3 Games Lakers Could Definitely Lose Before the New Year

The Los Angeles Lakers are off to an extremely hot start in the first few months of the NBA season, sporting a record of 24-3 and currently riding a seven-game win streak. However, the Lakers play some tough games in the next few weeks that could effectively result in them doubling their loss total by the end of the year. Here are three such games that the Lakers could lose before New Year's Day.

3. Lakers vs. Bucks

Lakers' Alex Caruso defending a layup attempt by Bucks' guard Eric Bledsoe. / Dylan Buell/Getty Images

The only team in the NBA with a record as impressive as the Lakers are the Milwaukee Bucks. The Bucks duo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton is among the best in the league, their bench is filled with shooters and Mike Budenholzer is a tremendous coach. Oh, and the game is being played in Milwaukee. Dec. 19 will be a tough win for the Lakers to register.

2. Lakers vs. Clippers

Dwight Howard guarding Kawhi Leonard in the first game of the season. / Harry How/Getty Images

The second matchup of the season between the two Los Angeles teams on Christmas will be an amazingly-enticing game. The Lakers lost in the first matchup, but since then have compiled a record of 24-2. On the other hand, the Los Angeles Clippers have star Paul George healthy, and he wasn't available during their first meeting. A deep team like the Clippers could easily beat the Lakers if they do not stay at the top of their game all 48 minutes.

1. Lakers vs Nuggets

Nikola Jokic battles Anthony Davis / Matthew Stockman/Getty Images

The Lakers won by nine in Denver earlier this season, and you best believe the Nuggets are out for revenge. Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray make for an impressive duo, and they're capable of winning outside of the high altitude. Expect a close one, and perhaps a Denver upset on Dec. 22.