DraftKings Network - Everything you need to know for Nuggets vs. Lakers in Western Conference FinalsAnother great SB Nation bloghttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/52893/DKN_Favicon_32x32..png2020-09-26T20:41:54-07:00http://dknetwork.draftkings.com/rss/stream/211984712020-09-26T20:41:54-07:002020-09-26T20:41:54-07:00LeBron, Lakers return to NBA Finals after Game 5 win vs. Nuggets
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<img alt="LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts to his shot during the second quarter against the Denver Nuggets in Game Five of the Western Conference Finals during the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena at the ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on September 26, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/FZSqgmO79_qdIb3hPFnwRjAL7hU=/0x0:2989x1993/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67475538/1276878995.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>It’s been a few years since King James has been in the championship round. With Anthony Davis, the favorites to win it all will try and get L.A. its 17th title. </p> <p id="Qhpbdw">It’s been a while for the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com">Los Angeles Lakers</a>. It’s been a few years for LeBron James. Both the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/">Lakers</a> and James are back in the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nba-finals">NBA Finals</a>. Los Angeles took care of business, giving the <a href="https://www.denverstiffs.com">Denver Nuggets</a> no chance at another 3-1 comeback series win. The Lakers — led by a huge 38-point triple-double from James — defeated the <a href="https://www.denverstiffs.com/">Nuggets</a> 117-107 in Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals on Saturday night. </p>
<p id="WJRR5F">James finished with 38 points, 16 rebounds and 10 assists for yet another playoff triple-double. This will be James’ 10th NBA Finals appearance. He has won three NBA titles, two with the <a href="https://www.hothothoops.com/">Heat</a> and one with the <a href="https://www.fearthesword.com/">Cavaliers</a>. Anthony Davis will be making his first trip to the finals after scoring 27 points in Game 5. LeBron and AD combined for 65 points in the series-clinching victory. </p>
<p id="GxerYF">The Lakers entered this week as favorites to win it all at -315. They’ll represent the West in the NBA Finals and will be favored over whoever wins between the <a href="https://www.hothothoops.com">Miami Heat</a> and <a href="https://www.celticsblog.com">Boston Celtics</a> out of the East. The Heat lead the Eastern Conference Finals 3-2 heading into Game 6 on Sunday. The Heat are +550 and the <a href="https://www.celticsblog.com/">Celtics</a> are +700 to win the NBA title. </p>
<p id="oWbL66">As for the Nuggets, well, it was an impressive run. Nobody pegged Denver to be in the conference finals and the team was able to upset the <a href="https://www.clipsnation.com">Los Angeles Clippers</a> in the second round. Unfortunately, playing with fire by going down 3-1 in a series can only work out so often. The Nuggets weren’t able to pull off another come-from-behind series win. Jamal Murray finished with 19 points and Nikola Jokic had 20 points in the Game 5 loss. </p>
https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2020/9/26/21457987/lakers-vs-nuggets-western-conference-finals-series-results-recap-score-lebron-james-anthony-davisBenjamin Zweiman2020-09-26T17:50:12-07:002020-09-26T17:50:12-07:00What to make of Anthony Davis injury ahead of Game 5 vs. Nuggets [UPDATE]
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<img alt="Anthony Davis of the Los Angeles Lakers drives in the game against the Denver Nuggets in Game four of the Western Conference Finals of the 2020 Playoffs as part of the NBA Restart 2020 on September 24, 2020 at AdventHealth Arena at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/iUkl1aOOyKZWHIgVUWU6iGbzkcg=/0x0:3000x2000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67474125/1228706095.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Jim Poorten/NBAE via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Lakers are listing AD as questionable due to an ankle injury. He’s confirmed in the starting lineup alongside Dwight Howard again. </p> <p id="KcblxC"><strong>UPDATE:</strong> <span>Davis</span> is confirmed in the starting lineup along with <span>Dwight Howard</span> again. This was to be expected with Vogel saying that Davis would be good to go for Game 5 on Saturday night. Davis is fine to roll out in DFS Showdowns and I don’t see any reason why he’d be limited at all. Just now that the ankle likely isn’t 100%, so Davis is a minor risk of injury in-game (or maybe a trip or two to the locker room). </p>
