Los Angeles Lakers odds line spread pick predictions best bets

Utah Jazz at Los Angeles Lakers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Utah Jazz at Los Angeles Lakers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The Utah Jazz (3-10) face the Los Angeles Lakers (9-4) Tuesday as group play for the NBA Cup resumes. Tip-off from Crypto.com Arena is 10:30 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s NBA odds around the Jazz vs. Lakers odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting, Lakers won 2-1 last season

The Jazz, on the third game of a 4-game road trip, have lost 2 in a row and 3 of 4. They are coming off a 116-105 loss to the L.A. Clippers on Sunday, failing to cover the 9.5-point spread as road underdogs.

The Lakers are riding a 5-game winning streak. They last played on Saturday on the road, beating the New Orleans Pelicans 104-99, failing to cover the 8-point spread as favorites. The Under (220.5) cashed in.

Jazz at Lakers odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NBA odds. Lines last updated at 7:06 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Jazz +425 (bet $100 to win $425) | Lakers -600 (bet $600 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Jazz +10.5 (-105) | Lakers -10.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 235.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Jazz at Lakers key injuries

Jazz

C Walker Kessler (hip) out

Lakers

F Anthony Davis (foot) probable
F Rui Hachimura (ankle) questionable
C Jaxson Hayes (ankle) out
G Jalen Hood-Schifino (hamstring) out
G Bronny James (heel) doubtful
F Jarred Vanderbilt (foot) out
F Christian Wood (knee) out

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Jazz at Lakers picks and predictions

Prediction

Lakers 127, Jazz 112

Moneyline

The Lakers are unbeaten (6-0) at home so far this season. The Jazz are 2-5 on the road and 0-2 on their current road trip.

The Lakers have scored 120 points or more in 3 of their last 4 games. The Jazz have not reached 120 points in their last 6 contests.

The Lakers should pick up their sixth consecutive win, but a -600 moneyline bet isn’t worth the action.

PASS.

Against the spread

Five of the Jazz’ last 7 losses have been by more than 10 points and the Lakers’ 2 wins over the Jazz last season were by at least 15 points. But the Lakers’ last 6 wins have not been by more than 10.

That said, with the Jazz playing their third game in 4 nights, it is ripe for a blowout.

BET LAKERS -10.5 (-115).

Over/Under

The last 2 meetings between the teams had totals above 250 and the Lakers scored over 130 in both wins last season.

The Jazz have allowed 120 points or more in 5 of their last 8 games.

BET OVER 235.5 (-105).

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Jess Root on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Los Angeles Lakers at San Antonio Spurs odds, picks and predictions

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

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The San Antonio Spurs (6-6) welcome the Los Angeles Lakers (7-4) to Frost Bank Center Friday for NBA Cup group play. Tip is set for 7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s NBA odds around the Lakers vs. Spurs odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Lakers won 2-1 last season

The Spurs beat the Washington Wizards 139-130 Wednesday, closing as a 9.5-point home favorite. They were led by F Victor Wembanyama, who scored 50 points and drilled 8 triples. San Antonio has won 3 of its last 4 games yet is just 2-4 against the spread (ATS) in its last 6 games. It is 6-6 ATS and 4-3 ATS at home.

The Lakers have rattled off 3 straight wins and beat the Memphis Grizzlies 128-123 at home Wednesday, closing as a 7.5-point favorite. They were led by F LeBron James, who had a triple-doube with 35 points, 12 rebounds and 14 assists. Los Angeles is 6-4 ATS, but just 1-4 ATS on the road.

Lakers at Spurs odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NBA odds. Lines last updated at 12:38 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Lakers -150 (bet $150 to win $100) | Spurs +125 (bet $100 to win $125)
Against the spread (ATS): Lakers -3.5 (-105) | Spurs +3.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 225.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Lakers at Spurs key injuries

Lakers

F Anthony Davis (plantar) probable
G D’Angelo Russell (illness) probable
C Christian Wood (knee) out

Spurs

G Trey Jones (illness) out
F Jeremy Sochan (thumb) out

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Lakers at Spurs picks and predictions

Prediction

Lakers 118, Spurs 116

Moneyline

PASS.

The Spurs have a good shot at winning this game outright, especially with how the Lakers are playing on the road. Given the spread here though, they are better played there.

