Houston Rockets vs. Los Angeles Lakers – On Saturday, December 2, 2023, fans and bettors alike are in for an exhilarating matchup between the Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers that promises to be unforgettable. Both teams currently boast 8-8 records with Alperen Sengun for the Rockets and LeBron James of Los Angeles hoping to ascend in this battle of titans. Finding winning NBA picks is key – particularly when faced with such close contest.
Houston Rockets vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Date & Time: Saturday, December 2, 2023, at 10:30 PM ET
Location: Crypto.com Arena
TV:
Houston Rockets vs. Los Angeles Lakers Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Rockets | +195 | +5 (-115) | 221.5 over -110 |
| Lakers | -233 | -5 (-105) | 221.5 under -110 |
Houston Rockets Analysis
Offensively, the Houston Rockets have displayed a balanced approach, averaging 110.9 points per game on offense. Their field goal percentage stands at 47.4% while their 3-point accuracy rate of 35.9% shows they can score both inside and out from 3-point distance. 12.4 three-pointers made per game could prove decisive against Los Angeles Lakers.
Defensively, the Rockets could use some work. While they average 6.3 steals and 4.2 blocks per game, their overall defensive coordination often falters, leaving themselves open to being exploited by teams like Los Angeles. This issue could prove especially lucrative given their struggles away from home games.
Alperen Sengun has been one of the standout performers this season for the Rockets center, averaging 21 points and 8.9 rebounds per game while being present both offensively and defensively on both ends of the court. His ability to influence games could prove critical against Lakers opponent Kobe Bryant – especially within the paint.
Los Angeles Lakers Analysis
The Lakers have been impressive on offense, scoring an average of 112.8 points per game with an impressive field goal percentage of 48.9%; slightly better than Rockets. Furthermore, they excel at drawing fouls and reaching free-throw line quickly with 19.7 average free throws made per game.
Defense has been one of the Lakers’ strong suits this season, racking up 7.4 steals and 6 blocks per game on average. LeBron James leads their defensive rebounding efforts with ease; however, they should remain wary of Houston’s three-point shooting which can disrupt any contest.
LeBron James remains the cornerstone of the Lakers. Averaging 24.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game for an all-around performance, his all-around contribution remains a crucial one in helping guide them against an upstart Rockets squad.
Houston Rockets vs. Los Angeles Lakers Against the Spread
The Rockets boast an impressive 101-2 record against the spread (ATS), showing their ability to exceed betting expectations. Unfortunately, however, their record of two victories out of seven raises questions regarding consistency.
The Lakers have shown themselves to be powerful at home as of late, going unbeaten when playing against Houston at Crypto.com Arena over their last seven games (SU and ATS records are both unblemished). Unfortunately for them though, their recent performance against teams from the Southwest Division has not been consistent, standing at 2-4 over six contests played thus far.
Houston Rockets vs. Los Angeles Lakers Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Los Angeles Lakers (-233). The Lakers’ strong home record and LeBron James’ leadership give them an edge over the Rockets.
Spread: Houston Rockets +5 (-115). Despite the Lakers’ advantage, the Rockets’ strong ATS record suggests they can keep the game closer than the 5-point spread.
Total: Under 221.5 (-110). Both teams have trends favoring the under, and in a potentially tight defensive game, the total might fall short.
Predicted Score: Los Angeles Lakers 108, Houston Rockets 104
Overall, this matchup between Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers promises to be an epic one. The Lakers appear to be favorites against the Rockets with their superior home record and star player LeBron James at their disposal, yet don’t overlook Alperen Sengun and their impressive ATS performance – which make up much of Alperen Sengun’s rising star status. While the moneyline favors the Lakers, the spread indicates a tighter contest, making the Rockets an appealing value pick.
Furthermore, betting under on total points could provide an ideal strategy in an anticipated matchup with defensive plays overshadowing offensive prowess. Bettors and basketball fans alike will find this game to be an exhilarating spectacle with plenty of betting opportunities aplenty. Staying informed with odds from Canadian best sportsbooks can give bettors an edge in making smart wagers in what promises to be an exciting contest.
