Denver Nuggets vs Los Angeles Lakers, NBA 2024-25 Season, Today Match Prediction

Denver Nuggets vs Los Angeles Lakers Basteball Odds

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Denver Nuggets

With a 42-24 record, the Denver Nuggets are 2nd in Northwest Division and 3rd in the Western Conference. They are coming off a 95-115 loss against the Minnesota Timberwolves in their last outing. After scoring 140 points in Monday’s win at Oklahoma City on 60.5% shooting, the Nuggets never found their shooting touch. 

They shot 40.4% in a game they never led. This was their second loss in the past five games. Nevertheless, the Nuggets are among the top teams in the Western Conference and their style relies on smart ball movement and efficient scoring, with an emphasis on using Jokic’s versatility to create mismatches.

Offensively, the Denver Nuggets have been averaging 121.5 points per game and have a three-point shooting efficiency of 38.4%, allowing them to stretch opposing defences. They are averaging 50.8% field goal and 31.2 assists per game. The Nuggets convert 77.4% from the free throw line.

Defensively, the Nuggets have shown vulnerabilities in perimeter defense, occasionally allowing high three-point percentages. Their paint defense, led by Jokić provides a solid foundation but can be challenged by teams with elite guards. The team is averaging 45.9 rebounds, 4.7 blocks, and 8.0 steals per game, showcasing their ability to cause turnovers and to protect the rim.

The reigning MVP Nikola Jokic is the team's lead scorer in points, assists and rebounds, while guard Jamal Murray continues to score over 20 ppg per game. With Aaron Gordon sideline Russell Westbrook will start the game. 

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Los Angeles Lakers

With a 40-23 record, the Los Angeles Lakers are currently 1st in the Pacific division and 4th in the Western Conference. They are coming off a 108-111 loss against the Brooklyn Nets in their last outing. Doncic shot only 8 for 26 and Austin Reaves was 3 for 14 as the guards struggled with James and other key frontcourt players sidelined. 

The Lakers used a lineup of Doncic, Reaves, Vincent, Knecht and Alex Len that had never started together. This was their second straight loss in the past five games. Consistency on both ends of the floor might be an issue, especially against teams that play with Denver’s level of intensity.

Offensively, the Lakers have demonstrated solid field goal percent 48.0%, driven by LeBron’s ability to create high-percentage looks. They have been averaging 112.9 points per game and their three-point shooting at 35.7%, while improving, remains an area they could exploit further. 

On average the Lakers convert 78.6% from the free throw line. On the defensive end, the team averages around 42.8 rebounds, 4.7 blocks and 7.7 steals per game, showing their ability to cause turnovers and protect the rim.  Their assist averages at 26.3 per game, showcasing decent ball movement, though there's room to grow offensively.

The key players for the team are LeBron James and Luka Doncic who continues to be a dominant force and guard Austin Reaves who supports the team offensively with his playmaking skills.  However, LeBron is expected to miss at least 1-2 weeks due to a groin strain.

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Denver Nuggets vs Los Angeles Lakers Match Prediction & Analysis

The Nuggets will look to leverage the energy and familiarity of Ball Arena. Their ability to control the boards and dictate the pace at home could prove decisive. While both teams possess offensive firepower, defensive execution will be key. The Nuggets have been efficient at limiting opponents second-chance points, whereas the Lakers will need to tighten up on the boards and perimeter.

This matchup carries weight in the Western Conference standings. A win for Denver could further solidify their playoff positioning, while the Lakers will be eager to put an end to their losing streak and maintain momentum heading deeper into the season.

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