Toronto Raptors (14-21) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (17-19)
Toronto Raptors vs. Los Angeles Lakers 1/9/24 – The NBA season continues to provide fans with thrilling matchesups, none more so than between Toronto Raptors and Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday at Crypto.com Arena. Sports handicappers and fans alike are abuzz with excitement ahead of this showdown between two struggling teams with 14-21 records against 17-19 records in this gripping encounter between two squads looking to better their standings.
The Raptors have shown impressive team stats despite their poor record, averaging 114.5 points per game at 47.7% field goal percentage with 44.5 rebounding average per game and 29.3 assists per game – but their turnovers (12.9 per game) and fouls (18.6 per game) could prove costly against an opponent like the Lakers.
Conversely, the Lakers boast slightly lower average points per game (113.7) and field goal percentage (48.3%). Yet they excel at free throw percentage (77.3%) and blocks per game (5.6), which indicate strong defensive play. Similar to Raptors, their weakness lies in turnovers (13.6 per game) and fouls (16.9 per game), making an intriguing matchup where both teams attempt to capitalize on each other’s mistakes.
Toronto Raptors vs. Los Angeles Lakers Game Info
| When: | Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at 10:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | SportsNet LA |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Pascal Siakam (PF) vs. Anthony Davis (PF)
Pascal Siakam has enjoyed a truly All-Star season for the Raptors, averaging 22.3 points, 6.5 rebounds and five assists per game while shooting 50% from the field. Siakam has expanded his game this year by showing improved playmaking ability while remaining an effective scorer from all areas of the floor; making him Toronto’s most essential player.
Anthony Davis continues to put up impressive numbers for the Lakers when healthy. This season he’s averaged 25.3 points and 12.3 rebounds while shooting high percentages from both field and free throw line. Davis remains one of the game’s premier big men thanks to his size, athleticism and ever-evolving skillset; however, staying healthy remains an ongoing concern for him.
This matchup pits two versatile and talented big men against one another. Davis holds a significant size advantage that could overpower Siakam in the paint and on the boards; however, Siakam’s superior quickness and ball handling ability give him an edge outside. This individual matchup could prove pivotal in deciding the outcome.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
As betting odds have yet to be set, it can be challenging to predict who the favorite will be; however, given each team’s performances and recent trends, it should be an exciting contest.
Toronto Raptors Betting Trends
The Raptors have had an uneven performance of late. While their record in their last five games is inconsistent at best, three out of those five saw them beat the spread – which may indicate outperforming expectations. They could use improvement in road games against the spread (9-11), as most recent totals went OVER the expected number.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
The Lakers have struggled recently, going 1-4 in their last five games and failing to cover the spread in three of those five contests (2-3). On the road however, their record (8-11). Furthermore, most games feature total points which suggests their defense may be lacking while their offense continues its strong performance.
Toronto Raptors vs. Los Angeles Lakers 1/9/24 Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and betting trends, this game presents a unique challenge for bettors. Both teams have shown inconsistencies, but they also have the potential to surprise. The key will be to watch for any last-minute lineup changes or injury updates, which could significantly impact the game’s dynamics.
In terms of picks, it might be wise to focus on the point total, considering both teams have a trend of going OVER. As for the winner, it’s a tough call, but the Lakers might have a slight edge due to their home-court advantage and slightly better defensive stats. The top free NBA prediction for this game would be a close win for the Lakers in a high-scoring affair.
Free Pick and Prediction: Los Angeles Lakers 120, Toronto Raptors 115.