Chicago Bulls (21-23) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (22-22)
As the NBA season progresses, the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers find themselves locked in a pivotal matchup on Thursday. With the Bulls standing at 21-23 and the Lakers slightly ahead at 22-22, this game is crucial for both teams as they strive to improve their standings. This late-night showdown is not just a treat for basketball fans but also a significant event for NBA betting picks enthusiasts. SportsNet LA will broadcast the game, adding to the excitement with its top-notch coverage.
The Chicago Bulls have shown mixed performances lately. On offense, they average 110.6 points per game with an effective field goal percentage of 46.1%; particularly strong is their 3-point shooting at 35.9% with 11.8 average 3-point field goals per game at an impressive success rate of 35.9% per game. But their inconsistency can be seen through betting trends: in their last five games against the spread they went 2-3 while on road games they have only an 8-11 mark against spread betting odds.
Los Angeles Lakers have been more consistent, scoring 114.8 points per game on average with an outstanding 48.9% field goal percentage and boasting 34.8 defensive rebounds per game led by Anthony Davis – while their betting trends show them to be relatively steady at 3-2 both overall and against the spread. Their slightly better home record against the spread could give them an edge in this matchup.
Chicago Bulls vs. Los Angeles Lakers Game Info
When: | Thursday, January 25, 2024 at 10:30 PM ET |
Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
TV: | SportsNet LA |
Stream: | NBA League Pass |
DeMar DeRozan (SF) vs. Anthony Davis (PF)
DeMar DeRozan has been the Bulls’ lead scorer this season, averaging 21.9 points per game across 42 games played and started. He’s also contributing in other areas with 4 rebounds and 5.3 assists per contest. His strengths lie in his midrange scoring prowess and playmaking ability, with a solid 3.7 assist-to-turnover ratio. However, three-point shooting remains an area of relative weakness for DeRozan at just 35.9% this campaign.
Meanwhile, Anthony Davis continues to dominate in the frontcourt for the Lakers. In 42 starts this year, he’s putting up 24.9 points and 12.2 rebounds every night. Davis is also blocking 2.4 shots per game and providing help in passing lanes with 1.2 steals a matchup. His length and athleticism make him a constant double-double threat. Davis does need to cut back on his turnovers, which sit at 2.2 per contest. When engaged fully, he possesses game-changing impact on both ends.
This clash of versatile forwards could dictate the game’s final result. If Davis commands the paint, it may limit driving lanes for slashing wings like DeRozan. But if DeRozan is knocking down midrange jumpers and setting up teammates, LA will struggle to keep pace. Supporting casts around these stars will be crucial.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds and point spread for this game are yet to be determined. However, considering the recent trends and performances, it might be a closely contested game with a narrow point spread. Bettors should keep an eye on the updates as the game day approaches.
Chicago Bulls Betting Trends
The Bulls have posted a solid 3-2 straight up record over their last 5 games, but have struggled against the spread with a 2-3 ATS mark over that same sample. For the full season, Chicago has been mediocre versus betting odds on the road with an 8-11 record ATS away from home. The over has been a smart play when betting Bulls games recently, going over the total in 3 of their last 5 matchups. For the year, 11 of Chicago’s 24 away contests have exceeded the posted total.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
The Lakers mirror the Bulls over the last couple weeks with a 3-2 SU and 3-2 ATS record across their previous 5 outings. In home games this season, Los Angeles has been disappointing versus betting lines with just an 8-12 ATS record at Crypto.com Arena. But like Chicago, scoring has come easily for the Lakers of late, with 3 of their last 5 games surpassing the betting total. For the season, 9 of Los Angeles’s 25 home tilts have seen the score eclipse the number set by oddsmake
Chicago Bulls vs. Los Angeles Lakers 1/25/24 Betting Picks
Considering the stats and trends, this game appears to be a tight contest. The key will be the performance of the star players and how well each team executes their game plan. While the Lakers seem to have a slight edge, especially at home, the Bulls’ ability to surprise should not be underestimated.
In terms of betting, the safer pick seems to be the Lakers, especially given their consistent scoring and home advantage. Prop bets involving player performances, especially on Davis and DeRozan, could be interesting. For the over/under, given both teams’ tendency to be involved in high-scoring games, betting on the over might be wise. Lastly, for those looking for more betting options, top online casinos often offer a variety of NBA-related betting markets.