Denver Nuggets vs. Los Angeles Lakers 2/8/24 – As we approach the heart of the NBA season, a tantalizing matchup is set to unfold at Crypto.com Arena, where the Denver Nuggets (35-16) are preparing to face off against the Los Angeles Lakers (26-25). This game promises not only an exciting display of basketball prowess but also an intriguing opportunity for those looking for free daily NBA picks. With the Nuggets currently holding a strong record and the Lakers aiming to climb higher in the standings, this game is a pivotal moment in their season trajectories.
| When: | Thursday, February 8, 2024, at 10:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
From above #WallpaperWednesdays pic.twitter.com/D3nkprWHnd
— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) February 7, 2024
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nuggets | -3.5 -110 | o231-110 | -160 |  |
| Lakers | +3.5 -110 | u231 -110 | +140 | |
| ||||
Nikola Jokic (C) vs. D’Angelo Russell (PG)
Nikola Jokic has been a machine for the Nuggets this season, playing in 49 games with 49 starts while averaging 33.8 minutes per contest. He is racking up 26.3 points per game on highly efficient shooting (49.4 FG%, 37 3PT%) along with 12.2 rebounds and a stellar 9 assists. Jokic is also taking good care of the ball with just 2.9 turnovers per game against all that distribution. His 3.1 assist-to-turnover ratio really stands out. However, his defense leaves something to be desired at times, with averages of just 1.2 steals and 0.9 blocks. Foul trouble has also been an issue (2.6 fouls per game). Still, his versatile offensive skill set makes him an MVP favorite once again.
D’Angelo Russell has started 40 of 47 games for the Lakers, seeing 30.8 minutes a night. He’s scoring 17 points while hitting shots at a solid clip (49 FG%, 37 3PT%). Russell has done a nice job setting up teammates as well, dropping 6.2 dimes per contest with a 3.2 assist-to-turnover ratio. That said, Russell needs the ball in his hands to make an impact and doesn’t contribute much on defense (0.8 steals, 0.5 blocks). His effort comes and goes at that end of the court. He also gets whistled for 2 fouls per outing, which can limit his aggressiveness.
This matchup pits Jokic’s inside dominance against Russell’s perimeter scoring prowess. Both are deft passers but leave something to be desired defensively. Foul trouble could swing things in either direction as well.
Denver Nuggets’ Offensive Showcase
The Denver Nuggets have shown their offensive strength this season, averaging 114.8 points per game with a 49.4% field goal percentage and spread the floor effectively with Jokic’s outstanding playmaking, to remain one of the league’s most efficient offenses. Their road game performance against the spread (9-16) indicates potential vulnerabilities when traveling away from home.
Lakers’ Scoring Prowess
The Lakers have scored 116.1 points per game this season to edge out Denver slightly in scoring. Their field goal percentage (49%) and free-throw percentage (77.1%) demonstrate they can keep pace with high-scoring opponents while their road games record against the spread (11-15) evidence their struggles but competitive nature.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
With the betting odds yet to be determined, this game presents a challenging puzzle for bettors. The Nuggets’ recent form and the Lakers’ ability to rise to the occasion in big games will be key factors to consider when the odds are released.
Trends
Denver Nuggets Betting Trends
Nuggets are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
Denver Nuggets are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Nuggets are 9-16 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Nuggets’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 10 of Nuggets’ 25 last games at home.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
Lakers are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
LA Lakers are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Lakers are 11-15 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Lakers’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 10 of Lakers’ 26 last games at home.
Injuries
Denver Nuggets
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope SG Is “?” Thursday vs LA Lakers, Hamstring
Vlatko Cancar SF Is out indefinitely, Knee
Los Angeles Lakers
LeBron James SF Is “?” Thursday vs Denver, Ankle
Anthony Davis PF Is “?” Thursday vs Denver, Achilles
D’Angelo Russell PG Is upgraded to probable Thursday vs Denver, Undisclosed
Jarred Vanderbilt SF Is out indefinitely, Foot
Cam Reddish SG Is out indefinitely, Ankle
Denver Nuggets vs. Los Angeles Lakers Betting Picks
Given their current form and statistical analysis, this game promises to be closely contested. The Nuggets look set to challenge the Lakers’ defense with their superior offensive system under Jokic’s leadership; however, Russell could prove invaluable as an underrated playmaker that may surprise Denver.
Betting-wise, the game’s outcome may depend heavily on whether or not the Nuggets can successfully adjust to playing in Crypto.com Arena. Betting on them to cover any reasonable spread would likely be wise given their overall success this season; and for over/under bets with both teams scoring capabilities and recent trends considered, leaning towards over may provide value based on final lines.
As for prop bets, looking at Jokic’s all-around contributions might offer lucrative opportunities, given his consistent performance. For those seeking the premier sportsbook online, this game offers a plethora of betting angles, from straightforward moneyline bets to more complex prop bets involving key players’ performance metrics. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Nuggets 112, Lakers 108.