<p id="8oizHF"><a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com">Los Angeles Lakers</a> PF <span>Anthony Davis</span> popped up on the injury report ahead of Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals against the <a href="https://www.denverstiffs.com">Denver Nuggets</a> on Saturday night. AD is dealing with an ankle injury, though coach <span>Frank Vogel</span> already came out and said <span>Davis</span> should be good to go for the game. With <span>Davis</span> expected to play, we shouldn’t buy into the injury much, right? Let’s take a look at the potential impact. </p>
<p id="Oac65f">In Game 4, Vogel inserted <span>Dwight Howard</span> into the starting lineup. This could have been a precursor to the injury now that we think about it a bit. <span>Howard</span> provides a steady presence down low to clear the glass, something AD didn’t do any of in Game 3, when he had two boards. Davis still played 41 minutes in Game 4 and had 34 points, so again, he’s probably fine and this isn’t anything to worry about. We could see more run out of <span>Howard</span> on Saturday night, so if he remains in the starting lineup, he’ll be an interesting play again. </p>
<p id="IF4Bfr">Really, the only thing we can takeaway from Davis being listed on the injury report is the mental aspect of it all. The <a href="https://www.denverstiffs.com/">Nuggets</a> have overcome a 3-1 deficit in two straight series. Davis being banged up should only increase the confidence level of the Nuggets. They’ve faced adversity before and have overcome. They’ll need to do the same again if they want to make it to the Finals. Knowing that there’s a small fraction of doubt in Davis’ left ankle should give Denver added hope of pulling off another comeback. </p>
<p id="mDnmwz">Because of this line of thinking and perhaps the AD injury, the line on Game 5 has moved down to its lowest of the series — <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/">Lakers</a> -5. This is likely a lot of the public leaning towards the Nuggets at least extending the series another game after what we’ve seen the past two series. I imagine a lot of the sharp money is coming in on the Lakers at this low number. Even in a close game, if the Lakers are up, fouls will come into play with Denver’s season potentially coming to an end. Unless there’s some crazy buzzer-beater, if the Lakers win, they should cover this spread in my eyes. </p>
<p id="A7taUR"><em>If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ/WV/PA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (NH/CO) or 1-800-BETS OFF (IA). 21+ (18+ NH). NJ/PA/WV/IN/NH/IA/CO/IL only. Eligibility restrictions apply. See </em><a href="http://draftkings.com/sportsbook"><em>draftkings.com/sportsbook</em></a><em> for full terms and conditions.</em></p>
https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2020/9/26/21457471/anthony-davis-injury-update-lakers-vs-nuggets-game-5-lineup-status-lebron-jamesBenjamin Zweiman2020-09-26T11:44:00-07:002020-09-26T11:44:00-07:00Best player prop bets for Lakers-Nuggets Game 5 matchup
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<img alt="Dwight Howard of the Los Angeles Lakers grabs the rebound against the Denver Nuggets during Game Four of the Western Conference Finals on September 24, 2020 in Orlando, Florida at AdventHealth Arena." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/TUy3aYLbbx-SILwDyRBEwhnJU1A=/0x0:8256x5504/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67474212/1228695582.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>We go over some prop bets that stand out ahead of Saturday’s Game 5 matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and Denver Nuggets. </p> <p id="4qEHDo">We had an off night on Friday in Game 5 between the <a href="https://www.hothothoops.com">Miami Heat</a> and <a href="https://www.celticsblog.com">Boston Celtics</a>. Our prop bets went 1-2 with the poor outing from <span>Tyler Herro</span> and the <span>Kemba Walker</span> getting into foul trouble. We’re still at 6-4 over the past three games and will look to get back on track with some picks for Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals between the <a href="https://www.denverstiffs.com">Denver Nuggets</a> and <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com">Los Angeles Lakers</a>. Here are some of our favorite player prop bets on <a href="https://www.draftkings.com/sportsbook">DraftKings Sportsbook</a>. </p>
<h2 id="R0fzMS">
<span>Dwight Howard</span> over 7.5 rebounds (-103)</h2>
