rent-free in the Lakers’ heads right now. Since the 2020-21 season, he’s dominated them with a 17-5 record across both regular-season and playoff matchups. And it’s not just the wins—it’s how he’s doing it, putting on masterclass after masterclass while making it look easy. If there’s a “Lakers kryptonite,” Jokic is wearing the cape.

In the 2023 Western Conference Finals, the Nuggets swept the Lakers 4-0, a humiliation the purple and gold faithful won’t forget anytime soon. Jokic was unstoppable, averaging 27.8 points, 14.5 rebounds, and 11.8 assists over the series. It was vintage Jokic—getting buckets, finding his teammates with those ridiculous passes, and dominating the boards. Every time the Lakers thought they had a chance, Jokic snatched it away, including a dagger three-pointer in Game 4 that shut down any hope of a comeback.

Fast forward to 2024, and the Nuggets met the Lakers again in the first round of the playoffs. This time, it wasn’t a sweep, but Denver still came out on top with a 4-1 series win. And guess what? Jokic was the same problem as always. Over the five games, he averaged 28.2 points, 16.2 rebounds, and 9.8 assists. Oh, and don’t forget that monster Game 2 where he dropped 27 points, grabbed 20 rebounds, and handed out 10 assists. Seriously, how do you stop a guy who can do it all?

When you look at Jokic’s playoff career against the Lakers, it’s a straight-up nightmare. In 14 games, he’s putting up 25.8 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 8.6 assists on average. That’s MVP-level production every single night. And it’s not just in the playoffs—Jokic also loves to give the Lakers work in the regular season. In 27 career games against them, he’s averaged 20.2 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 6.5 assists, proving his dominance isn’t a one-off.

The Lakers haven’t figured out how to deal with him yet. He’s too big, too skilled, and too smart for their defense. Double him, and he’ll pick you apart with passes. Play him one-on-one, and he’ll score at will. It’s like a lose-lose situation every time they face him.

At this point, if the Lakers want to get back to championship contention, they’ve got to find a way to slow Jokic down. Right now, he’s their biggest problem, and unless they figure out an answer, the Joker will keep running the show.

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2. Phoenix Suns

Phoenix Suns vs. Los Angeles Lakers: 12-7 Regular Season, 4-2 Playoffs

The Suns have been giving the Lakers problems for a while now. Since 2020-21, they’ve racked up a 16-9 record against them across the regular season and playoffs, and it’s not just the wins—it’s the way they’ve consistently looked like the better team when it matters most. It all started in 2021, when the Suns bounced the Lakers out of the first round in six games. That series was a turning point, and honestly, it felt like the beginning of the end for the Lakers’ title defense.

Devin Booker was an absolute killer in that series, averaging 29.7 points per game and dropping a massive 47 points in Game 6 to close it out. Chris Paul, even while dealing with a shoulder injury, was the steady hand Phoenix needed, running the offense and picking apart the Lakers’ defense. The Suns didn’t just win that series—they made a statement.

Chris Paul, in particular, has always been a problem for the Lakers. During his time with the Suns, he went 10-4 against them and always seemed to have their number. Whether it was his mid-range magic or his ability to control the pace of the game, CP3 made life miserable for the purple and gold. If you include his stints with the Spurs and Warriors, his record against the Lakers climbs to 12-5 since 2020-21. That’s just wild.

Even without Paul now, the Suns haven’t skipped a beat. With Booker and Kevin Durant leading the charge, they’ve continued to dominate the Lakers in their matchups. The combination of Booker’s scoring, KD’s versatility, and a deep supporting cast has kept Phoenix one step ahead.

The Lakers’ struggles against the Suns aren’t a fluke either. The Suns play as a team, with smart coaching and a clear game plan every time they face L.A. Meanwhile, the Lakers’ inconsistency, especially on defense, has left them looking a step behind in most of these battles.