Against the spread

BET SPURS +3.5 (-115).

The Lakers have won 3 in a row, and they have been nearly unbeatable at home. On the road, they have been a far different team. In their 5 away games, they are 1-4 straight up and ATS. Los Angeles has allowed 125 points or more in 3 of those road games.

The Spurs have scored at least 116 points in their last 2games and are 3-2 ATS at home in their last 5. They have scored well and should have the length in Wembanyama to limit Davis, the Lakers leading scorer. Considering those trends, back SPURS +3.5 (-115).

Over/Under

BET OVER 225.5 (-115).

The Lakers are 3-2 O/U on the road and have scored at least 116 points in 3 straight. Their top 2 scoring options, Davis and James, are shooting over 52% from the field. They have allowed 115 points or more in 4 of their 5 road games.

The Spurs are 6-6 O/U on the season and 5-2 O/U in their last seven. They have allowed at least 111 points in 3 of their last 5 games and averaged 127.5 points over their last 2. With that in mind, back OVER 225.5 (-115).

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Los Angeles Lakers at Toronto Raptors odds, picks and predictions

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

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The Toronto Raptors (1-4) welcome the Los Angeles Lakers (3-2) to Scotiabank Arena Friday. Tip is set for 7:30 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s NBA odds around the Lakers vs. Raptors odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Lakers won both meetings last season

The Raptors lost to the Charlotte Hornets 138-133 Wednesday, closing as a 6-point underdog. While Toronto has lost 3 in a row, it has covered in each and is riding a 4-game covering streak. The Raptors are 1-2 straight up at home and 2-1 against the spread (ATS). They are 2-0 ATS against Western Conference sides as well. Toronto is led by G RJ Barrett‘s 25.5 points per game.

The Lakers kicked off the season red hot, winning 3 straight games against Minnesota, Phoenix and Sacramento. They are coming off a 134-110 road loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers Wednesday which followed a 109-105 road loss to the Suns Monday. Los Angeles is 4-1 ATS and 1-1 ATS on the road, having lost both road games. The Lakers are led by F Anthony Davis, who is averaging 30.6 points and 12.2 rebounds per game.

Lakers at Raptors odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NBA odds. Lines last updated Thursday at 10:14 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Lakers -350 (bet $350 to win $100) | Raptors +260 (bet $100 to win $260)
Against the spread (ATS): Lakers -8.5 (-105) | Raptors +8.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 228.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Lakers at Raptors key injuries

Lakers

G D’Angelo Russell (back) probable
F Jarred Vanderbilt (foot) out
C Christian Wood (knee) out

Raptors

F Scottie Barnes (orbital) out
F Kelly Olynyk (back) out
G Immanuel Quickley (pelvic) doubtful

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Lakers at Raptors picks and predictions

Prediction

Lakers 120, Raptors 110

Moneyline

PASS.

The Lakers are the far better side here and should come out on top, but as a sizable road favorite, they aren’t worth a moneyline play here. Similarly, don’t expect the Raptors to outperform expectations and win outright.

Against the spread

BET LAKERS -8.5 (-105).

The Lakers have covered well this season and have been even better as a favorite. They are 3-0 ATS as a favorite. They have also shot extremely efficiently with 3 of their top 4 scoring options shooting 38% or better from deep. Their leading scorer, Davis, is shooting 54.6% from the field.

While the Raptors have been relatively efficient offensively as well, their defense has struggled, allowing at least 107 points in all 5 games and allowing 127 points or more in 3 of 5. Toronto ranks last in the NBA in defensive rating and will struggle against a quality offense like Los Angeles.

Couple those trends together and back LAKERS -8.5 (-105).

Over/Under

BET OVER 228.5 (-105).

The Lakers and Raptors both play at a pace that ranks in the top half of the NBA. In terms of tempo, the Raptors sit 7th and the Lakers rank 13th. That has helped the Raptors go 4-1 O/U in 5 games, scoring at least 115 points in 3 of those 5.

The Lakers are 3-2 O/U and have gone Over in 3 of their last 4. They have scored at least 123 points twice in the last 4 games. Los Angeles has struggled defensively as well, allowing at least 116 in 3 of 5 games. That said, take OVER 228.5 (-105).

