Denver at Los Angeles

The Los Angeles Lakers made a huge statement in Game 1 as they got out fast and strong. They never trailed, and took a 21-point lead before coasting to a 15-point win over Denver, en route to a 1-0 series lead. It was a huge team effort with Kobe Bryant leading the way with 31 points, but all five starters scored in double-figures. The Lakers lived in the paint where they tallied 64 points for the game. The Lakers’ defense was great as they cut off the head of the Nuggets’ offense, limiting Ty Lawson to just two assists. The Nuggets were -21 when he was on the floor, and the Nuggets are going to struggle if he is taken out of the game. Most think of LA and think offense, but this is also a rock-solid defensive team, especially when playing at home. They faced just two totals at home all season long of 200 or more points, both against the Nuggets, and both falling short of the total. The Nuggets are always notable as a scoring team, but the playoffs are a different animal. Denver is 25-10-1 to the UNDER in their last 36 quarterfinals playoffs games. The Lakers have been bringing the "D" vs. winning teams as they are a prolific 21-5 to the UNDER in their last 26 vs. a winning team. The Nuggets are failing on a regular basis in LA where they are 6-14-1 ATS in their last 21 vs. The Lake Show. Also, the last 22 meetings here have seen the UNDER prevail at 17-5. Play on Los Angeles and the UNDER.