Houston Rockets (8-8) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (11-9)
On December 2, 2023, the NBA season is heating up as the Houston Rockets face the Los Angeles Lakers in an exciting match-up at 10:30 PM ET at Crypto.com Arena. Both teams currently stand at 8-8 and 11-9 respectively and this game could prove key in improving their standings. For both fans and bettors alike, this match-up offers many NBA free pick opportunities from both sides.
The Houston Rockets have had an uneven performance this season. Averaging 110.9 points per game on average, their offense relies heavily on an aggressive field goal attempt rate, taking an average of 87.2 shots per game; their 47.4% field goal efficiency indicates a decent conversion rate; they make 12.4 three-pointers per game but their 3-point field goal percentage at 35.9% leaves room for improvement; rebounding has been strong with 43.3 boards per game being grabbed on average; coupled with 26.4 assists per game reflecting teamwork on offense.
Los Angeles Lakers have been more consistent, as evidenced by their 11-9 record. They slightly outscored Houston Rockets in scoring by averaging 112.8 points per game and were more efficient shooters, boasting a field goal percentage of 48.9% while also having more 3-point attempts and conversions (33.8% success rate) than Rockets did (66). Furthermore, Los Angeles Lakers excel in free throw attempts and conversions which highlights their ability to draw fouls and capitalize upon them, along with more steals and blocks per game which reflects greater defensive presence from Los Angeles Lakers than seen from Houston Rockets indicating more robust defensive presence from them despite less frequent 3-point shooting attempts by their opponent Rockets 66 teammate.
Houston Rockets vs. Los Angeles Lakers Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 2, 2023 at 10:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Alperen Sengun C vs. LeBron James SF
Alperen Sengun of the Houston Rockets has had an outstanding season. Averaging 21 points, 8.9 boards and 5.6 assists per game he provides all three elements needed for basketball success; however his 2.7 mistakes per game give Los Angeles Lakers’ defense ample opportunity to exploit him.
LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers has become one of the greatest small forwards in NBA history, averaging 24.8 points, 7/8 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game. James’ offensive abilities combined with his defensive prowess (1.4% steals/0.7 block per game) makes him an exceptional offensive and defensive force; his 3.6 mistakes per game may pose issues against an aggressive Rockets defence, however.
Sengun and James will compete against one another in this intense match-up. Sengun’s versatility and experience may prove crucial against James’ interior presence and rebounding skills; both players play pivotal roles for their respective teams.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: Los Angeles Lakers -233, Total Odds: 221.5
Current betting odds favor the Lakers with a moneyline of -233, suggesting a greater chance of their victory. Total odds at 221.5 indicate an anticipated high-scoring game which matches up with both teams’ offensive statistics.
Houston Rockets Betting Trends
The Rockets have shown excellent ATS results, going 10-1-2 over their past 13 games, showing they can perform above betting expectations. Yet their 2-5 straight-up (SU) record in recent seven games raises concerns regarding their ability to win outright; particularly during away matches.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
The Lakers have demonstrated impressive strength recently, boasting an 8-4 record against Southwest Division opponents during their last 12 games and posting an undefeated 7-0 home record against Houston over that time period. Their ATS record has also been somewhat consistent at 4-2-4 over that span.
Houston Rockets vs. Los Angeles Lakers 12/2/23 Betting Picks
Looking at statistical analysis and betting trends, this game appears to be closely contested. While the Lakers appear to have an edge due to their superior overall performance and dominance at home, their impressive ATS record cannot be ignored; making the Rockets potential underdogs in covering the spread.
Betting Picks for this game are difficult, with Lakers favoritism likely outweighing any chances for Rockets of covering a +5 spread. As both teams boast offensive firepower, wagers on over-221.5 could prove profitable given both teams’ scoring capabilities. When making in-game bets using top live betting websites it’s essential to monitor player performances and momentum changes for best odds of success.
Bettors should carefully consider this predicted scoreline when making their picks for this anticipated NBA matchup. It highlights both teams’ respective offensive strength and home court advantage while acknowledging both clubs’ capability of competing evenly on court. Bettors should use this insight when making selections in this anticipated showdown.
Free Pick and Prediction: Los Angeles Lakers 115, Houston Rockets 110