<p id="cmMc1K">This feels like a pretty strong number after what we saw in Game 4 from <span>Howard</span>. He was inserted into the starting lineup and finished with a double-double in just over 20 minutes. The <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/">Lakers</a> were up most of the game and <span>Frank Vogel</span>’s strategy to go a bit bigger down low certainly worked out. Might we see Dwight down low on <span>Nikola Jokic</span> more in Game 5? Will the <span>Anthony Davis</span> injury cause Vogel to go to <span>Howard</span> more? If that is the case, then he’ll have another shot at a double-double and this line is really appealing. </p>
<h2 id="HlpNZS">
<span>Jamal Murray</span> to outscore <span>Anthony Davis</span> (+118)</h2>
<p id="YgEUYA">The safer play is to bet <span>Murray</span> to outscore <span>LeBron James</span> at -110. That’s no fun though. We want the juice! In the previous two Game 5s, Murray dropped 42 and 26 points, respectively. In the game against the <a href="https://www.clipsnation.com/">Clippers</a> last round, Murray shot the ball miserably in Game 5. So far in this series, Murray is killing the Lakers, shooting 54.8% from the floor. So I think we’ll see something closer to Murray’s Game 5 performance in the first round. I think AD’s ankle is fine but it’s still sort of lingering in the back of my mind. If he tweaks it at all, that could mean fewer minutes. I’m expecting a big game from Murray with the season on the line again. </p>
<h2 id="TTdnnz">
<span>Nikola Jokic</span> over 1.5 3-pointers made (-107)</h2>
<p id="WvLOVP">There’s not a ton that sticks out as far as player props in this game. Jokic made a pair of 3-pointers in the Game 4 loss but has otherwise been quiet from outside in the series. I’m about the narrative that Jokic and Murray will both step up with the season on the line. Joker had one of his worst games of the postseason on Thursday night. I think he needs to get outside a bit more and stretch the floor, clearing the paint out for Murray to get to the hole. If Murray is aggressive, I think we see more 3-point attempts from Jokic on kick-outs. This isn’t a high number really and the line is solid. If you aren’t into the narrative, Jokic has gone over this number in 12-of-18 playoff games. So there are your numbers. </p>
<p id="h9d1dB"><em>If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ/WV/PA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (NH/CO) or 1-800-BETS OFF (IA). 21+ (18+ NH). NJ/PA/WV/IN/NH/IA/CO/IL only. Eligibility restrictions apply. See </em><a href="http://draftkings.com/sportsbook"><em>draftkings.com/sportsbook</em></a><em> for full terms and conditions.</em></p>
https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2020/9/26/21457488/lakers-vs-nuggets-game-5-picks-predictions-odds-betting-lines-prop-bets-dwight-howard-anthony-davisBenjamin Zweiman2020-09-26T04:00:00-07:002020-09-26T04:00:00-07:00Top fades, value plays for Nuggets vs. Lakers Game 5 NBA Showdown
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<img alt="LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on in the game against the Denver Nuggets in Game four of the Western Conference Finals of the 2020 Playoffs as part of the NBA Restart 2020 on September 24, 2020 at AdventHealth Arena at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Z98X8p9xijnb9eCAiWZ_9utzzA0=/0x0:2895x1930/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67472742/1228706136.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Jim Poorten/NBAE via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>We go over the best lineup strategy, including fades and value options for Saturday’s DraftKings Showdown contest between Denver and Los Angeles. </p> <p id="WKcIen">The <a href="https://www.denverstiffs.com">Denver Nuggets</a> will once again go after a comeback series win down 3-1. This time is happens on the biggest stage, in the Western Conference Finals agains <span>LeBron James</span> and the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com">Los Angeles Lakers</a>. In the previous two rounds, the <a href="https://www.denverstiffs.com/">Nuggets</a> have come back down 3-1 in the series. If they can pull off another improbable win, the Nuggets might go down in history as one of the greatest comeback teams of all-time. Let’s take a look at the DraftKings Showdown contest and how to approach certain lineup decisions. </p>
<p id="7TL6y7">Set your DraftKings lineup <a href="https://www.draftkings.com/gateway?s=807561836">here</a>.</p>
<h2 id="smDmTO">Players to Fade</h2>
<h3 id="GtHytI">
<span>Michael Porter Jr.</span> ($7,200)</h3>
<p id="WK30dg">It’s been like a few months now and we’re still not getting on MPJ in the playoffs. He just isn’t seeing the type of minutes we want out of someone who is priced up this high in the Western Conference Finals. He hasn’t had double-digit field goal attempts since the second round. The highest total he’s gotten to is 9 in a game this series. He just isn’t getting the scoring volume like before and that stunts his value. Overall, the best way to approach lineups in the Showdown for Game 5 is stars and scrubs with maybe a mid-range play mixed in there. </p>
