The Nuggets and Lakers are scheduled to face off in the NBA Playoffs for the second consecutive year.
In the previous year, the Nuggets, seeded first, secured their first-ever NBA Finals spot by sweeping the Lakers, who were seeded seventh. This year, they will clash in the first round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs, with the Nuggets as the second seed and the Lakers as the seventh seed.
Despite last year’s playoff series being a sweep in favor of Denver, the wins were close, with a total margin of 24 points. The Nuggets went on to clinch the 2023 NBA title and drew the Lakers’ resentment during their celebrations.
Leading into the new season, Denver continued its domination over LA by sweeping the regular season series 3-0 and extending their winning streak against the Lakers to eight games, including playoffs.
Can the Nuggets’ duo of Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray maintain their supremacy over LA, or will LeBron James and Anthony Davis step up to challenge the defending champions?
Here is an overview of the upcoming series, along with our prediction, odds, and other essential details of the head-to-head battle.
MORE: Can the Lakers find a way to slow down Nikola Jokic?
Lakers vs. Nuggets prediction
Prediction: Nuggets in six games
With this series occurring two rounds earlier than last year, the Nuggets’ recent success against the Lakers indicates their superiority. However, the Lakers, with improved rest and schedule, are in a better position to extend the series this time. The Lakers have the potential to win a game or two, but Denver, backed by Jokic’s brilliance, remains the stronger team. The outcome of the series will likely hinge on other factors beyond Jokic’s performance.
Lakers vs. Nuggets betting odds
The Nuggets (-375) are the favorites to win the series against the Lakers (+300), according to BetMGM, an authorized gaming operator of the NBA.
Lakers vs. Nuggets regular season series
The Lakers and Nuggets faced off three times during the 2023-24 regular season, with the Nuggets sweeping the series 3-0.
- Oct. 24, 2023: Nuggets 119, Lakers 107
- Feb. 8, 2024: Nuggets 114, Lakers 106
- March 2, 2024: Nuggets 124, Lakers 114
Each of the Nuggets’ victories had significant moments. For instance, on October 24, Denver received their championship rings and went on to win by 12 points with a stellar performance from Jokic. The series of wins included other standout games as well.
PLAYOFF SERIES PREVIEWS: Bucks vs. Pacers | Mavericks vs. Clippers
Lakers vs. Nuggets key storyline: Who will star outside of Jokic?
Jokic is widely regarded as the best player globally and a strong MVP candidate. The focus shifts to other key players in determining the series outcome.
While Murray was instrumental in Denver’s success last year, the Lakers need James and Davis to elevate their game this time to counter him. Davis and James playing exceptionally well will be crucial for the Lakers to stand a chance against the Nuggets.
Numbers from the regular season matchups highlight the performances of key players and the need for LA’s supporting cast to step up to support James and Davis
Lakers vs. Nuggets schedule
| Date | Game | Time (ET) | TV channel |
| Saturday, April 20 | Game 1 at Nuggets | 8:30 p.m. | ABC |
| TBA | Game 2 at Nuggets | TBA | TBA |
| TBA | Game 3 at Lakers | TBA | TBA |
| TBA | Game 4 at Lakers | TBA | TBA |
| TBA | Game 5 at Nuggets* | TBA | TBA |
| TBA | Game 6 at Lakers* | TBA | TBA |
| TBA | Game 7 at Nuggets* | TBA | TBA |
*If necessary
Fans in the U.S. can watch the NBA Playoffs on Sling TV. Sling offers a variety of sports channels for avid fans, including ESPN, TBS, TNT, NFL Network, FS1, and more.