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

If you’re into online slots, including sports-themed games, then check out our guide and discover the best site for slot machines where you live.

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Los Angeles Lakers at Cleveland Cavaliers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Los Angeles Lakers at Cleveland Cavaliers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The Los Angeles Lakers (3-1) are on the road Wednesday to take on the Cleveland Cavaliers (4-0). Tip-off from Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse is at 7 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s NBA odds around the Lakers vs. Cavaliers odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting, Lakers won 2-0 last season

The Lakers started the season with a 3-game winning streak but are coming off their first loss of the season, a 109-105 defeat to the Phoenix Suns on Monday after leading by as many as 18 points. They covered the 4.5-point spread as road underdogs.

The Cavs have started the season with a 4-game winning streak and have covered the spread in all 4 games. They also played on Monday, beating the New York Knicks 110-104 as 3-point road underdogs.

Lakers at Cavaliers odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NBA odds. Lines last updated at 9:59 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Lakers +155 (bet $100 to win $155) | Cavaliers -190 (bet $190 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Lakers +4.5 (-105) | Cavaliers -4.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 225.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Lakers at Cavaliers key injuries

Lakers

C Christian Koloko (reconditioning) out
G Austin Reaves (thigh) probable
G D’Angelo Russell (back) questionable
F Jarred Vanderbilt (foot) out
F Christian Wood (knee) out

Cavaliers

G Craig Porter (thumb) out
F Max Strus (ankle) out

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Lakers at Cavaliers picks and predictions

Prediction

Cavaliers 119, Lakers 112

Moneyline

The Cavs have simply been rolling to start the season. They have scored over 130 points twice and have allowed opponents to scored under 110 points 3 times. They are No. 3 in scoring and No. 3 in scoring defense.

Four starters are averaging over 17 points per game.

The Lakers are No. 6 in scoring so far this season, averaging 117.2 points per game. F Anthony Davis leads the NBA at 32.8 PPG. They, like Cleveland, have 4 players averaging more than 17 PPG.

Cleveland’s defense is what gives them the edge, allowing only 106.8 PPG. That gives them the edge, but don’t bet them at -190.

PASS.

Against the spread

The Cavaliers have covered the spread in every game this season. All 4 of their wins have been by at least 6 points and 3 have been by 10 or more.

The Lakers lost their only road game so far this season.

BET CAVALIERS -4.5 (-115).

Over/Under

Both teams are 2-2 O/U. Both meetings last year split 1-1 O/U.

The Cavs have alternated the Over and the Under in all 4 games this season, and they are coming their lowest total of the young season, 214 in their win over the Knicks.

BET OVER 225.5 (-105).

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Jess Root on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Milwaukee Bucks at Los Angeles Lakers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Milwaukee Bucks at Los Angeles Lakers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Milwaukee Bucks (34-21) drop by Crypto.com Arena Tuesday to play the Los Angeles Lakers (26-28) at 10 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Bucks vs. Lakers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Milwaukee won its third consecutive game Sunday by clobbering the Clippers 137-113 in L.A. as a 5.5-point road favorite. The Bucks are 4-2 straight up (SU) and against the spread (ATS) over the past two weeks.

L.A. has alternated between winning and losing over its last four games with its most recent being a 122-115 comeback overtime victory versus the New York Knicks at home as a 5-point favorite. The Lakers are 3-4 SU but 5-2 ATS in the last 14 days.

The Bucks beat the Lakers 109-102 in Milwaukee Nov. 17 but failed to cover as 9-point home favorites.

Also see: Bet Slippin’ Podcast: NBA February 8 breakdown

Bucks at Lakers odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:07 p.m. ET.

Money line: Bucks -170 (bet $170 to win $100) | Lakers +135 (bet $100 to win $135)
Against the spread: Bucks -3.5 (-115) | Lakers +3.5 (-107)
Over/Under (O/U): 231.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

PLAY: Free, daily sports pick’em contests. Play now!

Bucks at Lakers key injuries

Bucks

SG Grayson Allen (hip) probable

Lakers

SF LeBron James (knee) probable
PF Anthony Davis (wrist) probable
SF Carmelo Anthony (hamstring) out

Deposit $10 or more, get $100 in instant bet credits at Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Place your legal, online sports bets at Tipico. Let’s make this interesting. Bet now!