<h3 id="ZhHymV">
<span>Jerami Grant</span> ($6,600)</h3>
<p id="iLnYom">Last game the Nuggets lost and <span>Grant</span> got a ton of minutes and usage, so I assume those numbers will come down a bit. This price isn’t great for a player like Grant, who really is only going to be valuable if he scores. He’s been scoring more with <span>Nikola Jokic</span> struggling. With the Nuggets down 3-1, I’m expecting a better game from Jokic. If that’s the case, Grant likely doesn’t get to 20 points and his peripheral stats aren’t good enough for this price. </p>
<h2 id="FtQmaL">Value Picks</h2>
<h3 id="MMNgOW">
<span>Dwight Howard</span> ($4,200)</h3>
<p id="U8hBQt"><a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/">Lakers</a> coach <span>Frank Vogel</span> inserted <span>Howard</span> into the starting lineup at center for Game 4 and it worked out. <span>Howard</span> brought an element inside that the Lakers had been lacking and Jokic was off for pretty much the entire game. Howard only played 23 minutes but he had 12 points and 11 rebounds. He was incredibly productive in that role and if it continues, we have to get in on it. Howard will likely be chalky as a result, only if the starting spot continues into Game 5, but I don’t see any reason for it not to. </p>
<h3 id="TUBkCT">
<span>Gary Harris</span> ($3,400)</h3>
<p id="SnDYj3">I’m not going to come out here and preach that <span>Gary Harris</span> needs to do a little more, but Gary Harris needs to do a little more. He’s been starting since returning from injury and only played 19 minutes in the Game 4 loss. The Nuggets are pretty much <span>Jamal Murray</span> and <span>Nikola Jokic</span> and a bunch of fill-ins. Harris can change that narrative with a strong performance but it hasn’t happened this postseason. This is an extremely low price for Harris, so when value is hard to come by, we need to turn to players who have done it before. </p>
https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2020/9/26/21457099/nba-dfs-draftkings-showdown-picks-strategy-lineup-advice-lakers-vs-nuggets-game-5-lebron-jamesBenjamin Zweiman2020-09-26T04:00:00-07:002020-09-26T04:00:00-07:00How to watch, what to watch for Lakers vs. Nuggets Game 5
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<img alt="LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers and Anthony Davis of the Los Angeles Lakers react after their win against the Denver Nuggets in Game Four of the Western Conference Finals during the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena at the ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on September 24, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/5OFgM0x5nRbxDyI2D4ueqME0dbg=/0x0:2191x1461/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67472748/1276551175.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>We go over how to watch the start of the Western Conference Finals between Denver and Los Angeles on Saturday, plus look at the betting lines and make a pick for Game 5. </p> <p id="A2XBKu">You didn’t really think this series would end before the <a href="https://www.denverstiffs.com">Denver Nuggets</a> went down 3-1, did you? Come on now! The <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com">Los Angeles Lakers</a> may have fallen into a trap by winning Game 4 on Thursday night. The Western Conference Finals is at 3-1, the third straight series in which the <a href="https://www.denverstiffs.com/">Nuggets</a> have had the same deficit. Are we going to see the resilience we saw in the first two rounds? Something tells me <span>Jamal Murray</span> and <span>Nikola Jokic</span> aren’t quite done yet. Let’s get you ready for Game 5 on Saturday. </p>
<h2 id="otlwK3">Game Time/TV Channel/Streaming</h2>
<p id="mvcjll">Game 5 on Saturday will take place at 9:00 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcasted on TNT and will be streaming on the TNT app. </p>
<h2 id="KccW0m">Point Spread, Totals, Odds</h2>
<p id="BMhcxp"><strong>Spread:</strong> <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/">Lakers</a> -6<br><strong>Over/Under:</strong> 215<br><strong>Moneyline:</strong> Lakers (-250), Nuggets (+205)</p>
<h2 id="oVifri">The Best Bet: Nuggets ML +205</h2>
<p id="8a7IEH">I don’t think this series is over. Even if the Nuggets don’t come back and win three straight to make it to the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nba-finals">NBA Finals</a>. I think Denver has at least another win or two in them before bowing out to <span>LeBron James</span> and the Lakers. We saw a little bit of that fight and resilience in Game 4. The Nuggets never really went away, they just couldn’t string together enough stops and <span>Nikola Jokic</span> had one of his worst games of the postseason. So I’m willing to chalk up Game 4s loss as more of an outlier. We should see a tighter game on Saturday night. </p>
