New Orleans Pelicans vs. Los Angeles Lakers – The New Orleans Pelicans (29-21) take on the Los Angeles Lakers (27-25) on Friday night in a Western Conference showdown. This matchup features two teams hovering around .500 looking to solidify their spots in the playoff race. Key players like Brandon Ingram and LeBron James will look to lead their squads to a pivotal victory. With the playoff push intensifying, this should be a competitive game to evaluate for Canadian best sports betting.
New Orleans Pelicans vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Date & Time: Friday, February 9, 2024, at 10:30 PM ET
Location: Crypto.com Arena
TV: NBAt
New Orleans Pelicans vs. Los Angeles Lakers Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Pelicans | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| Lakers | TBD | TBD | TBD |
New Orleans Pelicans Analysis
The Pelicans enter this matchup with one of the better scoring offenses in the NBA, averaging nearly 117 points per game (116.9) on 48.7% shooting. They excel at generating open looks, attempting over 88 shots and over 32 three pointers per contest. With scorers like Brandon Ingram averaging 21.8 points while shooting efficiently, New Orleans can quickly put points on the board.
However, defense remains an area of concern, as opponents score over 114 points per game against the Pelicans. They allow over 43 made field goals and struggle containing perimeter oriented teams, allowing 12 made threes per game. Interior defense presents issues as well, as they allow over 11 offensive rebounds and 44 total rebounds to opponents per game.
A key player to watch is Brandon Ingram, who is having an All-Star level season. In 46 starts, Ingram averages 33 minutes, 21.8 points, 5 rebounds and 5.7 assists per contest. His versatile scoring and playmaking create mismatches that will challenge the Lakers defense. For New Orleans to win, they’ll need Ingram to serve as an efficient primary creator.
Los Angeles Lakers Analysis
The Lakers enter this game with one of the top scoring offenses in the NBA, averaging 116.2 points per game on 49.2% shooting from the field. They excel in half court sets and generate efficient looks, taking over 87 shots per game. Veterans like LeBron James and Anthony Davis fuel an offense that can still fill it up on any given night.
However, inconsistencies remain on the defensive end, where opponents are scoring nearly 117 points per contest against Los Angeles. They allow over 43 made field goals and 11 made threes per game. Interior defense is a strength though, as the Lakers limit second chance points, allowing just 8 offensive rebounds per game.
A player to highlight is LeBron James, who continues to play at an MVP caliber level in his 20th season. In his 46 starts this year, James is playing nearly 35 minutes a night while averaging 24.9 points, 7.3 rebounds and 7.6 assists per game on efficient 52/36/75 shooting splits. His scoring and playmaking are central to this Lakers offense. For Los Angeles to win, they’ll need vintage James to take over for stretches.
New Orleans Pelicans vs. Los Angeles Lakers Against the Spread
New Orleans has covered the spread in 3 of their previous 5 contests, showcasing their ability to comfortably outpace market expectations. Further improving their case, the Pelicans boast an impressive 13-11 against the spread record away from home. Clearly, this team embraces and thrives in the underdog role when on the road.
Los Angeles has underwhelmed bettors lately, covering just 2 of their past 5 games. A deeper look at team trends reveals further concerns – the Lakers sit at a subpar 11-16 against the spread mark at Crypto.com Arena.
New Orleans Pelicans vs. Los Angeles Lakers Free Pick
Based on trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Los Angeles Lakers (LeBron James’ home advantage and leadership are two critical components.)
Spread: New Orleans Pelicans (Due to the Lakers’ inconsistency against the spread, particularly at home, Pelicans hold an edge.)
Total: Over (Both teams possess powerful offenses and often see games go over.)
Predicted Score: Los Angeles Lakers 118, New Orleans Pelicans 115
Due to both teams’ offensive prowess and recent performances, a safe bet would likely be an Over pick on total points. Both squads have shown they can score heavily – something expected in high stakes games such as this. Those interested in NBA free betting picks will find that picking Over offers a potentially rewarding opportunity here given both Pelicans and Lakers’ scoring trends.