Bucks at Lakers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bucks 118, Lakers 111

Money line

“LEAN” to the BUCKS (-170) for a one-third unit, if at all, because I’d prefer getting down on Milwaukee outright than sweating the spread. More importantly, Milwaukee’s first-half spread is my favorite wager in this game.

However, the Bucks are nearly at full strength while the Lakers have been very inconsistent and injury-prone.

Milwaukee is plus-6.4 in adjusted net rating (ranked eighth) and L.A. is minus-0.8 in adjusted net rating (ranked 20th) over the last two weeks, according to CleaningTheGlass.com (CTG).

The Bucks are also 13-6 SU as a road favorite (plus-7.8 margin of victory) and the Lakers are 2-2 SU as a home underdog (minus-6.8 margin of victory).

Against the spread

BET the BUCKS -1.5 (-110) FIRST-HALF SPREAD for 1.25 units because Milwaukee has been extremely profitable in the first half this season while L.A. has cost backers several units.

The Bucks have the third-best return on investment (ROI) in the first half (33-22 ATS) and the Lakers have the second-worst ROI in the first half (21-31-2 ATS) according to EVAnalytics.com.

Milwaukee has covered its first-half spread for three straight games and has a plus-12.7 first-half scoring margin over that span. Whereas L.A. is 0-3 ATS in their last three first halves with a minus-6.7 first-half scoring margin.

This also kind of fits how the Lakers, and mainly LeBron, play. LeBron is known to make in-game adjustments based on how his opponent is playing so I could see L.A. using the first half to figure things out.

I “lean” towards Milwaukee laying the points for the full game but the BUCKS -1.5 (-110) FIRST-HALF SPREAD is my favorite bet in this game.

Over/Under

PASS.

Both teams play at a top-10 pace and each is 4-1 O/U in their last five games. However, the Under has cashed in six straight Bucks-Lakers meetings and I just don’t have a strong enough grasp on this total.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and, soon, IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Geoff Clark on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Portland Trail Blazers at Los Angeles Lakers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Portland Trail Blazers at Los Angeles Lakers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Portland Trail Blazers (21-30) stop by the Crypto.com Arena Wednesday to play the Los Angeles Lakers (24-27) at 10:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Trail Blazers vs. Lakers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Portland has lost four of its past five games, including two straight road games, falling at the Chicago Bulls Sunday and at the Oklahoma City Thunder Monday. The Trail Blazers are 3-5 straight up (SU) and 4-4 against the spread (ATS) over the past two weeks.

L.A. is also a loser of four of its past five games, including three straight road games. They lost to the Philadelphia 76ers Thursday, the Charlotte Hornets Friday and Atlanta Hawks Sunday. The Lakers are 2-5 SU and 3-4 ATS in the last 14 days.

These teams split their first two regular-season meetings with the home team winning and covering both.

Also see: Bet Slippin’ Podcast: NBA February 2 breakdown

Trail Blazers at Lakers odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 3:31 p.m. ET.

Money line: Trail Blazers +133 (bet $100 to win $133) | Lakers -165 (bet $165 to win $100)
Against the spread: Trail Blazers +3.5 (-108) | Lakers -3.5 (-112)
Over/Under (O/U): 222.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

PLAY: Free, daily sports pick’em contests. Play now!

Trail Blazers at Lakers key injuries

Trail Blazers

PG Damian Lillard (core) out
SF Nassir Little (shoulder) out
C Jusuf Nurkic (ankle) probable
SG Anfernee Simons (hip) probable

Lakers

PF Anthony Davis (wrist) probable
SF LeBron James (knee) doubtful
SG Malik Monk (groin) probable

Trail Blazers at Lakers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Lakers 120, Trail Blazers 109

Money line

PASS.

this should be a get-right spot for a struggling L.A. team, but the -165 price is too expensive considering the Lakers are just 13-10 SU as home favorites.

Against the spread

BET LAKERS -3.5 (-112).

Davis has owned the Trail Blazers throughout his career and Portland doesn’t have the defense to frustrate Lakers PG Russell Westbrook.

AD attempts a majority of his field goals from mid-range and L.A. attempts the second-highest volume of shots at the rim, according to CleaningTheGlass.com (CTG).

