Denver Nuggets vs. Los Angeles Lakers 3/2/24 – As the NBA season progresses into its crucial stages, the upcoming matchup between the Denver Nuggets and the Los Angeles Lakers is drawing significant attention from fans and bettors alike. Set to take place on Saturday, this game is not just a showdown between two teams with contrasting fortunes this season but also a prime feature for those looking into NBA latest free picks. With the Nuggets positioned comfortably among the top of the Western Conference and the Lakers fighting to solidify their playoff aspirations, this encounter promises high stakes and intense basketball action.
| When: | Saturday, March 2, 2024, at 8:30 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | ABC |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Rockin’ it 👍 https://t.co/ccquPjId8J pic.twitter.com/NsKRvgkoIL
— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) March 1, 2024
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nuggets | -1.5 -110 | o229.5 -110 | -137 |  |
| Lakers | +1.5 -110 | u229.5 -110 | +117 | |
| ||||
Nikola Jokic (C) vs. Anthony Davis (PF)
Nuggets center Nikola Jokic is putting together another MVP-caliber campaign, averaging 26.1 points, 12.3 rebounds and 9.3 assists per game. The versatile big man anchors Denver on both ends with his scoring, playmaking and rebounding. He could exploit the Lakers interior defense. One area of concern is his high turnover rate.
Anthony Davis is the key to the Lakers success with averages of 24.9 points, 12.3 rebounds and 2.4 blocks. When healthy, he’s one of the most dominant two-way players. However, Davis has struggled with injuries throughout his career. He will need to avoid foul trouble and play big minutes to match up with the deeper Nuggets frontcourt.
This battle of elite bigs could determine the game. If Davis gets Jokic into early foul trouble, itswing the advantage towards the Lakers. But if Jokic has his way, the Nuggets prolific offense should thrive against the Lakers 21st-ranked defense.
Nuggets’ Offensive Juggernaut
The Nuggets have the NBA’s 7th best offensive rating at 114.5 points per 100 possessions. They excel at scoring in a variety of ways with an inside-out attack led by the passing brilliance of Jokic. Sharpshooters like Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. create space for Jokic to operate in the post. Porter’s size also helps him grab offensive rebounds for second chance opportunities. The Nuggets ball movement and scoring depth gives them an edge against the Lakers mediocre defense. Unless Davis and the Lakers rim protection shuts down the paint, the Nuggets should be able to dictate the pace and scoring flow of this contest.
Lakers’ Balanced Attack and Defensive Prowess
The Lakers remain dangerous when their stars are healthy and clicking. Anthony Davis and LeBron James are matchup nightmares capable of dominating on both ends. Role players like Austin Reaves complement them better when sharing the court together. Over their last 15 games, the Lakers have posted the NBA’s 4th-best offensive rating by moving the ball and playing more cohesively. This rejuvenated offense coupled with Davis’ game-changing defense could pose issues for the Nuggets. If James orchestrates effectively and Davis holds down the paint, the Lakers veterans have enough top-tier talent to take over late.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
The betting odds for this game remain TBD, reflecting the closely matched nature of the contest. Bettors will need to keep a close eye on the spread and moneyline as they are announced, considering the tight competition and the impact of home-court advantage for the Lakers.
Trends
Denver Nuggets Betting Trends
Nuggets are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
Denver Nuggets are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Nuggets are 12-18 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Nuggets’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 11 of Nuggets’ 27 last games at home.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
Lakers are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
LA Lakers are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Lakers are 12-18 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Lakers’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 11 of Lakers’ 30 last games at home.
Injuries
Denver Nuggets
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope SG Is OUT Saturday vs LA Lakers, Personal
Jamal Murray PG Left last game, is “?” Saturday vs LA Lakers, Ankle
Vlatko Cancar SF Is out indefinitely, Knee
Braxton Key PF Is “?” Saturday vs LA Lakers, Personal
Los Angeles Lakers
LeBron James SF Is “?” Saturday vs Denver, Ankle
Christian Wood PF Is out indefinitely, Knee
Jarred Vanderbilt SF Is out indefinitely, Foot
Gabe Vincent PG Is out indefinitely, Knee
Colin Castleton C Is out indefinitely, Wrist
Denver Nuggets vs. Los Angeles Lakers Betting Picks
Given the current form and statistics, this game promises to be tightly contested. While the Nuggets have shown a potent offense, the Lakers’ defensive tenacity and home-court advantage could be the equalizers. For those looking at NBA latest free picks, considering the over/under might be a safer bet given both teams’ propensity to engage in high-scoring affairs.
The Nuggets, led by Jokic and their offensive efficiency and depth, hold an edge when it comes to offensive efficiency and depth. But do not discount Davis-led Lakers; especially at home. For bettors searching best online sportsbook options, closely watching both spread and moneyline announcements is key in making informed decisions.
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Score Prediction: Nuggets 112, Lakers 108.
