The Lakers have picked up their pace winning eight of their last 12 games. This includes three straight victories to close out a six-game road trip. 
Sometimes it's dangerous to back a team playing their first home game following a lengthy road trip. That certainly was the case with the Clippers last night. They lost to the Pelicans by 11 points as a 6 1/2-point home favorite. The Clippers had been playing well, too.

But this is a different case and much different situation. The Clippers only had one day of rest after returning to Los Angeles. The Lakers concluded their road swing this past Monday giving them two full days of rest and preparation. 

This also is the Lakers' biggest game of the season and it isn't just because they're playing the defending world champion Nuggets. 

It's a special night because the Lakers organization will be honoring the late Kobe Bryant before the game unveiling a statue of him. The game is going to be heavily attended with many dignitaries. It is being shown nationally on TNT. 

"Win one for Kobe,'' will be the Lakers' motto. So I'm expecting maximum motivation and effort. 

The Nuggets are off back-to-back home victories against the 15-35 Trail Blazers. Not exactly a worthy opponent. Denver has lost in its two previous road games, falling to the Thunder and getting blown out by the Knicks.