At this point, the Suns are one of the Lakers’ toughest matchups, and unless the Lakers can tighten up their game, this trend isn’t changing anytime soon. For now, it’s safe to say Phoenix has their number.

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3. Kawhi Leonard

Kawhi Leonard vs. Los Angeles Lakers: 7-3 Regular Season, 0-0 Playoffs

The Clippers have had the Lakers’ number for the past few years, owning a dominant 12-3 record against them since the 2020-21 season. Leading the charge in this rivalry is Kawhi Leonard, who has a personal 7-3 record in those games. When healthy, Kawhi’s ability to control the game on both ends of the court has been a massive problem for the Lakers, and his impact on this rivalry can’t be overstated.

Kawhi’s stat line against the Lakers since 2020 has been elite. In those 10 games, he’s averaged 25.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists while shooting efficiently from the field. His ability to score in isolation, hit clutch shots, and lock down opposing stars makes him a matchup nightmare. Whether it’s taking on LeBron James defensively or finding ways to exploit mismatches, Kawhi has been the key to the Clippers’ success in these games.

But it’s not just about Kawhi—the Clippers as a team have been a consistent thorn in the Lakers’ side. They’ve built their game plan around versatility and depth, which often exploits the Lakers’ inconsistencies. From Marcus Morris hitting shots, and Patrick Beverley making defensive stops in the clutch, to Ivica Zubac dominating the boards, the Clippers have found ways to outplay the Lakers in almost every meeting. Even in games when Kawhi hasn’t suited up, the Clippers have managed to get the job done, highlighting the depth and cohesion of their roster.

Now, things are a little different. Paul George, Kawhi’s partner-in-crime, parted to the 76ers in free agency, and Kawhi himself is currently sidelined with a knee injury. He’s been out since October with inflammation in his right knee, and while reports suggest he’s progressing and starting to shoot again, there’s still no firm timeline for his return. The Clippers are clearly in a transitional phase, and their once-unshakeable dominance over the Lakers feels vulnerable.

That said, the Lakers have a golden opportunity to strike back. Starting in January, they’re set to face the Clippers four times in the regular season. If Kawhi remains out or is still working his way back into game shape, the Lakers could flip the script in this rivalry. These games will be crucial for the Lakers, not just to gain some bragging rights in Los Angeles, but to build momentum in their own season.

However, let’s not forget that a healthy Kawhi Leonard is a different beast. If he returns fully recovered during these matchups, the Lakers will still have their hands full. Kawhi has a knack for stepping up in big games, and this rivalry always seems to bring out the best in him. The question now is whether the Lakers can take advantage of the Clippers’ current situation or if Kawhi will return just in time to remind them why he’s been their biggest problem in recent years.

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4. Sacramento Kings

Sacramento Kings vs. Los Angeles Lakers: 11-5 Regular Season, 0-0 Playoffs

The Sacramento Kings have quietly turned into one of the Lakers’ tougher matchups, putting up an 11-5 record against them since 2020-21. Leading the charge for Sacramento is Domantas Sabonis, who’s been straight-up owning these matchups. Sabonis has gone 7-4 against the Lakers in that span, but the real story is his head-to-head domination of Anthony Davis. He holds a 5-1 record against AD, and every time they face off, it feels like Sabonis is in total control.

When you look at their individual battles, it’s clear Sabonis has Davis figured out. Whether it’s his elite rebounding, crafty post moves, or his ability to stretch the floor and hit cutters, Sabonis has been the engine for the Kings in these games. AD, for all his defensive skills, hasn’t been able to slow Sabonis down. Over those six matchups, Sabonis has averaged 20.7 points, 15.3 rebounds, and 8.3 assists—basically doing it all while Davis struggles to make a similar impact.

Their most recent clash on October 26, 2024, was a wild one, with the Lakers pulling off a 131-127 win over the Kings. Domantas Sabonis was his usual monster self, dropping a triple-double with 29 points, 12 boards, and 10 dimes. Anthony Davis had a strong showing too, putting up 31 points and 9 rebounds, but it wasn’t an easy night for him. Sabonis kept the Kings in it the whole way, proving once again that he’s a huge problem for the Lakers whenever these two teams meet. Even with the loss, Sabonis showed why he’s such a tough matchup, especially for AD.

