Los Angeles Lakers vs. Chicago Bulls 12/20/23 – As the Los Angeles Lakers and Chicago Bulls gear up for their showdown on Wednesday, the NBA betting picks today are buzzing with anticipation. The Lakers, boasting a respectable 15-11 record, are set to face the Bulls, who are struggling at 10-17, at the United Center. This matchup promises to be an intriguing battle, highlighting the contrasting fortunes of the two teams in this NBA season.
| When: | Wednesday, December 20, 2023 at 8:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | United Center |
| TV: | NBCS-CHI |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Get the duo to All-Star ⭐️#VoteLakers
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) December 19, 2023
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lakers | -5 -111 | o225.5 -111 | -208 |  |
| Bulls | +5 -111 | u225.5 -111 | +175 | |
| ||||
LeBron James (SF) vs. DeMar DeRozan (SF)
LeBron James continues his MVP-caliber season for the Lakers, averaging 25.2 points, 7.5 rebounds and 7 assists per game. His versatile scoring and playmaking have sparked LA’s surge up the Western Conference standings. However, James’s subpar defense and 3-point shooting (29.7%) remain weaknesses in his game. With Alex Caruso likely drawing the assignment, the Bulls have a strong wing defender to potentially slow down the King.
Meanwhile, DeMar DeRozan is carrying the load for Chicago at 22.5 points per game to go along with 5.2 assists. Though not an elite outside shooter, DeRozan’s crafty mid-range scoring and foul drawing help anchor the Bulls’ offense. However, his subpar defense could be a liability against the likes of James. Still, expect DeRozan and James to engage in a high-profile scoring duel on Wednesday night.
With two elite offensive talents facing off, James and DeRozan will likely cancel each other out to an extent. The key factor will be which supporting cast steps up to provide supplemental scoring for their team. For LA, the hot-shooting duo of Lonnie Walker IV and Troy Brown Jr will be players to watch. On Chicago’s side, Zach LaVine’s three-point marksmanship could play a pivotal role.
Lakers’ Statistical Superiority: A Closer Look
The Lakers, with an average of 114 points per game, show a potent offensive capability. Their field goal percentage of 48.8% is a testament to their efficient scoring. The team’s balance in offensive and defensive rebounds, combined with a decent free throw percentage, illustrates their well-rounded approach to the game.
Analyzing the Bulls: Numbers Tell the Tale
The Bulls, scoring 109.9 points per game, are not far behind in offensive prowess. Their strength lies in their 3-point shooting, with a slightly better percentage than the Lakers. However, their lower field goal percentage and rebounding numbers hint at areas where the Lakers might exploit.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be determined. However, based on current performance and statistics, the Los Angeles Lakers might emerge as favorites. The over/under will be an interesting aspect to watch, considering both teams’ scoring abilities.
Trends
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
Los Angeles Lakers are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
LA Lakers are 4-1 in their last 5 games against the spread
Los Angeles Lakers are 5-6 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Lakers’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Lakers’ 13 last games at home
Chicago Bulls Betting Trends
Chicago Bulls are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
The Chicago Bulls are 4-1 in their last 5 games against the spread
Chicago Bulls are 3-7 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 4 of Bulls’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 7 of Bulls’ 13 last games at home
Injuries
Lakers
LeBron James SF Is “?” Wednesday vs Chicago, Calf
Anthony Davis PF Is “?” Wednesday vs Chicago, Ankle
Gabe Vincent PG Is upgraded to probable Wednesday vs Chicago, Knee
Jalen Hood-Schifino SG Is “?” Wednesday vs Chicago, Back
Bulls
Zach LaVine SG Is out indefinitely, Foot
Lonzo Ball PG Is out for season, Knee
Torrey Craig SG Is out indefinitely, Heel
Henri Drell SG Is OUT Wednesday vs LA Lakers, Thumb
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Chicago Bulls Betting Picks
Considering the recent trends and key player matchups, the Lakers seem to have a slight edge, especially with LeBron’s all-round impact. However, the Bulls’ recent form and home advantage cannot be ignored. The over/under bet could be tricky, but a potentially high-scoring game is on the cards.
In conclusion, while the Lakers might be the safer pick, the Bulls’ recent upswing makes them a tempting underdog bet. Prop bets on key player performances, especially LeBron James and DeMar DeRozan, could be interesting. For those engaging in online sportsbook betting, this game presents several intriguing options. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Lakers 112, Bulls 108.
