On Friday, it looked as if the short-handed Lakers were going to shock the Nuggets, but miscues down the stretch led to another loss.

Analyzing Friday’s Los Angeles Lakers at Denver Nuggets odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Bucks allowed Doncic to go off for 45 points, which was the most he scored in a Lakers uniform. But with 23 points chipped in from veteran big Brook Lopez along with four blocks, the Bucks were able to get a much-needed win. After the game, Lillard took some time during his media session to heap big-time praise on the Slovenian superstar.

Luka Doncic didn't play in the Lakers' 131-126 loss at Denver Friday night, joining LeBron James on the team's lengthy list of unavailable players