What an unexpected outcome… for some. Game 3 went more or less as described in article V, and the nation is beginning to notice that a LA Lakers vs Boston Celtics NBA Finals is not on the horizon. The question becomes, are the Nuggets grabbing the broom, or winning this back in thin air? Or put simply are the Denver Nuggets winning tonight, or waiting until game 5 to clinch the series at home. The Lakers are out played and out coached, but have champions on their team. How will this game play out?

The popular narrative is a great player will win one game in any series, particularly on their home court. However not winning a game in a series, or being swept, has happened numerous times including once in this 2023 NBA playoff. The truth is LeBron has been playing injured and will likely need surgery/rehab in the offseason. Anthony Davis does not appear to be in peak physical shape, lacks stamina. Austin Reaves has been the Lakers third best player and shooting an outstanding 44.2% from behind the arc, but he’s not going to carry them to a victory. As much pride as the Lakers organization, players, and fans have, they may not have enough to prevent the sweep.

BETS OF THE NIGHT:
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (KCP) OVER 10.5 Points (+100). Excluding game 2 of this series, when he received two fouls in the first 90 seconds of the game, KCP has covered his point line. In two instances doubling it. He feels comfortable on the court at crypto.com Arena, and he could see several shots if Jamal Murray is double-teamed.
Michael Porter Jr. (MPJ) OVER 2.5 Threes made (-125). He has gone over this prop in every game this series. He has shot six or more attempts in every game this series, and he has logged 31+ minutes in every game this series. The odds moved, but not anything substantial. Trust this bet to hit, yet again.

GOLDEN TRIANGLE:
Center – Nikola Jokic had an off night in game 3 and still managed 46.5 fantasy points. He will not have two bad games in a row, and Lebron and AD are both playing injured. Jokic should have a dominant performance.
Forward – Michael Porter Jr. has been playing some of his best basketball of the season. Not only is he still lights out from the perimeter, he has been attacking the paint and has two double-doubles in this series.
Guard – Austin Reaves has established himself as THE guard for the Lakers. He has 36.8 or more fantasy points in every game of this series. He is priced relatively well compared to his output. Get him in the lineup.

Will the 2022-23 Denver Nuggets continue their dominate display, and mark themselves as the best team in franchise history? Or will The King and gang pull through and prevent the sweep? Game 4 is going to be amazing, enjoy the show.

Bet Smart, Be Lucky – Iggy