Denver (44-25) at LA Lakers (42-25)
- When: Mar 19 2025, 10:00 PM
- Where: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- TV: ESPN
Denver Nuggets vs. Los Angeles Lakers – Western Conference Showdown
Nuggets Favored by 2.0 | Total: 233.0
The Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Lakers are set for a high-stakes rematch on Wednesday in Los Angeles, with both teams coming off victories despite missing key players. While Denver expects to have its stars back, the Lakers will still be short-handed as they look to even the season series.
Denver Nuggets
Path to the Matchup
Denver (44-25) sits in second place in the Western Conference, but they hold just a one-game lead over the Lakers in the standings. Despite resting Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Christian Braun on Monday, the Nuggets still pulled off a 114-105 road victory over the Warriors, proving their depth can hold its own.
With Jokic (ankle, elbow) and Murray (ankle) expected back, Denver will have its full firepower for this game. That’s bad news for a Lakers squad still without LeBron James.
Key Players & Betting Angles
Nikola Jokic (C) – 28.0 PPG, 11.9 RPG, 9.2 APG
Jokic torched the Lakers for 28 points and seven rebounds in last week’s victory. Expect him to control the pace, rack up assists, and dominate inside.
Jamal Murray (G) – 21.1 PPG, 6.5 APG
If he returns to the lineup, Murray will bring Denver’s offense to another level, adding a perimeter scoring threat against an already vulnerable Lakers defense.
Aaron Gordon (F) – 16.2 PPG, 6.5 RPG
Stepped up with a massive 38-point game vs. Golden State. If the Lakers focus too much on Jokic, Gordon could be an x-factor again.
Prediction for Denver:
With Jokic and Murray back in action, Denver should control the tempo and exploit the Lakers’ thin interior defense. The Nuggets’ recent dominance over LA (14 wins in their last 16 meetings, including playoffs) suggests another victory is likely.
Los Angeles Lakers
Path to the Matchup
The Lakers (42-25) are still without LeBron James (groin) and Rui Hachimura (knee), but that didn’t stop them from cruising to a 125-109 win over San Antonio on Monday.
Despite missing key players, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves stepped up, and the team shot 48 threes, showcasing a new offensive strategy. However, Denver’s defense will be a much tougher challenge than the depleted Spurs.
Key Players & Betting Angles
Luka Doncic (G) – 27.4 PPG, 8.9 RPG, 8.3 APG
Still struggling with his shot post-injury (5-of-20 vs. Spurs), but he nearly had a triple-double with 14 assists and nine rebounds. Expect a bounce-back performance.
Austin Reaves (G) – 17.8 PPG, 5.3 APG
Scored 30 points against the Spurs and will be heavily relied on again for scoring, especially from deep.
Jaxson Hayes (C) – 9.4 PPG, 7.6 RPG
With Denver’s size advantage, the Lakers will need Hayes to hold his own against Jokic in the paint.
Prediction for Los Angeles:
The Lakers’ recent success at home (12-2 in their last 14 games) gives them a fighting chance, but without LeBron, their defense takes a major hit. If Doncic struggles from the field again, it could be a long night for LA.
Final Betting Take & Predictions:
Spread: Denver -2.0 → With Jokic and Murray back, the Nuggets should control the game and cover.
Total: Under 233.0 → Both teams can put up points, but Denver’s defense should keep this slightly under.
Best Player Prop Bet: Jokic Over 37.5 Points + Assists → The Joker has owned the Lakers, and his playmaking should shine.
Look for Denver to secure another win over LA, extending their dominance in this matchup.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