Both of these are areas of weakness for the Trail Blazers. They rank 25th in defensive field-goal percentage versus shots at the rim and 26th versus shots in the mid-range.

The Lakers rank fourth in fast-break points per game (PPG) and 10th in paint PPG, while the Trail Blazers are 20th in both fast-break PPG and paint PPG allowed.

L.A. thrives in transition due in part to Westbrook’s ferociousness and AD should help the Lakers dominate the Trail Blazers inside the paint.

Finally, L.A. has a plus-2.6 effective field-goal shooting percentage (eFG%), while Portland has a minus-2.3 eFG%.

BET 1 unit on the LAKERS -3.5 (-112).

Over/Under

BET OVER 222.5 (-115) for a quarter-unit.

Portland is 10-5 O/U as a road underdog, while L.A. is 14-9 O/U as a home favorite. The Trail Blazers are 21st in defensive FT/FGA rate and the Lakers are 20th.

However, it’s only a “lean” because I prefer L.A.’s spread more than the total and two of the three referees assigned to this game have a combined 25-43 O/U record, which could impact our total if there aren’t a lot of fouls called.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and, soon, IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Geoff Clark on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Los Angeles Lakers at Charlotte Hornets odds, picks and predictions

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

The Los Angeles Lakers (24-25) play their second game in consecutive nights when they visit the Charlotte Hornets (27-22) Friday. Tip-off at Spectrum Center is set for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Lakers vs. Hornets odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

A LeBron James-less L.A. (+6) got clubbed 105-87 by the 76ers Thursday. Lakers PF Anthony Davis balled out in his second game back from injury, scoring 31 points on 66.7% shooting with 12 boards. L.A. is 20-29 against the spread (ATS) and 26-22-1 Over/Under (O/U).

The Hornets (-2) obliterated the Pacers in Indiana 158-126 Wednesday, snapping a two-game losing skid. Since Jan. 17, Charlotte is 4-2 straight-up (SU) and 4-2 ATS.

The Lakers (-2.5) beat the Hornets 126-123 in overtime in their first meeting this season (Nov. 8) for L.A.’s sixth straight victory and cover versus Charlotte. However, James missed the first Lakers-Hornets meeting while Davis was active and played great.

Also see: Bet Slippin’ Podcast: NBA January 28 breakdown

Lakers at Hornets odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:04 p.m. ET.

Money line: Lakers +280 (bet $100 to win $280) | Hornets -370 (bet $370 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Lakers +7.5 (-108) | Hornets -7.5 (-112)
Over/Under (O/U): 227.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

PLAY: Free, daily sports pick’em contests. Play now!

Lakers at Hornets key injuries

Lakers

PF Anthony Davis (wrist) questionable
SF LeBron James (knee) questionable
SG Malik Monk (groin) out
PG Russell Westbrook (knee) questionable

Hornets

SF Gordon Hayward (health and safety protocols) out
SF Kelly Oubre Jr. (ankle) questionable

Lakers at Hornets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Hornets 118, Lakers 109

Money line

PASS. Charlotte (-370) is too expensive considering we still don’t know who’s suiting up for the Lakers.

While both LeBron and AD could play or sit out, imagine holding a Hornets -370 ticket they both are available.

Against the spread

BET the HORNETS -7.5 (-112). They are better rested, have edges to exploit and it’s a much better spot for Charlotte.

First of all, LeBron missed L.A.’s previous game and AD has only played two games since returning from injury. I’d guess LeBron sat Thursday so AD can rest Friday and the Lakers will still have an All-NBA-caliber guy on the floor.

But Charlotte is far better suited to defend LeBron compared to AD. The Hornets are deep at wing and have bodies to throw at LeBron.

Plus, Charlotte SF Miles Bridges is in the midst of a breakout season and you know he’s going to get up for this game.

On top of that, the Hornets have much better ball security than the Lakers and Charlotte forces turnovers, which turn into easy points.

L.A. is 20th in offensive-turnover rate (TOV%), according to CleaningTheGlass.com (CTG), and 23rd in points off of turnovers allowed per game. Charlotte is fifth in defensive TOV% (per CTG) and second in points off of turnovers per game.

