Los Angeles Lakers (24-23) vs. Boston Celtics (35-11)
As the Los Angeles Lakers prepare to face the Boston Celtics on Thursday, February 1, 2024, the NBA scene is abuzz with anticipation. The Lakers, with a respectable 24-23 record, are set to challenge the Celtics, who boast an impressive 35-11 standing. This showdown at the TD Garden promises to be a pivotal moment in the season, catching the attention of enthusiasts and best sportsbooks alike. The game, scheduled for 7:30 PM ET, will be a high-profile event broadcasted on TNT, drawing in a multitude of basketball fans.
The Lakers have shown both resilience and vulnerability this season. Their average of 116 points per game and 49.1% field goal percentage indicates strong offensive capabilities; yet their 9-13 record against the spread on the road, along with their heavy reliance on three-pointers (11.1 per game with 36.5% success rate), as well as 7.8 steals and 5.5 blocks per game defensive play must all contribute towards keeping pace against an impressive Celtics offense.
On the other side of things, Boston Celtics have been an impressive opponent, averaging 120.3 points per game and boasting an incredible 47.6% field goal percentage and 37.9% from beyond the arc – accounting for 16.2 three-pointers each game! Defensively they have been equally solid, averaging 47.5 rebounds per game but their recent 2-3 record against spread may open them up for Lakers attack.
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Boston Celtics Game Info
| When: | Thursday, February 1, 2024 at 7:30 PM ET |
| Where: | TD Garden |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Anthony Davis (PF) vs. Jayson Tatum (SF)
In 45 games this season, Anthony Davis is averaging 25 points, 12.2 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 2.4 blocks per game. He is a nightly double-double threat who can score from all areas of the court while anchoring the defense with his shot-blocking ability. However, Davis has already missed 17 games this year so health is a concern.
Jayson Tatum has taken his scoring to new heights this season, averaging 26.8 points per game to go along with 8.4 rebounds and 4.3 assists. He has one of the highest usage rates in the league at 36% with the Celtics offense running through him. Tatum has added more playmaking to his game but his bread and butter is still his versatile scoring skill set, with the ability to shoot from three and break down defenses off the dribble.
This matchup features two incredibly gifted scorers at the forward position. Davis holds a significant size advantage which he uses to punish smaller defenders inside. However, his perimeter defense can be exploited at times. Tatum has become nearly unguardable with the ball in his hands and his improved playmaking could give the Lakers trouble. Ultimately, Davis needs to stay healthy and anchor the defense while Tatum will look to carry the load offensively for Boston. This battle of forwards could decide who comes out on top.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds and point spread for this game are currently TBD. However, given the Celtics’ impressive record and home advantage, they might emerge as the favorites in the eyes of many sportsbooks.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
The Lakers have gone 3-2 straight up and against the spread (ATS) in their last 5 games. On the road this season, they own a mediocre 9-13 ATS record. The totals have finished OVER in 5 of the Lakers’ last 5 matchups, and 10 of their previous 26 games on the road. This indicates their games have been high-scoring lately.
Boston Celtics Betting Trends
Over their last 5 contests, the Celtics are 3-2 straight up but have struggled more ATS with a 2-3 record. At home in Boston this year, they boast a solid 10-12 ATS record. Only 1 of the Celtics’ previous 5 games have gone OVER the projected total. However, 11 of their last 22 home games have finished over the posted total. So while Boston has played low-scoring games lately, more of their home matchups tend to be high-scoring affairs.
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Boston Celtics 2/1/24 Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and trends, this game is shaping up to be a closely contested battle. The Lakers’ ability to perform on the road will be tested against the Celtics’ strong home record. Betting trends suggest a high-scoring game, making the OVER a potential good pick.
In choosing between the two teams, the Celtics, with their home-court advantage and superior record, seem like the safer bet. However, the Lakers’ resilience should not be underestimated. Basketball betting picks for this game should consider the potential for a high-scoring affair and the strengths of each team’s key players.