<p id="8f2zi2">Let’s also not forget that the Lakers still can’t stop <span>Jamal Murray</span>. The budding star had 32 points on 12-of-20 shooting from the floor. If Murray needs to take over Game 5, he will and it could mean Denver pulls away like it did in the win in Game 3. The lines haven’t been giving the Nuggets much credit all series and with their backs against the wall, I’m looking for Denver to extend the Western Conference Finals another game. </p>
<p id="NVDcWs"><em>If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ/WV/PA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (NH/CO) or 1-800-BETS OFF (IA). 21+ (18+ NH). NJ/PA/WV/IN/NH/IA/CO/IL only. Eligibility restrictions apply. See draftkings.com/</em><a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/featured"><em>sportsbook</em></a><em> for full terms and conditions.</em> </p>
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https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2020/9/26/21456310/lakers-vs-nuggets-western-conference-finals-game-5-tv-schedule-channel-game-time-spread-oddsBenjamin Zweiman2020-09-25T08:58:50-07:002020-09-25T08:58:50-07:00Don’t look now but the Nuggets are .... down 3-1 in a playoff series
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<img alt="The Denver Nuggets react during Game Four of the Western Conference Finals of the NBA Playoffs on September 24, 2020 at AdventHealth Arena at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida.&nbsp;" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/eBVNBopIANpd-HPStz6eF4UC66Q=/0x0:6000x4000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67468770/1228696075.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Denver dropped Game 4 on Thursday night to the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference Finals. Will the Nuggets come back down 3-1 again? </p> <p id="olLRqM">There has to be a higher power at work here, right? Is there like a Blood Moon coming up or something? A Fall solstice (I don’t even know if that’s a thing)? Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, sham on me. Fool me three times, well, you know the J. Cole lyrics. Is that what the <a href="https://www.denverstiffs.com">Denver Nuggets</a> are about to do to the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com">Los Angeles Lakers</a> after going down 3-1 in a playoff series for the third straight time in 2020? It might be. </p>
<p id="HRN56L">So the <a href="https://www.denverstiffs.com/">Nuggets</a> lost pretty conventionally to the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/">Lakers</a> on Thursday night 114-108 in Game 4. Los Angeles came out fast and got out to a big lead, no defense was played pretty much the entire night, and <span>Anthony Davis</span> ate the Nuggets up like a 20-piece from McDonalds. So now Denver has to be having flashbacks. These are good flashbacks though! This is essentially the same way the second round went against the <a href="https://www.clipsnation.com/">Clippers</a>. Drop 2 games without question. Drop 1 close game. Win one game easily. It’s not the exact same pattern as the first round, but close enough, right? We’re at a 3-1 deficit again. </p>
<p id="FBqFCT">Honestly, I didn’t think it would come to this again. <a href="https://www.draftkings.com/sportsbook">DraftKings Sportsbook</a> offered a pretty crazy boost before the series started. The Nuggets were <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/featured?code=KRN-006&category=live-in-game&subcategory=soccer">boosted to +8000</a> to go down in the series 3-1 and come back to win in seven games. Getting to this point was half the battle. Now that we’re here, we can seriously talk about whether it’s going to happen or not.</p>
<p id="rGWhG9">Personally, I don’t see it happening. I just don’t think this LeBron James-<span>Anthony Davis</span> combo would lose three in a row to this Nuggets team after what we’ve seen so far in the series. Coach Frank Vogel even made some adjustments in Game 4, inserting <span>Dwight Howard</span> into the starting lineup for more size. It worked pretty well. </p>
<p id="XgBfqN">In Game 3, the issue was on the glass with AD only grabbing two boards. Instead of worrying about the defensive end and rebounding, <span>Davis</span> can operate as the focus of the offense with <span>Howard</span> in there to clean things up. <span>Howard</span> finished with 12 points and 11 boards in 23 minutes. This also spread out the bench minutes and probably kept some guys fresh. Playoff Rajon Rondo had been seeing around 30 minutes per game. He played 22 in Game 4. It was a bold, yet strong, move from Vogel knowing the series could go longer than expected. </p>
