The Western Conference-leading Los Angeles Lakers (24-5) host the third-place Denver Nuggets (19-8) Sunday at Staples Center for a 9:30 p.m. ET tip-off. We analyze the Nuggets-Lakers odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.
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Nuggets at Lakers: Key injuries
Nuggets
- C Bol Bol (foot) out
- PF Paul Millsap (knee) questionable
Lakers
- C DeMarcus Cousins (knee) out
- PF Anthony Davis (ankle) probable
- SF LeBron James (core) doubtful
- PF Kyle Kuzma (ankle) probable
Nuggets at Lakers: Odds, lines, picks and betting tips
NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated at 1 p.m. ET.
Prediction
Nuggets 107, Lakers 103
Moneyline (ML)
The Lakers (-167) remain home favorites after losing back-to-back games for the first time all season. The NUGGETS (+140) are a great value play with plus-money amid a five-game winning streak. Neither team is at full health, but it’s the Lakers being hit harder with each of their top-three scorers battling some form of injury.
Bettors will want to see Millsap cleared before going too heavily on the Nuggets, but they’re worth at least a small wager at +140. A $10 bet for Denver to upset LA and win outright would return a profit of $14.
Line/Against the Spread (ATS)
The moneyline is a better play for those backing the Nuggets (+3.5, -115) in what’s projected as a one-possession game. The Lakers (-3.5, -106) are 16-13 ATS overall and 8-4 ATS at home, while the Nuggets are 11-13-3 ATS overall and 4-5-2 ATS on the road. The more profitable play is on the true upset, and that’s where my money will be going Sunday. PASS.
Over/Under (O/U)
Take the OVER 209.5 (+105). Even with impactful injuries on both sides, this total is low. The two teams combine to score 219.5 points per game and allow 205.8 PPG. It’s tough to see either team being held below 100 points.
Esten’s NBA betting record: 110-77
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