Charlotte Hornets vs. Los Angeles Lakers 12/28/23 – On Thursday, the Charlotte Hornets are scheduled to play against Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena in a highly anticipated NBA matchup that is sure to attract both sports bettors and avid basketball fans alike. Enthusiasts are actively looking for reliable NBA free picks; many anticipate an epic prime-time showdown between team performance and individual skill, which promises to heighten anticipation surrounding this event even further.
| When: | Thursday, December 28, 2023 at 10:30 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | — |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
The LA sun hitting different ☀️#LetsFly35 pic.twitter.com/OQN8ssOkQe
— Charlotte Hornets (@hornets) December 28, 2023
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hornets | +12 -114 | o228.5 -111 | +580 |  |
| Lakers | -12 -109 | u228.5 -111 | -833 | |
| ||||
LaMelo Ball (PG) vs. LeBron James (SF)
LaMelo Ball of the Charlotte Hornets represents an immense challenge to Los Angeles Lakers. Ball averages 24.7 points and 8.2 assists per game for Charlotte while also boasting an assist-to-turnover ratio of 8.2. His youth and vigor may serve him well; however, high pressure situations often present challenges to Ball’s performance.
LeBron James, an incredible small forward for the Lakers and well-recognized leader on and off the court, brings with him an array of experience and abilities into any competition he enters. Averaging 25.7 points, 7.7 rebounds and 7.3 assists over his tenure with them, James has demonstrated an impactful presence across a game’s many aspects – such as offense/defense alignments/team strategy or composure under pressure; his leadership qualities may prove essential as well.
This matchup between Ball and James promises to be an intriguing battle, showcasing both emerging talent and established expertise. Ball’s agility and shooting capabilities will put LeBron’s defensive abilities to the test while his experience and strength could impact Ball’s offensive production. But their duel won’t just affect individual statistics – its results could potentially alter team dynamics significantly and determine who ultimately wins this game.
Charlotte Hornets: Notable Achievements Beyond Win-Loss Record
Though they haven’t had much luck on the court, Charlotte Hornets have nonetheless garnered national attention with some noteworthy statistical achievements. Their average scoring stands at 110.4 points per game with an effective field goal percentage of 46.7% and an impressive 3-point shooting success rate of 35.2%; their free throw percentage stands out as well as 41.6 rebounds per game and 18.8 fouls committed per game which may become problematic against stronger competition like Los Angeles Lakers. However, some areas for concern include 13.5 turnovers per game as well as 19.8 fouls committed per game which could hurt against formidable teams like LA Lakers.
Los Angeles Lakers: A Profile of Strengths and Weaknesses
Los Angeles Lakers have demonstrated impressive offensive capabilities, averaging 114 points per game. Their field goal percentage stands out at 48.6% while 3-point shooting accuracy almost matches that of Charlotte Hornets; where they fall short is free throw percentage (76.4%). Rebounding was their area of strength (44.1 per game), assisted (27.2), steals (7.6) and blocks (5.6 per game) are other strong areas; yet, similar to Charlotte Hornets they too suffer from an alarming turnover rate (13.7), which may play out in future encounters against them both teams.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
Wagering probabilities and points differentials have yet to be set in this contest; their establishment could significantly influence wagering tactics. Due to the Los Angeles Lakers’ impressive track record and advantage of competing on their home court, it seems likely that they will be seen as favorites when considering betting tactics.
Trends
Charlotte Hornets Betting Trends
Hornets are 0-5 in their last 5 games.
Hornets are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Charlotte Hornets are 4-8 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Hornets’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 7 of Hornets’ 15 last games at home.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
Lakers are 1-4 in their last 5 games.
LA Lakers are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Lakers are 7-10 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 4 of Lakers’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 4 of Lakers’ 15 last games at home.
Injuries
Hornets
Gordon Hayward SF Is OUT Thursday vs LA Lakers, Calf
Frank Ntilikina PG Is out indefinitely, Tibia
LaMelo Ball PG Is out indefinitely, Ankle
Mark Williams C Is doubtful Thursday vs LA Lakers, Back
Brandon Miller SF Is “?” Thursday vs LA Lakers, Ankle
Lakers
LeBron James SF Is “?” Thursday vs Charlotte, Knee
Anthony Davis PF Is “?” Thursday vs Charlotte, Ankle
Gabe Vincent PG Is out indefinitely, Knee
Charlotte Hornets vs. Los Angeles Lakers Betting Picks
Comprehensive analysis and current trends indicate that the Los Angeles Lakers hold an edge in their upcoming match against Charlotte Hornets due to their superior defensive capabilities and strategic advantage of playing on home court. However, Charlotte Hornets should not be disregarded due to their potential unpredictability – particularly due to LaMelo Ball delivering stellar performances – should not be disregarded.
Given the Lakers’ recent performance trajectory, it would seem wise to give the edge to them for victory. Additionally, there’s every reason to believe that total score may surpass initial predictions; this offers prop betting opportunities centered on individual achievements like LeBron James potentially reaching high point totals.
As experts of online top casinos, free tips often favor the Lakers when the point spread is acceptable and their predicted score aligns with their statistical and home court advantages. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Lakers 115, Hornets 105.
