Overview
- The Denver Nuggets (42-24) host the Los Angeles Lakers (40-24) in a pivotal Western Conference matchup that could influence playoff seeding.
- Nuggets stars Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray are listed as probable and are expected to play, bolstering Denver's lineup.
- The Lakers will be without LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, and Jaxson Hayes due to injuries, further complicating their recent three-game losing streak.
- Luka Doncic remains a bright spot for Los Angeles, averaging 26.9 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 7.9 assists per game despite the team's struggles.
- This is the third meeting between the teams this season, with the series tied 1-1; the final regular-season matchup is scheduled for March 19 in Los Angeles.