Lakers and Nuggets Face Off in Season’s Final Regular Matchup
The Los Angeles Lakers host the Denver Nuggets Wednesday night in what could be a playoff preview between two Western Conference heavyweights.
Tip-off is set for 10:00 p.m. ET at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
Fans can catch the action nationally on ESPN, with local coverage on SportsNet LA for California viewers and Altitude Sports for those in Colorado.
Looking for a free way to watch? Check out the live stream on Jazz Sports.
The Nuggets enter as slight 1-point favorites on the road, according to BetOnline odds.
Injury concerns loom large for both teams
The Lakers will be without LeBron James (groin) and Rui Hachimura (ankle) for tonight’s contest. Luka Doncic is listed as probable with an ankle issue, while Trey Jemison is questionable due to illness.
Denver has its own health worries. Nikola Jokic (elbow) and Jamal Murray (ankle) are both questionable – a potentially massive blow to the Nuggets’ chances if either can’t go. Aaron Gordon is probable with a calf injury, while Christian Braun remains questionable with a foot problem.
Lakers finding their rhythm without LeBron
After dropping three straight games following LeBron’s groin injury against Boston earlier this month, the Lakers have bounced back with consecutive wins.
Luka Doncic has been nothing short of spectacular in purple and gold, averaging 26.2 points, 8.8 rebounds and 8.1 assists since joining Los Angeles. His play has kept the Lakers firmly in the Western Conference playoff picture despite missing their veteran superstar.
Recent history favors Denver
The Nuggets currently sit just one game ahead of the Lakers in the conference standings, but they’ve had LA’s number lately.
Denver leads the season series 2-1, including a win last week when the Lakers were severely shorthanded.
This isn’t just another regular season game. There’s some serious bad blood between these teams.
The Nuggets have eliminated the Lakers from the playoffs in each of the past two seasons – something JJ Redick’s squad hasn’t forgotten.
With playoff positioning and psychological advantage on the line, expect an intense battle at Crypto.com Arena tonight, especially if Doncic is able to suit up.
