Western Conference Finals

The West is equally as intriguing, and much like the Heat, Lebron and the Lakers made it all the way here from the Play-in tournament. They get the Denver Nuggets next who have been favorites out West for months now, led by their dominant center and two time MVP, Jokic. LA is peaking at the perfect time, and getting tremendous production up and down their roster. Austin Reaves, D-Lo, Schroeder, and even Lonnie Walker have stepped up massively, to compliment their two stars in James and AD.

#1 Seed For a Reason

That said, they have yet to face competition as stiff as what the Nuggets bring to the table. Outside of Jokic, Murray, Gordon, and KCP make up a starting 5 as good as any in basketball. With depth off the bench, a great coach, and a home court advantage at altitude, this team is poised to get over this hump.

Slight Favorites

Denver currently sits as slight favorites -155 to reach the NBA finals, with the Lake show sitting at 1.3/1. The Lakers looked great against Golden State, knocking off the defending champs in 6. Anthony Davis is as healthy as he ever has been, and Lebron continues to turn back the clock. They also have proven to be way deeper than originally expected, and credit to Rob Pelinka for some strong moves at the deadline.

However, Denver has been consistent all year long as the top team in the West. In my estimation, there is no reason why that would stop now. Yes, the Lakers exposed Golden State, but that team was filled with holes, and not their typical selves all year. LA beat a hobbled Grizzlies team in Round 1, and that was after sneaking into the playoffs in the first place.

Take Denver

There is no questioning who the Nuggets are, and that is the most dominant team in the Western conference. To me, the -155 number to win the series is low, and still a strong value play. The Lakers have responded nicely, but I do not think they are in the same class with Denver. If you are looking for additional value, there are series correct score bets up that you can jump on as well.

The one I will be on is Denver 4-1. I think they take both games at home, drop game 3 before ripping off two straight on their way to the NBA finals. The value on that bet is +410 on Fanduel.