Both teams like to push the pace and get out in transition, but the Hornets are fourth in offensive efficiency in the fast break, and the Lakers are 24th.

Furthermore, Charlotte is second in offensive-shot quality mostly because the Hornets have the third-highest volume of shots at the rim and third-highest volume of corner 3-pointers.

But L.A. is 27th in defensive-shot quality and 21st in defensive field-goal percentage versus attempts at the rim. The Hornets are fourth in paint points per game (PPG) and the Lakers are 26th in paint PPG allowed.

Over/Under

PASS since my prediction closely aligns with the projected score so there’s not a lot of value in this total for me.

That said, I “lean” to the Under 227.5 (-110) because Charlotte has stepped up its defense over the past two weeks (eight in adjusted defensive rating) and L.A.’s offense has been in a slump over that span (26th in adjusted offensive rating).

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and, soon, IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Geoff Clark on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Los Angeles Lakers at Brooklyn Nets odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Los Angeles Lakers at Brooklyn Nets odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Los Angeles Lakers (23-24) head to Barclays Center Tuesday for a 7:30 p.m. ET game against the Brooklyn Nets (29-17). Below, we look at the Lakers vs. Nets odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

This is expected to be Lakers F Anthony Davis’ return to action as he’s been sidelined with a knee injury since the middle of December.

Davis returns at a perfect time for L.A. who’s alternated between winning and losing over the last five games with the latest being a 113-107 loss at the Miami Heat as a 4-point road underdog Sunday. The Lakers are 19-28 against the spread (ATS) and 26-20-1 Over/Under (O/U).

Brooklyn had its two-game win streak snapped Sunday after getting routed by the Minnesota Timberwolves 136-125 as a 3-point road underdog. The Nets are 19-27 ATS and 22-24 O/U.

The Nets beat the Lakers 122-115 as 2.5-point underdogs in their first meeting this season on Christmas night. Brooklyn All-Star G James Harden put up a 36-10-10 triple-double and L.A.’s F LeBron James scored a game-high 39 points.

Also see: Bet Slippin’ Podcast: NBA January 25 breakdown

Lakers at Nets odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 3 p.m. ET.

Money line: Lakers -150 (bet $145 to win $100) | Nets +122 (bet $100 to win $122)
Against the spread (ATS): Lakers -2.5 (-120) | Nets +2.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 225.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

PLAY: Free, daily sports pick’em contests. Play now!

Lakers at Nets key injuries

Lakers

PF Anthony Davis (knee) probable

Nets

SF Kevin Durant (knee) out
SG Kyrie Irving (ineligible to play) out
C Nic Claxton (hamstring) questionable

Lakers at Nets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Lakers 115, Nets 109

Money line

PASS since I like L.A. to win this game outright but the Lakers (-150) is a little out of my price range.

Against the spread

BET the LAKERS -2.5 (-120) for 1 unit because this is a better spot for L.A. and the main reason why the Nets won their first meeting with the Lakers is because Brooklyn guard Patty Mills went ballistic from 3-point range.

Mills scored a season-high 34 points on 64.7% shooting and sunk 8 of 13 from behind the arc and I’m willing to bet that doesn’t happen again.

AD’s return to the lineup should also improve L.A.’s defense on every level. The Lakers should be able to extend their perimeter defense knowing they have one of the league’s elite rim protectors on the floor.

Furthermore, the Nets are an NBA-worst 5-17-1 ATS at home with a minus-7.0 ATS margin while the Lakers are 6-5 ATS as a road underdog. Brooklyn is 6-11 ATS in non-conference games and L.A. is 10-8 ATS in those spots.

Plus both teams have played terrible defense in Jan. and both perform well against teams in the bottom 10 of adjusted defensive rating.

Each is 13-4 straight-up (SU) versus bottom-10 defenses but the Lakers have a positive ATS margin in those games and Brooklyn has a negative ATS margin, according to CleaningTheGlass.com (CTG).

BET the LAKERS -2.5 (-120).

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the UNDER 225.5 (-107) for a quarter-unit mostly as a fade against a majority of the market that’s betting the Over.

The return of AD should benefit L.A.’s defense more so than its offense and it could take AD a few games to find his groove offensively.

AD coming back also means the Lakers now have three ball-stopping isolation players in their starting 5 (LeBron, AD and G Russell Westbrook). We could see a lot of long possessions of iso-ball.

