Los Angeles Lakers (14-9) vs. San Antonio Spurs (3-18)
The Los Angeles Lakers will face off against the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night in a Western Conference matchup. The Lakers have won four of their last five games to boast a 14-9 record, while the Spurs have lost five straight and sit near the bottom of the West at 3-18. In this NBA daily picks preview, we’ll analyze the matchup, betting odds and trends, and offer a free prediction on the outcome.
Los Angeles Lakers have shown impressive performances this season, averaging 113.1 points per game with a 48.4 field goal percentage and 10 two three-point field goals per game at 34.3% success rate to prove their offensive prowess. Defensively they have also been impressive, boasting 44.8 rebounds per game and 7.7 steals at 7.7 steals; their turnover rate may pose some concern however; yet overall their efficiency on both ends of the court has played an essential role in their current position.
Contrarily, San Antonio Spurs have had an inconsistent season so far. Although their average of 110.7 points per game is respectable, their win-loss record speaks volumes of their struggle converting scoring opportunities to victories. With only 45.7 field goal percentage and 37 three-point attempts per game (though with slightly better success rate of 34.7% than Lakers), and only 42.7 rebounds and 6 blocks per game on defense overall; their performance can still improve dramatically to eliminate opponents scoring opportunities more effectively.
Los Angeles Lakers vs. San Antonio Spurs Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Frost Bank Center |
| TV: | NBAt |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
LeBron James (SF) vs. Victor Wembanyama (C)
LeBron James continues to dominate the league in his late 30s. The King is averaging 25 points, 7.5 rebounds and 6.6 assists while playing over 33 minutes a night. His combination of scoring, playmaking and leadership has the Lakers contending once again. However, James can be vulnerable on defense at times against more athletic bigs.
As the #1 overall draft pick, 19-year-old Victor Wembanyama entered the NBA with massive expectations. So far, he has lived up to the hype by posting 19 points, 10.2 rebounds and an eye-popping 2.7 blocks per contest. His rare combination of size, skills and mobility make him a unicorn prototype. While he can dominate with his interior scoring and defense, perimeter shooting and ball handling are works in progress.
This marquee matchup will pit an aging legend against a player some consider a generational talent in the making. James brings the experience, skill and basketball IQ. Wembanyama boasts athletic gifts and talent rarely seen before. Whoever gets the upper hand in this battle could steer their team to victory.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be determined, but they will undoubtedly reflect the Lakers’ stronger season performance. Bettors should keep an eye on the point spread and moneyline as they are announced.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
The Lakers have been a profitable bet lately, covering the spread in four of their last five games. This signals they are outperforming expectations on a regular basis. Additionally, unders have hit in four of the Lakers’ previous five contests, implying their games have tended to be lower-scoring defensive battles. However, bettors should show caution when wagering on Los Angeles away from home, as they have posted a 5-6 against the spread record on the road this season.
San Antonio Spurs Betting Trends
The Spurs have had mixed results against the spread recently, covering in just two of their past five games. However, totals have gone over the projection in three of those last five Spurs’ matchups. This showcases their defensive deficiencies that have allowed opponents to light up the scoreboard. For bettors looking to back San Antonio, their 4-6 home record versus the spread this year suggests they tend to play close games in front of their fans.
Los Angeles Lakers vs. San Antonio Spurs 12/13/23 Betting Picks
Considering the current form and statistical analysis, the Los Angeles Lakers seem to be the favorable pick in this matchup. Their overall performance and star player LeBron James’ impact make them a strong contender. However, bettors should not underestimate the Spurs, especially with Victor Wembanyama’s potential to disrupt the Lakers’ game plan.
For those exploring options on Canadian betting websites, apart from the standard win-loss bets, prop bets on player performances, such as points scored by LeBron James or blocks by Wembanyama, could offer interesting alternatives. The over/under bet might also be intriguing, given the contrasting trends of both teams.
