Denver Nuggets vs. Los Angeles Lakers Spread, Line, Odds, Predictions, Picks and Betting Preview for NBA Basketball Game on 05/22

In an eagerly anticipated face-off, the Los Angeles Lakers find themselves against the formidable Denver Nuggets in the NBA’s WCF. Let’s evaluate the odds and player performance for this crucial game.

Evaluating the Odds

The odds for a must-win game for the Lakers, given the way the series has gone, seems quite skewed. The -158 money line for LA appears too high, considering Denver’s dominant performance throughout the series. Even if the line were at -120, it would still be less appealing, given the commanding play of the Nuggets.

Denver’s dominance extends from the start to the finish of each game. As for the spread of three points, it seems adequate for a one-possession game. But don’t be surprised if it closes a little lower than that. At this point, it seems challenging to place faith in the Lakers to put together a full game.

There could be a possibility that the Lakers might pull a win if the game gets sloppy towards the end, and Denver closes the series out 4-1. 

Player Performances

Star power has been the highlight of this series, with dynamic duos on both sides. Jamal Murray has consistently proved his worth, scoring at least 31 points in all three games for Denver and consecutively scoring 37 in the last two games.

On LA’s side, the pressure falls on LeBron James and Anthony Davis to salvage this game and prevent their season from coming to a premature end.

Player Props

If you’re keen on point props, considering this is a must-win for the Lakers, betting on LeBron or Davis seems like a viable option. Given the high stakes of this game, it’s unlikely they’ll be pulled early.

However, it’s worth noting that the lines at this stage in the season are incredibly efficient and sharp, which leaves minimal value. While it’s tempting to back LeBron or AD, purely for the interest of seeing the Lakers extend the series or a close game, the value in such bets is rapidly fading.

While we all hope for a thrilling game, the Lakers need to pull something exceptional out of the bag to overcome the relentless Nuggets.