Portland Trail Blazers vs. Los Angeles Lakers – As the NBA season heats up, the upcoming clash between the Portland Trail Blazers and the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday is grabbing the attention of fans and bettors alike. With the Trail Blazers struggling at an 11-29 record and the Lakers balancing at 21-21, this game is a crucial pivot for both teams. For those making basketball picks today, this match offers an intriguing mix of challenge and opportunity.
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Date & Time: Sunday, January 21, 2024, at 10:00 PM ET
Location: Crypto.com Arena
TV: SportsNet LA
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Los Angeles Lakers Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Trail Blazers | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| Lakers | TBD | TBD | TBD |
Portland Trail Blazers Analysis
The Trail Blazers come into this game with one of the NBA’s least efficient offenses, averaging just 107.2 points per game on 43.2% shooting from the field. They rely heavily on the 3-point shot, attempting nearly 35 long range attempts per contest while hitting at a 35.4% clip. This overreliance on low percentage looks has limited their overall ceiling. Rebounding has been an issue as they rank towards the bottom in offensive boards and allow 41.4 total rebounds to their opponents per game. Too often, Portland fails to finish possessions with second chance opportunities.
Defensively, the Trail Blazers have struggled immensely, ranking 29th in the league in points allowed at 117.3 per game. Opponents have their way both inside and out, shooting efficient clips from 2-point and 3-point range all season long against Portland. Interior defense is a major weakness without a true rim-protector. On the perimeter, Trail Blazer defenders lack the quickness to keep up with dynamic wings and guards. The result is the 4th highest field goal percentage allowed to enemies.
For Portland to compete in this contest, Anfernee Simons will need to shoulder the load offensively. He leads the team with 22.9 points per game on 45.5% shooting. His ability to create space for jumpers and attack closeouts is a strong fit for their offensive style. But getting efficient, balanced contributions from his supporting cast is essential if the Trail Blazers want to keep pace on the scoreboard.
Los Angeles Lakers Analysis
The Lakers sport one of the league’s top 10 offenses, using impressive efficiency to average 114.4 points per matchup. They make over 42 field goals per game on 48.8% shooting, moving the ball well and creating high percentage looks. Los Angeles also boasts the size and skill to manufacture mismatches all over the court. Anthony Davis draw attention in the paint, opening up space for role player.
Defensively the Lakers allow 112.5 points against per contest, right around league average. They protect the rim admirably with Anthony Davis patrolling the paint and altering shots. Length on the wings also enables Los Angeles to contest 3-point shooters and generate transition chances. Rebounding has been one of their main strengths as they consistently limit additional possessions for the opposition.
For the Lakers to secure a comfortable win, the always dangerous Anthony Davis must continue his MVP level form. He leads the team in scoring and rebounding while anchoring defensive efforts. Equally valuable is his ability to create efficient shots for others by commanding double teams down low. Davis will look to impose his will early and often against an undermatched Portland frontcourt.
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Los Angeles Lakers Against the Spread
Portland The Trail Blazers are just 2-3 against the spread in their last 5 contests but 10-12 ATS on the road this season. Totals have gone OVER in 1 of their previous 5 matchups.
The Los Angeles Lakers are 2-3 ATS in their last 5 games while sporting an 8-12 road ATS record on the campaign. 2 of their last 5 games have gone OVER the posted total.
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Los Angeles Lakers Free Pick
Based on trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers’ more balanced and potent offense, combined with their home-court advantage, makes them the safer bet.
Spread: Lakers to cover the spread. Given Portland’s struggles, especially defensively, the Lakers should be able to capitalize and cover.
Total: Under. These teams have trended UNDER recently and both focus on defense. Expect a gritty, lower scoring affair.
Predicted Score: Los Angeles Lakers 110, Portland Trail Blazers 98
In conclusion, while the Lakers seem to be the safer bet for the moneyline, the spread could offer more value considering their potential to exploit Portland’s defensive weaknesses. For bettors looking for reliable options on Canadian top betting websites, the Lakers covering the spread appears to be a promising pick.