<p id="DVtRON">Howard also made things a bit tougher on <span>Nikola Jokic</span>, who had arguably one of his worst games of these playoffs. Joker finished with 16 points, 7 boards and 4 assists. He had 5 fouls also. It’s going to be tough on the Nuggets if <span>Mason Plumlee</span> has to play 14 minutes in the playoffs. I think the idea was to disrupt the dynamic duo of <span>Jamal Murray</span> and <span>Jokic</span>. Take one out of the equation and the Lakers can win pretty easily with LeBron and AD. For these reasons, I just don’t see three straight losses coming for the Lakers. One, maybe two, but not three in a row. </p>
<p id="wMJFRN"><em>If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ/WV/PA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (NH/CO) or 1-800-BETS OFF (IA). 21+ (18+ NH). NJ/PA/WV/IN/NH/IA/CO/IL only. Eligibility restrictions apply. See </em><a href="http://draftkings.com/sportsbook"><em>draftkings.com/sportsbook</em></a><em> for full terms and conditions.</em></p>
https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2020/9/25/21456061/nuggets-vs-lakers-western-conference-finals-series-3-1-deficit-nba-playoffs-comeback-oddsBenjamin Zweiman2020-09-24T10:17:12-07:002020-09-24T10:17:12-07:00How to watch, what to watch for Lakers vs. Nuggets Game 4 [UPDATE]
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<img alt="Jamal Murray and Jerian Grant of the Denver Nuggets celebrates in the game against the Los Angeles Lakers in Game three of the Western Conference Finals of the 2020 Playoffs as part of the NBA Restart 2020 on September 22, 2020 at AdventHealth Arena at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/OR3nkiQEDWjERri4kwkk23PnCuc=/0x0:3000x2000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67460577/1228671592.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Jim Poorten/NBAE via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>We go over how to watch the start of the Western Conference Finals between Denver and Los Angeles on Thursday, plus look at the betting lines and make a pick for Game 4. </p> <p id="DPDeZo">We’ve got ourselves a series! The <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/">Los Angeles Lakers</a> almost came back after trailing by 22 after the third quarter in Game 3 vs. the <a href="https://www.denverstiffs.com/">Denver Nuggets</a> on Tuesday. Except they didn’t. The Nuggets eventually held on to defeat the Lakers and make the Western Conference Finals 2-1. So we won’t see a sweep and we may even see another 3-1 comeback by Denver. Who knows? So we enter a pivotal Game 4 in the NBA bubble. Let’s get you ready for the game. </p>
<h2 id="otlwK3">Game Time/TV Channel/Streaming</h2>
<p id="mvcjll">Game 4 on Thursday will take place at 9:00 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcasted on TNT and will be streaming on the TNT app. </p>
<h2 id="KccW0m">Point Spread, Totals, Odds</h2>
<p id="BMhcxp"><strong>Spread:</strong> Lakers -6<br><strong>Over/Under:</strong> 214.5<br><strong>Moneyline:</strong> Lakers (-250), Nuggets (+205)</p>
<p id="9DFYkC">Here are some updated betting splits as of this afternoon for Game 4 via <a href="https://www.draftkings.com/sportsbook">DraftKings Sportsbook</a>. </p>
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<h2 id="TrBvG7">The Best Bet: Nuggets +6 (-110)</h2>
<p id="gZH5t9">I’m going to ride the Nuggets coming off an impressive win in Game 3. Sure, they almost blew it at the end but they didn’t. Good teams don’t fall apart completely and when it looked like the Lakers were going to push and make it 3-0, Denver came right back fighting. Realistically, the Nuggets should be up 2-1 had it not been for <span>Anthony Davis</span>’ 3-pointer at the buzzer in Game 2. So this series should be a lot closer than this line suggest. Think of it this way: Had AD missed that shot and the Nuggets were up 2-1, what’s the line look like with Denver leading the series? Is it a few points down? Probably. So I think we’ll see this line move and I’m going to take the points again. </p>
<p id="5KGyRu"><em>If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ/WV/PA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (NH/CO) or 1-800-BETS OFF (IA). 21+ (18+ NH). NJ/PA/WV/IN/NH/IA/CO/IL only. Eligibility restrictions apply. See draftkings.com/</em><a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/featured"><em>sportsbook</em></a><em> for full terms and conditions.</em></p>
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https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2020/9/24/21453441/lakers-vs-nuggets-western-conference-finals-game-4-tv-schedule-channel-game-time-spread-oddsBenjamin Zweiman2020-09-24T10:14:58-07:002020-09-24T10:14:58-07:00Taking an early look at the NBA Finals MVP market [UPDATE]
