LA Lakers (33-21) at Denver (37-19)
- When: Feb 22 2025, 8:30 PM
- Where: Ball Arena, Denver, CO, USA
- TV: ABC
Game Preview
Denver Nuggets Favored by 6, Total Set at 243.5
The Los Angeles Lakers and Denver Nuggets renew their rivalry in a marquee Western Conference showdown on Saturday night. While the matchup carries plenty of hype, history has been one-sided, with Denver dominating this series in recent years. The Nuggets have won 13 of the last 14 meetings, including five straight in the regular season, and will look to keep their streak alive on their home floor.
However, the Lakers have made significant roster changes and are hoping their new-look squad can shift the balance of power. With Denver set as a 6-point favorite and the total at a high 243.5, this game is expected to feature plenty of offense and high-scoring performances.
Los Angeles Lakers: Can Luka Doncic Be the Difference?
The Lakers have struggled against Denver, but they now have a new weapon in Luka Doncic, who is set to play his first game against the Nuggets since being traded from Dallas on February 2. Doncic has played three games in purple and gold, averaging 14.7 points per game, but he sat out Thursday’s 110-102 win over Portland. His return could provide the spark Los Angeles needs to finally compete with the defending champions.
Even with Doncic, LeBron James remains the heart of this Lakers team. James dropped 40 points against the Trail Blazers, making history as the first player to score 40 or more points twice after turning 40 years old. His ability to take over games remains elite, and against a team like Denver, he will need to deliver another vintage performance.
Key Player Props to Watch:
LeBron James Over 26.5 Points – He has been on fire lately and thrives in big matchups.
Luka Doncic Over 21.5 Points – Could see a strong scoring night in his return to action.
Lakers Team Total Over 118.5 – Despite struggles against Denver, LA’s offense has been efficient.
While the Lakers’ offense has improved, their lack of size without Anthony Davis could be a major issue. With Davis traded to Dallas, the Lakers now lack a dominant interior presence, which could prove costly against a Nuggets team that feasts in the paint.
Denver Nuggets: Riding a Nine-Game Winning Streak
The Denver Nuggets are the hottest team in the NBA, currently on a nine-game winning streak, and looking to secure their first 10-game streak under head coach Michael Malone. Nikola Jokic has been the catalyst, leading the team in points (29.7), rebounds (12.7), and assists (10.2)—all of which rank in the top three league-wide. With the Lakers now lacking an elite big man to counter Jokic, he should have a dominant night in the paint.
The Nuggets aren’t just about Jokic, though. Jamal Murray has been scorching hot, dropping a career-high 55 points against Portland and averaging 27.8 points per game over his last nine contests. His surge in scoring has helped Denver solidify its standing near the top of the Western Conference with just 26 games remaining in the regular season.
Key Player Props to Watch:
Nikola Jokic Over 28.5 Points – Lakers have no answer for him inside.
Jamal Murray Over 24.5 Points – His scoring has been on another level recently.
Denver Team Total Over 124.5 – Nuggets should exploit LA’s defensive gaps.
Coach Michael Malone knows that every game in the Western Conference will be a battle, especially with how tight the standings are. He emphasized that there is no easy path in the West, making this matchup even more critical for Denver’s playoff positioning.
Game Prediction & Best Bets
Denver has owned this matchup, and with their offense firing on all cylinders, it’s hard to see the Lakers suddenly flipping the script. While Doncic will make LA better, their defensive issues in the paint and in transition (where Denver thrives) make this a tough matchup.
Best Bets:
Denver -6 – The Nuggets are too hot to fade, especially at home.
Over 243.5 – Both teams play at a fast pace and feature elite scorers.
Nikola Jokic Double-Double – A near lock given his recent dominance.
Final Score Prediction: Denver 128, Lakers 120
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
