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LA Lakers (25-16) at Nuggets (29-14)
- When: Jan 20 2026, 10:00 PM
- Where: Ball Arena, Denver, CO, USA
- TV: NBC/Peacock
LA Lakers vs Nuggets Preview & Prediction
Spread: LA Lakers -2.5
Moneyline: LA Lakers (-135)
Total: 228.5
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Breakdown
When the Lakers and Nuggets share a court, it never feels like just another regular season game. Too much recent playoff history, too many hard fought series, and too many stars on both sides for this to be casual. Los Angeles heads to Denver looking to build momentum after finally stopping a rough stretch.
The Lakers had dropped five of six before responding with a convincing win, a reminder of how dangerous they can be when things click. Luka Doncic continues to be the engine, controlling tempo and creating offense at will. Even during uneven stretches, Los Angeles remains competitive because of its ability to score in bunches.
The frontcourt could be the difference here. With Denver dealing with injuries inside, the Lakers suddenly hold a size advantage. When Los Angeles commits to attacking the paint, it forces defenses into foul trouble and opens up perimeter looks. As a 2.5 point favorite with the total at 228.5, Bovada oddsmakers are clearly factoring in that matchup edge.
Lakers Player Prop Pick: Deandre Ayton over 8.5 rebounds
Ayton should see extended opportunities against a short handed Denver front line and has already shown he can dominate the glass in this role.
Denver Nuggets Betting Breakdown
Denver enters this matchup shorthanded and slightly vulnerable, something rarely said over the past few seasons. Injuries have forced the Nuggets into smaller lineups, and while that approach has worked at times, it leaves them exposed against physical teams.
Jamal Murray has been asked to shoulder far more responsibility without the usual interior anchors. For much of January, he has answered the call, scoring at a high level and creating offense late in possessions. When his shot is falling, Denver can keep pace with anyone. When it is not, the margin for error disappears quickly.
Defensively, rebounding has become the primary concern. Smaller lineups mean more scrambling and fewer second chance opportunities. Against a Lakers team that wants to attack the paint, Denver will need disciplined rotations and strong guard play to stay competitive.
Nuggets Player Prop Pick: Jamal Murray over 27.5 points
With Denver thin inside, Murray remains the most reliable scoring option and should again carry a heavy offensive load.
Betting Outlook and Prediction
The Lakers are favored by 2.5 points with a total of 228.5, signaling a fast paced, offense driven contest. Denver’s guard play keeps this interesting, but Los Angeles holds advantages in size, depth, and current health.
Expect runs on both sides, but the Lakers’ ability to control the paint and close quarters should tilt the outcome late.
Final Score: Lakers 118, Nuggets 112
Lean: LA Lakers -2.5
Total: Over 228.5
- NBA Basketball Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
