Denver Nuggets vs
Los Angeles LakersPredictions & Preview

Los Angeles Lakers Favored by 4.5 Points in Face-Off Against Denver Nuggets in First Game of the Season

The Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Lakers are set to face off in their first game of the season, with the Lakers favored by 4.5 points. Both teams have had recent success, with the Nuggets winning five of their last eight games and the Lakers on a six-game win streak before their last game. The Nuggets are currently sixth in the Western Conference, while the Lakers are in fourth place, both within reach of the top spot. The total points for the game is set at 233.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Nuggets +153 | Lakers -179
• Spread: Nuggets +4.5 (-110) | Lakers -4.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 234.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Los Angeles will win straight-up is 64%.

Denver vs Los Angeles Stats

Denver Nuggets

In their recent NBA Cup game, the Denver Nuggets fell short against the Dallas Mavericks with a final score of 123-120. Despite an impressive shooting performance from the Nuggets, with Nikola Jokic leading the team with a triple-double, they were unable to secure a victory. Dallas, playing without Luka Doncic, maintained a strong shooting percentage and ultimately came out on top. The Nuggets, who currently rank seventh in the league in points per game, have shown notable performances from players such as Jokic, Michael Porter Jr., and Jamal Murray. However, the team is facing some inconsistency, particularly in Murray's shooting percentage. Overall, the Nuggets hold a power ranking of 8 and have a solid offensive record, averaging 116.54 points per game. Defensively, their performance has room for improvement, as they allow an average of 115.08 points to be scored against them per game. With a record of 8-6 this season, the Nuggets continue to strive for success on the court.

Los Angeles Lakers Analysis

The Los Angeles Lakers suffered a close loss to the Orlando Magic in their last game, giving up a game-winning 3-pointer with only 2.5 seconds left for their first home loss of the season. Despite facing an Orlando team missing three starters, the Lakers struggled, with Anthony Davis missing crucial free throws and a buzzer-beating jumper. LeBron James led the team with 39 points, while Davis added 31 points and 10 rebounds. The Lakers shot 50.6% from the field and 41.9% from beyond the 3-point arc, but allowed the Magic to shoot 47.3% and 37.5% from long range. The team has not covered the spread in three consecutive games. On the season, the Lakers rank sixth in the league in points per game but only 24th in opponents' points per game. Anthony Davis, the league's second-leading scorer, is listed as probable to face the Nuggets despite a foot injury. LeBron James continues to impress in his 22nd season. The Lakers have a power ranking of 20 and are 10-5 overall. Their offense is ranked sixth in the league, averaging 117.33 points per game, while their defense ranks 24th, giving up an average of 116.20 points per game. The Lakers have a strong shooting percentage but struggle with defensive rebounds and allowing three-pointers.

Fresher Los Angeles Lakers expected to dominate Denver Nuggets in back-to-back game

The Denver Nuggets will be facing the Los Angeles Lakers in their second game in two nights, while the Lakers have had a day of rest. Despite a recent tough loss, the Lakers had been on a six-game winning streak, showcasing strong performances by LeBron James and Anthony Davis. On the other hand, the Nuggets have struggled in their last four games, losing three of them. With a road record of 3-3, the Nuggets may face challenges after playing last night. The fresher Lakers are anticipated to perform well in front of their home crowd and secure a victory, potentially covering the spread for the first time in three games. A recommendation would be to take the Lakers at -4.5.

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