LA Clippers (21-12) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (17-18)
LA Clippers and Los Angeles Lakers will square off in an anticipated NBA showdown this Sunday at Crypto.com Arena. As LA Clippers currently hold a better win-loss record than their city rivals, this game promises to be an important one in NBA history and both fans and bettors eagerly anticipate this matchup making it hot topic among best online betting sites.
The LA Clippers have displayed remarkable form so far this season, evidenced by their scoring average of 117.2 points per game – an indication of both their offensive prowess and shooting efficiency with 49% field goal percentage and 38.5% three-point success rate. On defense they average 8.1 steals and 5.2 blocks per game while their turnover ratio (12.6 turnovers per game) needs improvement.
Los Angeles Lakers possess an excellent chance of challenging the Clippers for top spot, scoring an average of 113.7 points per game with a 48.3% field goal percentage and boasting an outstanding rebounding margin (43 boards averaged per game vs 43.7 for their rival). Their defensive stats also stand out with 7.6 steals and 5.6 blocks per game respectively; though their main weakness will likely lie with their high turnover rate (13.6).
LA Clippers vs. Los Angeles Lakers Game Info
| When: | Sunday, January 7, 2024 at 9:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | SportsNet LA |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Kawhi Leonard (SF) vs. Anthony Davis (PF)
Kawhi Leonard continues his superb return campaign after missing all of last season rehabbing his ACL injury. The two-time Finals MVP excels on both ends, providing 24.6 points, 6 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game. His mid-range mastery and perimeter defense make him a nightmare matchup. However, Leonard is still on a minutes restriction, which could limit his availability down the stretch.
Anthony Davis is finally healthy and performing like the MVP candidate Lakers fans expected when he first arrived. Davis averages 25.2 points, 12.5 rebounds and 2.7 blocks per game. When engaged, he can dominate the game on both ends thanks to his versatility at his size. But Davis has battled consistency issues throughout his Lakers tenure, and which version shows up could decide this marquee matchup.
This battle of elite two-way forwards will likely determine the outcome on Sunday night. If Leonard plays crunchtime minutes, his ability to create efficient offense halfcourt offense and make life difficult for Davis defensively gives the Clippers an edge. But if Davis brings his A-game against a smaller Clippers frontcourt, he could will the Lakers to a much-needed win.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be determined. However, considering the Clippers’ better overall record and recent form, they might enter the game as slight favorites. The total odds will likely reflect the high-scoring nature of both teams.
LA Clippers Betting Trends
The Clippers have been strong in recent games, winning 4 out of their last 5. This trend indicates their current good form, which could be a crucial factor in the upcoming game. Their performance against the spread, especially in road games, shows a mixed record, which bettors should consider. Additionally, the total has gone OVER in several of their games, suggesting a tendency towards high-scoring matches.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
The Lakers have dominated this head-to-head series, winning 21 of their previous 32 meetings straight up. And with James likely returning from injury to bolster their lineup, they could be catching the Clippers at the right time. Los Angeles also plays well as road underdogs, covering 8 of their previous 15 games with those betting odds.
LA Clippers vs. Los Angeles Lakers 1/7/24 Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and betting trends, the Clippers seem to have an edge in this matchup. Their recent form and offensive efficiency give them a slight advantage over the Lakers. However, the Lakers’ rebounding ability and individual talent cannot be underestimated, making this game a potentially close contest.
In terms of betting, the Clippers might be the safer pick, especially considering their recent form and head-to-head record. Prop bets on individual performances, especially on players like Kawhi Leonard and Anthony Davis, could be interesting. The over/under could be a tricky bet, given both teams’ tendency for high-scoring games. NBA free picks today might lean towards the Clippers, but an upset from the Lakers cannot be ruled out.
