Despite showing signs of life in the first two games of the series, the Lakers are one game away from Cancun. While most NBA pundits had Denver picked for the series, not many people imagined Anthony Davis and LeBron getting swept. In NBA history, no team has rebounded from such a deficit, setting a daunting backdrop as the Lakers head into Game 4.
Historical Precedents and Playoff Odds
While LeBron James famously led a 3-1 Finals comeback against the Warriors in 2016, overcoming a 0-3 hole is uncharted territory. For those betting on the series, this is crucial to remember: the odds are steep, and history is not on the Lakers’ side. The Lakers now find themselves +5000 to win the Finals, which is generous considering they are down 0-3, one game away from home, and there are 5 teams in similar or better situations with much better odds.
Game 3 Breakdown
In Game 3, Nikola Jokic dominated with a triple-double, and Jamal Murray added 27 points, showcasing why the Nuggets are top contenders. The Lakers, despite strong efforts from LeBron and Anthony Davis, couldn’t clamp down defensively, which cost them the game.
Game 4 Prediction: Betting Insights
Heading into Game 4, the Lakers need a strategic shift, especially in defense. LeBron and Davis are expected to perform, but will it be enough? For the Nuggets, maintaining their offensive flow and leveraging their leading duo’s synergy could seal the deal. Anything less than a combined 70+ games from AD and Bron and significant production from D’Angelo Russel and Austin Reeves will result in the brooms coming out as the Lakers (+125) are under dogged again, walking into a must-win situation.
What to Bet On?
For those new to NBA betting, here’s the tip: the Nuggets look poised to sweep and win the title (+240), looking like the most composed team in the playoffs, even more so than their expected Eastern Finalists, the BOS Celtics (+120). The Nuggets outplayed the Lakers consistently, and their team dynamics are superior at this point. Betting on a Nuggets win in Game 4 seems like a wise choice, although the heart of a true NBA enthusiast might still hold a flicker of hope for a miraculous Lakers’ turnaround and a LeComeback.
