LA Clippers vs. Los Angeles Lakers 1/7/24 – As the LA Clippers gear up to face the Los Angeles Lakers in a highly-anticipated match on Sunday, the NBA world is abuzz with predictions and analyses. Holding a more favorable 21-12 record, the Clippers are seemingly in a better position against the Lakers, who stand at 17-18. This game, set to unfold at the Crypto.com Arena, is the talk of every top sportsbook online, with fans and bettors eagerly waiting to see how these two teams, so close in geography yet so far in standings, will compete.
| When: | Sunday, January 7, 2024, at 9:30 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | SportsNet LA |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
https://t.co/YMzMAXvnaj pic.twitter.com/zQ4mYKz5FH
— LA Clippers (@LAClippers) January 7, 2024
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clippers | -2 -111 | o232 -111 | -127 |  |
| Lakers | +2 -111 | u232 -111 | +108 | |
| ||||
Kawhi Leonard (SF) vs. Anthony Davis (PF)
Kawhi Leonard continues his stellar return season for the Clippers, averaging 24.6 points on 49% shooting to go along with 6 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game. He remains one of the league’s top two-way players, making life difficult for opponents at both ends. His mid-range scoring ability and smothering defense make him a matchup nightmare. Leonard’s health is always a question mark, but when healthy he is nearly unstoppable.
Anthony Davis is putting up impressive raw numbers – 25.2 points, 12.5 rebounds and 2.7 blocks per game. However, his impact has been muted by the Lakers’ poor play and his own inconsistency. Davis’ outside shot has abandoned him, as he shoots just 27% from three. This allows defenses to packed the paint, forcing Davis into tough two-point looks. While still a force, Davis must improve his efficiency if the Lakers are to turn things around.
This matchup pits two of the league’s top big men against one another. Leonard’s strength and Davis’ length make for an intriguing contrast in styles. While Davis has a significant size advantage, Leonard’s relentless attacking style could exploit Davis’ up-and-down intensity. This individual battle could end up deciding the game.
Clippers’ Scoring Power: A Closer Look
The Clippers have been impressive on offense this season, scoring an average of 117.2 points per game at an impressive field goal percentage of 49%. Their beyond-the-arc shooting has also been exceptional – they average 12.7 three-pointers per game at a success rate of 38.5%! Their outside shooting threat may also help stretch out Lakers defenses, creating more room for inside play.
Lakers’ Rebounding and Defense: Key Factors
The Lakers have been somewhat less prolific when it comes to scoring, averaging 113.7 points per game on average, but their strength lies in rebounding. Averaging 43.7 rebounds per game with Davis leading the charge on 12.5, they could dominate on defense while still maintaining an overall field goal percentage of 48.3% and being able to generate second chance points through offensive rebounding could prove crucial.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
The current betting odds for the game are yet to be determined. However, bettors should keep a close eye on the spread and moneyline once they are released, as they could offer insights into which team has the edge according to sportsbooks.
Trends
LA Clippers Betting Trends
LA Clippers are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
Clippers are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread.
LA Clippers are 7-8 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Clippers’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 5 of Clippers’ 18 last games at home.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
Los Angeles Lakers are 1-4 in their last 5 games.
LA Lakers are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Los Angeles Lakers are 8-11 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Lakers’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 5 of Lakers’ 17 last games at home.
Injuries
LA Clippers
Moussa Diabate PF Is out indefinitely, Hand
Los Angeles Lakers
LeBron James SF Is “?” Sunday vs LA Clippers, Ankle
Anthony Davis PF Is probable Sunday vs LA Clippers, Ankle
D’Angelo Russell PG Is “?” Sunday vs LA Clippers, Tailbone
Rui Hachimura PF Is downgraded to OUT Sunday vs LA Clippers, Calf
Gabe Vincent PG Is out indefinitely, Knee
LA Clippers vs. Los Angeles Lakers Betting Picks
Considering the form and statistics, the Clippers seem to be the safer bet. Their strong offensive performance and ability to consistently score from the three-point line give them an edge. However, the Lakers’ rebounding prowess, especially on the defensive end, could be a game-changer. For those looking for free NBA betting picks, a closer look at the over/under might be fruitful, given the high-scoring nature of both teams.
While the Clippers seem to have a statistical advantage, the Lakers’ capability to bounce back in crucial games cannot be overlooked. Prop bets on individual player performances, like points scored by Leonard or rebounds by Davis, could also be interesting options for bettors. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Clippers 115, Lakers 110.
