The Nuggets held off the Lakers in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals, but they know that there is still plenty of work left to do.
Two-time MVP Nikola Jokic guided his team to victory with a 34-point triple-double, and five other Denver players hit double figures. The defensive effort was inconsistent, though, as Los Angeles shot 66.7 percent in the second half and nearly completed an incredible comeback.
"We protected our home court, and wins are hard to come by this time of the season," Nuggets coach Michael Malone said. "But our defense has to be a hell of a lot better. ... They scored way too easy."
Can Denver pick up the intensity and take a 2-0 lead? Or will LA steal Game 2 on the road?
Here is everything you need to know about Lakers vs. Nuggets, including TV and streaming options for the game.
MORE: Hachimura's defense on Jokic could be game changer for Lakers
What time is Lakers vs. Nuggets tonight?
- Date: Thursday, May 18
- Time: 8:30 p.m. ET | 5:30 p.m. PT
Lakers vs. Nuggets will tip off around 8:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, May 18. The game will be played at Ball Arena in Denver.
What channel is Lakers vs. Nuggets on?
- Date: Thursday, May 18
- TV channel: ESPN
- Live streaming: Sling TV
Lakers vs. Nuggets will air on ESPN. Viewers can also stream the game on Sling TV.
Fans in the U.S. can watch the NBA Playoffs on Sling TV, which is now offering $10 off your first month! Stream the sports you love starting at just $30 in your first month with Sling Orange to catch all the games on TNT, ESPN & ABC. For games on NBA TV, subscribe to Sling Orange & Sports Extra for $27.50 in your first month. Local regional blackout restrictions apply.
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Lakers vs. Nuggets odds
Denver is a 5.5-point favorite heading into Game 2.
| Game Lines | Lakers | Nuggets |
| Spread | +5.5 | -5.5 |
| Moneyline | +180 | -225 |
For the full market, check out BetMGM.
Lakers vs. Nuggets schedule
Here is the complete schedule for the 2023 Western Conference Finals:
| Date | Game | Time (ET) | TV channel |
| May 16 | Nuggets 132, Lakers 126 | 8:30 p.m. | ESPN |
| May 18 | Game 2 | 8:30 p.m. | ESPN |
| May 20 | Game 3 | 8:30 p.m. | ABC |
| May 22 | Game 4 | 8:30 p.m. | ESPN |
| May 24 | Game 5* | 8:30 p.m. | ESPN |
| May 26 | Game 6* | 8:30 p.m. | ESPN |
| May 28 | Game 7* | 8:30 p.m. | ESPN |
*If necessary
