Denver Nuggets vs Los Angeles Lakers Prediction: Moneyline, Props & SGP (Jan 20)
Calendar icon Updated 19 Jan 09:34

Denver Nuggets vs Los Angeles Lakers Prediction: Moneyline, Props & SGP (Jan 20)

Alexander Yaremenko Alexander Yaremenko
Moneyline PickDenver Nuggets
Player PropJamal Murray Over 4.5 Assists
Same Game Parlay (Bet Builder)Denver Nuggets Moneyline + Jamal Murray 20+ Points + Over 228.5 Total Points
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Denver Nuggets vs Los Angeles Lakers Main Match Info

Denver Nuggets vs Los Angeles Lakers Moneyline Prediction

The Nuggets have been thriving lately, even with Nikola Jokić sidelined. Jamal Murray has elevated his game to an All-Star level, coming off a massive 42-point performance in the clash against the Wizards. 

The Nuggets’ offensive strategy relies on constant movement and high-low actions, which could leave the Lakers’ perimeter defenders confused. 

While Los Angeles have size with Deandre Ayton, they often struggle to defend the “pick-and-pop” efficiently, which is a staple of the Denver centre-out scheme.

The Lakers snapped a slump with a win over Toronto (110-93), but the market may be slightly overvaluing them based on that single performance. Before that win, they had dropped five of their previous six games. Denver, despite an 87-110 loss against the Hornets, have won six of their last eight outings. 

The Nuggets are the better team right now, and the odds reflect a strong probability of them defending their court.

Denver Nuggets vs Los Angeles Lakers Player Prop

With Nikola Jokić sidelined, Jamal Murray has taken on an increase in usage, acting as the main hub for the Nuggets’ offence. While he’s known as a scorer, Murray is also averaging 7.3 assists per game this season, nearly three above this line.

In fast-paced encounters, Denver transition frequently, with Murray initiating the break. After his recent 40-point explosion, the Lakers will likely focus their defensive schemes on stopping Murray’s scoring, which might make him shift his attention towards increasing his assist rate as he finds open shooters like Cameron Johnson or Aaron Gordon.

In his last 10 appearances against the Lakers, he’s averaged 5.8 assists, demonstrating a consistent ability to exploit their secondary rotations.

Denver Nuggets vs Los Angeles Lakers Same Game Parlay

If the Denver Nuggets want to win at home, Jamal Murray must be their main offensive leader. Murray is performing exceptionally well, making 20 points a very safe target for the second leg, especially considering his recent 40-point outburst. 

If Murray scores, the game’s total is much more likely to trend towards the Over, making these three picks work in harmony.

To add a leg for an odds boost, the Over 228.5 Total Points is the key. Both teams rank in the top half of the league in offensive efficiency, but they’ve recently shown weaknesses in their transition defence. 

The Lakers’ defensive rating has slipped during their recent road struggles, and Denver’s bench units often participate in high-scoring runs.

Denver Nuggets vs Los Angeles Lakers Team News

Denver Nuggets Team News

Nikola Jokić has been out since late December due to a bone bruise in his left knee. He’s begun on-court workouts, but the Nuggets have yet to activate him for game action.

The team’s frontcourt is impacted by injuries. Jonas Valančiūnas (right calf strain) remains out, as do Cameron Johnson (right knee bone bruise) and Christian Braun (left ankle sprain). Apart from Jokić, these players have been ruled out in recent injury reports, forcing Denver to adjust rotations and lean more heavily on role players.

Aaron Gordon is managing a right hamstring strain but is typically listed as probable and has been available in recent outings, though his minutes may be moderated to protect his health

Bruce Brown and Spencer Jones have seen increased minutes as the Nuggets cope with a depleted roster, with Watson and younger players contributing in their absence.

Despite these health challenges, Denver have remained competitive, winning several games without a full complement of starters.

Los Angeles Lakers Team News

Luka Dončić and LeBron James both played against the Raptors and looked sharp, combining for 49 points. Deandre Ayton also made a massive impact in his return from knee soreness, shooting a perfect 10-for-10 from the field.

However, Austin Reaves is still out with a calf strain and isn’t expected back until February. Rookie Adou Thiero (MCL sprain) and Jaxson Hayes (hamstring) are also sidelined. This has forced Marcus Smart and Gabe Vincent into heavy-minute roles.

Denver Nuggets vs Los Angeles Lakers: Where to Watch (Canada) 

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