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In the Western Conference Finals, the No. 1 Denver Nuggets will take on the No. 7 Los Angeles Lakers. With the action starting at Denver’s Ball Arena on Tuesday night, the Nuggets come in favored by six points at DraftKings Sportsbook to win Game 1. For the overall series, Denver is a -155 favorite to win, while the Lakers are priced at +130 to advance to the 2022-23 NBA Finals.
Nuggets vs. Lakers series props
Series Correct Score: Nuggets 4-3 (+300)
As stated in the Nuggets-Lakers series preview, I am a full believer that this series goes the distance. Both sides have physicality across the board, and both sides have gone undefeated at home in these 2023 NBA playoffs. However, given the Nuggets’ long track record of success when playing in “The Mile High,” I lean toward Denver to win a pivotal Game 7 at home. For a 3/1 payout, I feel confident enough to sprinkle a play here.
Series Exact Games: 7 (+170)
Using the same rationale as above, I truly think this series is built to last all seven games. When you glance at the respective size and athleticism on these rosters, they match up quite closely. Additionally, both squads are sound on both sides of the floor. Given all the momentum the Lakers and Nuggets have built in the postseason to this point, I like this to go seven. At +170, any plus-money win is a good win!
Series Winner: Lakers (+130)
Last round, I explained that there was not as much value on playing the Warriors to advance, so I went with the Lake Show. I am going with that same logic again. I understand that these Nuggets are not those Warriors, but there’s something good about taking a LeBron James-led squad at an underdog price before the NBA Finals. With a better payout and a very real chance to do the deed, I am playing the Lakers at +130 to get by Denver.