Portland Trail Blazers (11-29) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (21-21)
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Los Angeles Lakers 1/21/24 – On Sunday, Portland Trail Blazers and Los Angeles Lakers are set for an electrifying NBA battle at Crypto.com Arena. Both teams face-off for what should be an explosive contest that is sure to dominate NBA predictions this week. All eyes will be watching these teams perform under the bright lights of national broadcast on SportsNet LA.
Analyzing the Portland Trail Blazers’ season, their performance has been an unpredictable mix of struggles and occasional glimpses of potential. Averaging 107.2 points per game with a field goal percentage of 43.2%, they have proven they can score but lack consistency – their 3-point shooting at 35.4% being one bright spot; defensive play however has not been impressive as evidenced by their record; their rebounding average of 41.4 per game could prove crucial, especially given that offensive rebounds average 12.3 per game!
Los Angeles Lakers have enjoyed a more balanced season. Scoring an average of 114.4 points per game with a 48.8% field goal percentage, they boast a powerful offense. Their strength lies in rebounding (43.1 per game) and assists (27.8 per game), showing they possess more balanced team efforts. Defensively, however, Los Angeles Lakers may prove decisive; their free throw conversion rates (77.1%) as well as ability to control pace through offensive strategies are key advantages over Portland Blazers in this matchup.
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Los Angeles Lakers 1/21/24 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, January 21, 2024, at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | SportsNet LA |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Anfernee Simons (SG) vs. Anthony Davis (PF)
Anfernee Simons has taken over primary playmaking duties in Lillard’s absence. He’s averaging 22.9 PPG and 4.9 APG but has struggled with efficiency during Portland’s losing streak. Simons lacks size on the defensive end at 6’3″ and could have issues matching up with the length and athleticism of Anthony Davis.
Davis is putting up MVP numbers for the Lakers this season, averaging over 25 points, 12 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game. He provides elite rim protection and paint scoring. Davis should be able to exploit his significant size advantage against the smaller Blazers lineup. However, he has dealt with nagging injuries throughout the year. Foul trouble or potential re-aggravation remain risks.
This matchup will be a clash of styles, with the sweet-shooting Simons looking to extend Davis out to the perimeter. If Davis can dominate the paint while staying out of foul trouble, it could be a long night for the Blazers. The Lakers need vintage production from The Brow to snap out of their mediocre stretch.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The current betting odds for this game are yet to be determined, but they will undoubtedly be influenced by the teams’ contrasting performances this season. Bettors and fans will be keenly watching the spread and moneyline as they become available.
Portland Trail Blazers Betting Trends
The Trail Blazers have been in a free fall, covering the spread just twice over their past eight contests. They’ve been atrocious on the road for bettors with a 10-12 ATS record away from Portland and are 2-7 ATS over their previous nine road games. The Blazers also boast a 20-13-2 record towards overs this season, cashing over tickets in nine of their last 13.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
The Lakers have been nearly as bad for bettors lately with a 2-3 ATS record over their previous five games. However, they’ve been slightly better for bettors at home with an 8-12 ATS record at Crypto.com arena. The over has hit in two of Los Angeles’ last five games. Seven of the Lakers’ previous 10 home contests have gone over the total.
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Los Angeles Lakers Betting Picks
Considering the analysis and betting trends, this game appears to be a tight contest. The Lakers, with their more balanced play and home-court advantage, seem to have an edge. However, the unpredictable nature of the Blazers, especially in their scoring ability, cannot be overlooked. For those looking at premium strategy picks, focusing on individual player performances, such as points scored or rebounds, might offer more reliable betting opportunities.
Given the current dynamics, a close game is expected. The Lakers might just edge out a victory, but the Blazers’ ability to surprise should not be underestimated. Betting on a close spread or the total points could be a wise strategy.
Free Pick and Prediction: Los Angeles Lakers 112, Portland Trail Blazers 107.