The Los Angeles Lakers are entering a crucial stretch against tougher competition, starting with a game against the Nuggets in Denver on Thursday. The Lakers are currently on a three-game winning streak after a win over the Pelicans. This stretch will see them play six of eight games against teams above them in the standings, including five against Western Conference opponents. They also face the Knicks, one of the Eastern Conference's top teams, and the tanking Pacers. Despite being in the mix in the West, the Lakers' performance against the league's best teams has been criticized. Despite a 23-6 record against teams below.500, they have a 14-18 record against those.500 or better, which is the worst mark among the West's top six teams. Marcus Smart and Luka Doncic have expressed confidence in their team's ability to handle the upcoming games.