Lakers-Nuggets Series Odds Making a Huge Mistake
The Los Angeles Lakers and LeBron James are not being given much of a chance against the Denver Nuggets. That may be a mistake.
By Cem Yolbulan
After a long and grueling regular season and the play-in tournament in a loaded Western Conference, the Los Angeles Lakers finally managed to secure their spot in the playoffs. Unfortunately for them, however, they will be facing the reigning champions and West favorites the Denver Nuggets in the first round.
These two teams matched up last postseason in the Western Conference Finals and the Nuggets swept the series despite four close games. The Lakers will have revenge on their minds as they try to dethrone Nikola Jokic and Co.
One advantage the Lakers have this season as opposed to last is the fact that LeBron James will be well-rested and healthy. Last season, James was hobbled by the time conference finals came around. Now, with five days of rest heading into Game 1, the 39-year-old will have had all the rest he needed before the trip to Denver.
However, the oddsmakers are still not buying it. On FanDuel Sportsbook, the Nuggets are seen as the heavy favorites (-420) heading into the series. The Lakers are a long shot to make the second round at +310.
Lakers vs. Nuggets Series Winner Odds
The most likely score for the series is seen as a 4-1 Nuggets win. (+230) If the Lakers end up pulling off the upset, FanDuel Sportsbook believes it would be in six games. (+700)
Lakers vs. Nuggets Series Correct Score Odds
Obviously, the most important weapon for Denver will be the MVP favorite Nikola Jokic. The Serbian superstar has been the best player in the NBA for the past few seasons, helping the Nuggets dominate the competition last season on their way to winning their first title in franchise history.
How the Lakers match up with Jokic will determine the success of this series. Los Angeles found some success last year with Rui Hachimura guarding him and having Anthony Davis on the backline as a help defender. By Game 4, LeBron James was guarding Jokic and doing a respectable job against the big man. Keeping AD away from Jokic and having him as the rim protector will likely be a strategy Darvin Ham will utilize.
Yet, Jokic is starting the series as the favorite (+120) to lead both teams in scoring. James follows the two-time MVP at +300. Considering that LeBron was able to average 27.8 points per game in last year's series despite not being 100%, he might have something to say about these odds.
Lakers vs. Nuggets Series Player Props
The series kicks off on Saturday in Denver. You can get in on the action by heading over to FanDuel Sportsbook and claiming your $150 in bonus bets after your first $5 wager.
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