Pick #5: LAL ML (-115 ESPNbet)

**NBA Playoff Betting Preview: Denver Nuggets vs Los Angeles Lakers**

As the NBA Playoffs intensify, the Denver Nuggets and the Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for a pivotal Game Three showdown on Thursday. With the Nuggets currently leading 2-0, the Lakers are hungry for a crucial victory that could tilt the momentum in their favor.

For Lakers fans, Thursday's game represents a golden opportunity for redemption after a string of heartbreaking losses to the Nuggets in recent matchups. Despite holding commanding leads in several of their previous encounters, the Lakers have struggled to close out games against the Nuggets, resulting in a frustrating streak of 10 consecutive losses.

However, Game Three presents a chance for the Lakers to silence their doubters and prove that they have what it takes to compete with the Nuggets for a full 48 minutes. With their backs against the wall, the Lakers will be motivated to deliver a statement performance and avoid falling into a 3-0 series deficit.

One key factor working in the Lakers' favor is their strong home-court advantage. Historically, the Nuggets have struggled on the road, posting a modest 24-17 record away from home during the regular season. This bodes well for a desperate Lakers squad looking to capitalize on their home-court advantage and turn the tide in the series.

In addition to their home-court advantage, the Lakers have shown flashes of brilliance in the series thus far, particularly on the offensive end. Despite falling short in Game Two, the Lakers displayed impressive efficiency on offense, connecting on 49% of their field goals compared to the Nuggets' 45% shooting.

A major catalyst for the Lakers' offensive prowess has been the dominant play of Anthony Davis, who has been virtually unstoppable throughout the series. Davis has showcased his versatility and scoring prowess, tallying 32 points in each of the first two games while also contributing 25 rebounds.

With Davis leading the charge, the Lakers boast the firepower necessary to match up with the Nuggets' formidable lineup, particularly reigning MVP Nikola Jokic. Davis' ability to hold his own against Jokic has been a bright spot for the Lakers, and they will look to capitalize on his stellar play in Game Three.

As the Lakers prepare to square off against the Nuggets in Game Three, bettors should keep a close eye on Los Angeles' ability to harness their home-court advantage and execute down the stretch. With Anthony Davis leading the charge, the Lakers are poised to secure a pivotal victory and shift the momentum in their favor as they look to seize control of the series.