Los Angeles Lakers (3-4) vs. Houston Rockets (3-3)
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Houston Rockets 11/08/23 – As the NBA season begins to pick up steam, fans are turning their attention to upcoming matchups, with NBA game previews becoming increasingly scrutinized for those keen to understand how teams are shaping up against each other. On Wednesday, the Los Angeles Lakers, with a just below .500 record of 3-4, will take on the Houston Rockets, who are holding steady at 3-3. This Western Conference showdown is set to unfold at the Toyota Center, as both teams look to advance their standing early in the season.
The Lakers are putting up an average of 111.1 points per game, indicative of their offensive capabilities, especially with LeBron James leading the charge. However, a field goal percentage of 47.7 suggests that while they’re not the most efficient scoring team, they have the ability to put the ball in the basket with consistency. Where the Lakers may need to step up is beyond the arc, with a three-point field goal percentage lingering at 29.8%. Defensively, they average 7 blocks per game, showing their capacity to disrupt shots, but a turnover average of 14.7 is a concern, as it could give the Rockets extra possessions.
On the flip side, the Rockets are trailing slightly behind the Lakers with 110 points per game. However, their three-point game is strong, with a solid 38.4% shooting from downtown, which could spell trouble for LA’s defense. The Rockets also seem to handle the ball better than the Lakers, with fewer turnovers per game at 13.5. Defensively, they are less imposing in terms of shot-blocking, averaging only 3 blocks per game, but this young team’s hustle could offset their lack of rim protection.
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Houston Rockets 11/08/23 Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Toyota Center |
| TV: | Space City Home Network |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
LeBron James (SF) vs. Jalen Green (SG)
LeBron James, the formidable small forward for the Lakers, continues to defy time, averaging 25.3 points per game alongside 8.4 rebounds and 5.9 assists. His presence on the court is as much about his scoring as it is his leadership and playmaking. However, a turnover average of 4.3 shows that even the greats can be prone to mistakes, and his 1.4 assist to turnover ratio this season will be something the Rockets aim to exploit.
Jalen Green for the Rockets, while not yet at the level of James, is showing promising signs, averaging 18.2 points per game. His energy and ability to stretch the floor with his shooting could be pivotal against a Lakers team that has struggled on the road. However, an assist to turnover ratio of 0.9 suggests that decision-making is an area for improvement for this young guard.
When James and Green take the court, it will be a classic battle of experience versus youth. James’ ability to command the floor and his all-around performance will be key, while Green’s scoring and dynamic play will be essential for the Rockets. The outcome could very well hinge on how these two key players perform.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: Los Angeles Lakers -140, Total Odds: 218.5
The Lakers are favored in the moneyline, despite their road struggles and poor cover record this season, while the point spread suggests a close game. The total at 218.5 reflects the offensive capabilities of both teams but also factors in their recent trends of unders.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
The Lakers’ trends aren’t particularly encouraging for bettors, especially with a 2-7 record against the spread (ATS) in their last 9 games. This, combined with the total going UNDER in 6 of their last 8 games, may raise eyebrows for those looking at the OVER/UNDER. Furthermore, the Lakers’ abysmal 0-8 straight up (SU) record on the road is a worrying sign for Lakers backers.
Houston Rockets Betting Trends
The Rockets have been performing well against the spread at home, with a 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games. Despite this, their performance ATS when playing at home against the Lakers hasn’t been as strong, with a 2-6 record in their last 8 encounters. The total going OVER in 5 of Houston’s last 6 games against LA could be a trend for bettors to consider.
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Houston Rockets 11/08/23 Betting Picks
Taking into account the Lakers’ poor road record but also their historical dominance over the Rockets, this game is set to be an intriguing one. The key matchup between James and Green will be critical, but the supporting cast will also play a significant role in the outcome. With both teams showing potential for high scoring but also a penchant for going under, the total is a tricky bet.
Expert sports picks often come down to the fine margins, and the Lakers might just have the edge with their experience, despite their recent form. However, the Rockets’ home advantage and three-point shooting cannot be dismissed lightly.
Free Pick and Prediction: Los Angeles Lakers 112, Houston Rockets 108