The Denver Nuggets (17-10) and Los Angeles Lakers (11-16) will square off on Friday night on the NBA schedule.
Denver is 17-10 on the season and enters this NBA matchup, having won three consecutive games.
However, the Lakers will have a chance to upset the odds at home. LA has gone just 1-4 over the course of their past five games. But they have done a better job playing a competitive brand of basketball as of late.
A Tough Time for the Lakers
The Lakers will have a tough time winning this game. But I expect them to give the Nuggets a run for their money.
Tip-off is scheduled for 10:00 PM EST on Friday, December 16th, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, CA. Let’s take a look at the Nuggets vs Lakers prediction, NBA odds, and trends for Friday evening.
Last Game Records
Lakers’ Last Game Record
Before making our official Nuggets vs Lakers prediction, it is important to note that both teams have a number of key players on the injury report.
LeBron James and Anthony Davis are not guaranteed to play due to recent ailments. Meanwhile, Michael Porter Jr has dealt with a heel injury for Denver since November.
Nuggets’ Last Game Record
With that being said, the Denver Nuggets are fresh off of a 141-128 victory over the Wizards. It was a true offensive explosion for Denver to run their winning streak up to three games.
The Lakers blew a late lead to the Celtics as they ultimately fell 122-118 in their last game. But LA made the Celtics work hard to earn the win.
It will be interesting to see if they can play with the same energy on Friday against Denver.
Matchup Information
Denver Nuggets vs. Los Angeles Lakers Betting Analysis
Denver Nuggets
Although Michael Porter Jr is listed on the Denver Nuggets injury report, they are still feeling confident about their overall situation at the moment.
The Nuggets’ NBA team stats and NBA player stats have been impressive throughout the year.
They rank fourth in points per game, second in assists per game, and 15th in rebounds per game. Meanwhile, Denver is first in both field goal and three-point percentage.
Nikola Jokic
Nikola Jokic is averaging just shy of 25 points per game to go along with nine assists and ten rebounds on the season. Jamal Murray is averaging just under 18 points per contest with five assists per game.
There is no question that the Nuggets are playing well right now. They currently sit in third place in the Western Conference. But if they continue playing as they have in recent action, the Nuggets will take over first place in a hurry.
However, should bettors place their Friday NBA picks on the Nuggets? Through the years, the Lakers haven’t been one of the Nugget’s best NBA matchups.
Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers stats aren’t as impressive as the Nuggets’ numbers. But their loss to the Celtics was interesting.
LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Russell Westbrook all played well in the game. But the trio received minimal help from the rest of the team, and LA ultimately lost.
With that being said, Boston is the NBA’s best team this season. If Westbrook, LeBron, and AD, assuming they all are healthy, perform in a similar manner against almost any other team, the Lakers will likely be in line for a win.
Lakers’ Performance Recap
The Lakers are sixth in points per game, 14th in assists per game, and fourth in rebounds per game. They are just 13th in field goal percentage and 30th in three-point percentage.
Davis leads LA with 28 points per game to go along with 12 rebounds and two blocks per contest. He’s been incredible when on the floor so far this year.
AD will aim to lead Los Angeles to a home-upset victory over Denver.
NBA Injury Report
Anthony Davis has been dealing with a back ailment. Additionally, LeBron James is facing an ankle injury. But they both played against Boston and should be ready to roll against the Nuggets.
Michael Porter Jr could return soon. He’s already returned to the practice court, so it will be interesting to see when Denver activates him for game action.
Denver Nuggets vs. Los Angeles Lakers Betting Preview
It is now time to make our official Nuggets vs Lakers prediction. The Nuggets are rolling and will feel confident heading into Friday.
However, I like the Lakers’ chances of upsetting the spread if LeBron and Davis play. For now, they are both listed as probable, which is a good sign without question.
Denver Nuggets vs. Los Angeles Lakers Betting Prediction
Bettors will want to be sure to monitor their injury statuses prior to tip-off.
Go ahead and place your money on the Los Angeles Lakers +1.
NBA Pick: Lakers +1 (-110)
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