The contrast in styles is part of what makes this matchup so interesting. AD is known for his shot-blocking and athleticism, but Sabonis plays with skill and physicality that throws Davis off his game. Sabonis uses his strength to bang in the post, his vision to find teammates when double-teamed, and his footwork to create easy buckets. It’s not flashy, but it’s brutally effective—and Davis hasn’t found a way to counter.

This isn’t just about one-on-one battles either. The Kings as a team have figured out how to capitalize on Sabonis’s strengths. They play through him, using his passing to carve up defenses and his rebounding to control the tempo. The Lakers, on the other hand, often seem out of sync in these games, with AD’s inconsistency against Sabonis being a recurring theme.

For the Lakers to turn the tide, they’re going to have to find a way to slow down Sabonis specifically. Maybe that means bringing double-teams early or forcing the ball out of his hands more often. But for now, Sabonis is living rent-free in Davis’s head—and as long as that keeps up, the Kings will continue to make life tough for the Lakers.

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5. Stephen Curry

Stephen Curry vs. Los Angeles Lakers: 7-5 Regular Season, 2-4 Playoffs

Stephen Curry has been a problem for the Lakers for years, but when it matters most, the Lakers have found ways to come out on top. Since the 2020-21 season, Curry has gone 9-9 against the Lakers across regular-season and playoff games. The Lakers, however, have owned him in the postseason, starting with their dramatic 2021 Play-In Tournament win. That game ended with LeBron James sinking a clutch three-pointer over Curry to seal the deal. Then, in 2023, the Lakers eliminated the Warriors in the Western Conference Semifinals with a 4-2 series win, making it clear who had the upper hand when the stakes were highest.

Curry’s numbers against the Lakers, though, paint a picture of just how tough he’s been to handle. Over those 18 games, he’s averaged 27.6 points, 6.7 assists, and 4.7 rebounds. Even in losses, he’s consistently one of the most dangerous players on the court, pulling up for impossible threes, creating opportunities for his teammates, and controlling the tempo of games. When the Lakers beat him, it’s because they’ve had to earn it.

Despite those high-stakes losses, Curry’s not backing down. He’s currently riding a three-game win streak against the Lakers, showing that he’s still as dangerous as ever. In their most recent matchups, Curry’s been on a tear, finding ways to exploit the Lakers’ defense and make an impact whether he’s scoring or setting up his teammates. The rivalry feels far from over, and with Curry in the mix, no lead is ever safe.

Off the court, there’s no shortage of respect between Curry and LeBron James. LeBron has said multiple times that he’d love to team up with Curry before his career is over, calling him one of the players he most admires. The two got a taste of playing together during the 2024 Olympics, where they helped Team USA secure the gold medal, and the chemistry was undeniable. For now, though, their battles in the NBA continue to be must-watch basketball.

The Warriors and Lakers have yet to face each other this season, and every matchup always feels like a potential playoff preview. Both teams are gunning for another championship, and Curry knows exactly what it takes to beat the Lakers. For their part, the Lakers will need their stars to rise to the occasion and their defense to find ways to contain Curry’s incredible range and playmaking.

Curry might have been “handled” in the playoffs so far, but his ability to bounce back and keep delivering makes him one of the most dangerous opponents the Lakers face. Every time these two teams meet, Curry’s performances remind everyone why he’s still one of the best to ever do it. Whether the Lakers can continue to tame him in key moments remains one of the league’s most compelling storylines.

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6. Luka Doncic

Luka Doncic vs. Los Angeles Lakers: 8-3 Regular Season, 0-0 Playoffs

Luka Doncic has been one of the most consistent challenges for the Lakers in recent years. Since the 2020-21 season, the Mavericks have a 9-4 record against the Lakers, with Doncic personally going 8-3 in those matchups. Despite all the regular-season drama, these teams have yet to meet in the playoffs, but their games still feel high-stakes, thanks to Luka’s brilliance.