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<img alt="LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers during the first quarter against the Denver Nuggets in Game Three of the Western Conference Finals during the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena at the ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on September 22, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida.&nbsp;" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/bKIW8G3wLmjKn2VMU4ZyhMpWGB0=/0x0:4677x3118/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67455828/1275716156.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>With the 2020 NBA Finals expected to start some time next week, we take a look at the current odds to win MVP. </p> <p id="8S3ZAt">The 2020 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nba-finals">NBA Finals</a> matchup hasn’t been set but the market for who will win MVP is already posted on <a href="https://www.draftkings.com/sportsbook">DraftKings Sportsbook</a>. With four teams still in it, this gives us an opportunity to see how the favorites stack up while also potentially landing some value bets while odds are lower on certain players. Let’s break down some of the odds, including favorites and long-shot bets. </p>
<p id="bXbKS9">Let’s start at the top with the two most obvious choices: <span>LeBron James</span> (+100) and <span>Anthony Davis</span> (+225). From a value standpoint, the clear bet is AD, right? He’s been the best player in the Western Conference Finals through three games and hit the game-winner in Game 3. LeBron has the history and narrative on his side a bit, but AD has been the better player for the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/">Lakers</a> throughout the postseason. In my eyes, it should be closer between the two in terms of odds and it isn’t. </p>
<p id="dvZIgJ">After that, things get very interesting. If you’re of the thought that the Lakers won’t hold on and win the Finals, then there’s a ton of value. <span>Jimmy Butler</span> and <span>Jayson Tatum</span> are the best players on their respective teams and both come in at +1300. The <a href="https://www.hothothoops.com/">Heat</a> and <a href="https://www.celticsblog.com/">Celtics</a> have a legit shot of beating the Lakers in a seven-game series, so getting these two at 13/1 is appealing. <span>Butler</span> had arguably been the MVP of the postseason through two rounds after helping the Heat sweep the No. 1 seeded <a href="https://www.brewhoop.com/">Bucks</a>. <span>Tatum</span> has emerged as a budding superstar and is leading Boston in scoring by a wide margin. </p>
<p id="zPwkDv">My favorite way to approach the Finals MVP market is looking at long-shots, particularly where <span>Jamal Murray</span> and <span>Nikola Jokic</span> are at. <span>Murray</span> is somehow behind <span>Jokic</span> and has worse odds than Jaylen Brown AND <span>Goran Dragic</span>? Seriously? If the <a href="https://www.denverstiffs.com/">Nuggets</a> can come back and get to the Finals, you’ likely see Murray jump from +4000 to potentially the favorite. He’d at least have top 3 odds depending on the matchup. I kind of like throwing a little bit of dough on Murray at 40/1 in hopes he lifts Denver to the Finals. Even Jokic at 30/1 gives us some good value. </p>
<p id="y1sBc4">My last value pick would be Kemba Walker. He’s the veteran leader of the Celtics, so if Boston can make it through to the Finals, it would be Kemba’s first crack at a title. Knowing a player like Walker, he’ll relish this opportunity and is a sneaky play to steal the series from the Lakers or Nuggets. If you think L.A. won’t make it through, remember, now is the time to get in on the Finals MVP market. </p>
<p id="k1FSWx"><strong>Update, Sept. 24 </strong>— After Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals, we saw some movement on the Heat and Celtics players. <span>Jimmy Butler</span>, Bam and Dragic all saw their odds jump up slightly for Finals MVP. The biggest mover, however, was <span>Tyler Herro</span>, who was 100/1 and is now 40/1 after dropping 37 points in Game 4. With the Heat up 3-1, it looks like getting in on some action on Miami makes sense. Butler, Bam and Herro would be my favorite picks if the Heat can pull it off and win it all. </p>
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<p id="1g62lL"><em>If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ/WV/PA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (NH/CO) or 1-800-BETS OFF (IA). 21+ (18+ NH). NJ/PA/WV/IN/NH/IA/CO/IL only. Eligibility restrictions apply. See </em><a href="http://draftkings.com/sportsbook"><em>draftkings.com/sportsbook</em></a><em> for full terms and conditions.</em></p>
https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2020/9/23/21452643/nba-finals-2020-mvp-odds-list-picks-favorites-lebron-james-anthony-davis-jimmy-butlerBenjamin Zweiman