However, I only “LEAN” to the UNDER 225.5 (-108) because Brooklyn is 27th in adjusted defensive rating over the past two weeks and L.A. is 23rd, per CTG.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and, soon, IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Geoff Clark on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Los Angeles Lakers at Miami Heat odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Los Angeles Lakers at Miami Heat odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Los Angeles Lakers (23-23) are in South Beach Sunday for a 6 p.m. ET game against the Miami Heat (29-17) at FTX Arena. Below, we look at the Lakers vs. Heat odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

L.A. rallied back from a first-half deficit to win and cover versus the Orlando Magic 116-105 as a 4.5-point road favorite Friday.

The Lakers are 2-4 straight-up (SU) and against the spread (ATS) with a minus-4.6 adjusted net rating (ranked 23rd) and a minus-8.3 ATS margin (ranked 29th) over the last two weeks, according to CleaningTheGlass.com (CTG).

Miami had its two-game win streak snapped after losing at the Atlanta Hawks 110-108 Friday as a 1.5-point road underdog.

The Heat are 4-2 SU and ATS with a plus-6.6 adjusted net rating (ranked third) and a plus-2.8 ATS margin (ranked seventh) in the last 14 days, per CTG.

A F LeBron James-less Lakers upset the Heat 120-117 in overtime at home in their first meeting this season (Nov. 10) as 5.5-point underdogs.

Lakers at Heat odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 11:35 a.m. ET.

Money line: Lakers +115 (bet $100 to win $115) | Heat -140 (bet $140 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Lakers +2.5 (-112) | Heat -2.5 (-108)
Over/Under (O/U): 215.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

PLAY: Free, daily sports pick’em contests. Play now!

Lakers at Heat key injuries

Lakers

PF Anthony Davis (knee) questionable
SF LeBron James (abdomen) probable

Heat

PG Kyle Lowry (personal) out
SG Tyler Herro (health and safety protocols) out
PF P.J. Tucker (knee) questionable

Lakers at Heat odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Heat 114, Lakers 107

Money line

PASS with a heavy “lean” towards the Heat (-140) because they should win outright and if this number gets to -130 then Miami’s money line becomes the preferred wager. However, I’m confident enough in the Heat here to lay the points.

Against the spread

BET the HEAT -2.5 (-108) for 1 unit as a fade against the market that’s hammering the Lakers based on the possible return of AD.

Davis played and was very effective in the first Lakers-Heat meeting this season but the reason L.A. won was due to insanely hot and unsustainable 3-point shooting.

Miami actually won three of the “four factors” but the Lakers sunk 47.4% of their 3s while the Heat made just 27.0% of their 3s.

Westbrook and L.A. guards Avery Bradley, Malik Monk and Wayne Ellington combined to hit 16 of 28 shots from 3-point land. Those 3-point performances should flip in this game since role players shoot better at home.

Furthermore, Miami allows the fewest paint points per game (PPG) and will pack the paint to force Lakers’ Russell Westbrook and LeBron into contested outside jumpers.

The Heat also have two strength-on-weakness edges over the Lakers with ball security and rebounding. L.A. is 22nd in both offensive turnover rate and defensive rebounding rate. Miami is third in defensive turnover rate and fifth in offensive rebounding rate.

This is a much better spot for the Heat who are 14-6 ATS versus teams above-.500 (6-2 ATS at home) and an NBA’s best 12-4 ATS following a SU loss.

BET the HEAT -2.5 (-108).

Over/Under

Slight “LEAN” to the OVER 215.5 (-108) for a small wager, if at all, because I much prefer the Miami side more than the total.

However, these teams have a combined 26-9 O/U record in non-conference games with a plus-6.7 ATS margin and both teams have easy ways to score points on each other.

L.A. plays at one of the fastest paces in the NBA and gets out in transition at a high frequency while Miami has a below-average defensive efficiency versus transition offense.

On the other hand, the Heat excel at getting to the charity stripe, especially Miami All-Star wing Jimmy Butler, and the Lakers are 22nd in defensive FT/FGA rate. Miami had 19 more free-throw attempts in the first Lakers-Heat meeting this season.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and, soon, IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Geoff Clark on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]