Doncic’s style of play often draws comparisons to LeBron James. Both have similar frames, elite court vision, and an uncanny ability to control the tempo of a game. Luka’s step-back threes, crafty passing, and dominance in the post often make him look like a younger LeBron. Watching them face off feels like watching the current king battle his heir apparent.

One of their more memorable showdowns came on Christmas Day 2022, when the Mavericks outscored the Lakers by 30 points in the third quarter alone to take a 124-115 win. Luka nearly posted a triple-double with 32 points, 9 rebounds, and 9 assists, showcasing his all-around dominance. That game was also a stark reminder of how the Mavericks, led by Doncic, can completely take over in key stretches.

Fast forward to their most recent matchup on January 17, 2024. While the Lakers took a commanding 127-110 win behind a huge night from Anthony Davis (37 points, 11 rebounds) and LeBron James (25 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists), Luka was still sensational. He notched a triple-double with 33 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists, proving once again that he’s always a factor, even in defeat.

The dynamic got even more exciting when Kyrie Irving joined the Mavericks during the 2022-23 season. Kyrie’s presence added extra spice to these games, especially considering the swirling rumors of him joining the Lakers before landing in Dallas. Watching LeBron face off against his former teammate while Luka continued to thrive made every Mavericks-Lakers game a must-watch event.

For the Lakers, Doncic remains a puzzle they’re still trying to solve. Over his 11 games against them since 2020, Luka has averaged 29.4 points, 9.7 assists, and 9.5 rebounds. His ability to manipulate defenses and dominate every facet of the game makes him one of the toughest players they face regularly. As the rivalry continues, the Lakers will need to figure out how to slow him down or risk him remaining a constant thorn in their side.

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7. Russell Westbrook

Russell Westbrook vs. Los Angeles Lakers: 5-3 Regular Season, 0-0 Playoffs

Russell Westbrook’s time with the Lakers was a mess, plain and simple. Brought in to form a “Big Three” with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the fit was awkward from the jump. Russ’s style didn’t mesh with the team, his shooting struggles stood out, and the Lakers couldn’t find any rhythm during his tenure. By the 2023 trade deadline, the Lakers had seen enough, sending Westbrook packing in a three-team trade that eventually landed him with the Clippers.

When Westbrook joined the Clippers, he looked like a man with something to prove. His first game against the Lakers came on April 5, 2023, and while it wasn’t his flashiest performance, it was meaningful. Russ put up 14 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists in a 125-118 Clippers win, helping them tighten their grip on a playoff spot while pushing the Lakers closer to the play-in. You could feel the extra intensity in his game—it wasn’t just another matchup for him.

Later that year, on November 1, 2023, Westbrook had a standout performance against the Lakers. He went off for 24 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists in a game that went to overtime. The Lakers ultimately snapped their 11-game losing streak against the Clippers with a 130-125 win, but Russ was everywhere, doing his best to will his team to victory. It was clear these games meant a little extra to him.

Fast forward to the summer of 2024, and Westbrook made another move, signing with the Denver Nuggets. The former champs saw him as a key veteran addition, and he wasted no time making an impact. Last week, he faced the Lakers in his Nuggets debut and delivered a vintage Westbrook stat line: 14 points, 7 rebounds, and 11 assists off the bench. The Nuggets cruised to a 127-102 win, and Russ looked as energized as ever.

Westbrook’s record against the Lakers since 2021 is now 5-3, with a 3-3 since leaving the franchise. Every time he steps on the court against his old team, there’s a little extra juice in his game. It’s not just about wins and losses—it’s personal. Russ has shown that, even after a messy breakup with the Lakers, he can still bring it and make them feel what they gave up. Love him or hate him, he’s still out here making statements.