Things are going exactly as predicted, and game 2 of the Western Conference Finals (WCF) is tonight. The Lakers mounted a furious comeback to give themselves, and their fans, just enough to hope to be let down. Both teams are going to make adjustments, and looking to maximize match-ups. The centers of Nikola Jokic and Anthony Davis (AD), combined for 74 points, 31 rebounds, 17 assist, 3 steals, and 4 blocks. There were several contributing moments from Lebron James, Austin Reaves, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Michael Porter Jr, and Jamal Murray, but Jokic and AD were the driving force for their teams.

Tonight should be another great matchup. Look for the shooting around the perimeter to continue from Denver, and look for Lebron to keep his high energy throughout the game. Anthony Davis will have to be superb for the Lakers to have a chance and he has had low scoring performances in the 2023 playoffs. The success of their season hinges on his performance.

Although some see the narrative that the Nuggets were lucky to escape game 1 with a win, the perception could be flipped. The Lakers played their best second half of the season and it wasn’t enough to overcome a terrible 2nd half from the Nuggets. The short turn around favors the Nuggets as the Lakers are hurt, and still attempting to ‘feel out’ their rotation. Look for the Nuggets to win again at Ball Arena, something they have done all season.

Bets of the Night: ‘If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.’
Michael Porter Jr (MPJ) OVER 2.5 3s made (-105). He went over this exact line in game 1, and nearly had two more attempts go in. He ended the game on a 50% of 3 of 6, played more minutes, and will have favorable match ups if Jokic draws the attention of Rui Hachimura and AD. Trust this bet as it has been one of the most reliable bets of the 2023 NBA calendar year.
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope OVER 10.5 Points (-105). He has scored 21 points in his last two games, he has 36 minutes in those games, and simply looks in rhythm. He is playing a team that he is familiar with, and playing in Ball Arena with Jokic who is being unselfish. This line should be covered with ease, as the bookies let another slip by unnoticed.

The Golden Triangle:
Center – Nikola Jokic is worth every penny, and it will be impossible to win without him in your lineup. He has 72.8+ fantasy points in eight of has last nine games… Unreal.
Forward – Rui Hachimura has been rumored to start, and play several minutes. His low cost makes him a must add for game 2 as he will be a focal point of their defense, and shooting well in the playoffs.
Guard – Kentavious Caldwell-Pope has been playing so well he can not be ignored. His cost is mid range and he has a chance to overplay his value. His 35+ fantasy points in back to back games are not a fluke.

Enjoy what will be a wonderful game 2 in the WCF
Bet Smart, Be Lucky – Iggy