Los Angeles Lakers vs. Phoenix Suns 2/25/24 – As the NBA season heats up, an intriguing matchup looms on the horizon with the Los Angeles Lakers (30-26) set to face off against the Phoenix Suns (33-22) in a game that promises to be a thrilling encounter. Both teams have been performing solidly this season, with the Suns slightly ahead in the standings. This game, scheduled for Sunday, February 25, 2024, at 3:30 PM ET at the Footprint Center and broadcasted on ABC, is one not to miss for fans and bettors alike. For those looking for free NBA betting picks today, this game provides a fascinating analysis with both teams showing strong recent form.
| When: | Sunday, February 25, 2024 at 3:30 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Footprint Center |
| TV: | ABC |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Rookie. Vet.
Respect. pic.twitter.com/EuWajdkSV0
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) February 24, 2024
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lakers | TBD | TBD | TBD |  |
| Suns | TBD | TBD | TBD | |
| ||||
Anthony Davis (PF) vs. Kevin Durant (PF)
Anthony Davis has been a machine for the Lakers this season, starting all 52 games while averaging nearly 36 minutes a night. He’s pouring in 24.9 points per contest on highly efficient 49.4% shooting from the field. Davis is also cleaning the glass to the tune of 12.2 rebounds, 3.8 of which are offensive boards. His 3.8 assists and 1.1 steals show his versatile all-around game. However, where Davis truly dominates is blocking shots, swatting 2.5 per game. He’ll need to protect the rim and score efficiently against the Suns.
Kevin Durant has also started every game for Phoenix while seeing 37 minutes of action a night. He’s tallying over 28 points per game on deadly accuracy, hitting 49.9% of his shots. While not locking down the boards like Davis, he’s dishing 5.7 dimes per contest and shooting 81% from the charity stripe. However, his 3.2 turnovers per game is somewhat concerning against a Lakers team ripe with ball handlers. Like Davis though, Durant excels protecting the paint, registering 1.3 blocks per game.
This battle of versatile power forwards with contrasting styles will go a long way in determining Sunday’s outcome. Davis will look to overpower Durant inside while KD counters with his lethal perimeter scoring arsenal. Whichever forward can exploit the other’s weaknesses better will put their team in a great position to win.
Lakers’ Statistical Might
The Lakers have been formidable on offense, averaging 117 points per game with a 49.4% field goal percentage and 37% three-point shooting, coupled with Davis’ inside presence make them a true two-threat threat. Their defensive rebounding and assists per game demonstrate an outstanding team effort – something the Lakers will need to leverage to control game pace and create scoring opportunities in this series.
Suns’ Balanced Attack
The Suns narrowly outscored the Lakers in scoring, averaging 117.6 points per game with a 49.9% field goal percentage. They consistently hit three-pointers (37.2%) and free throws (81%), capitalizing on scoring opportunities effectively. Their defense also excelled against their rival, boasting 10 blocks per game – this balanced approach to both ends will prove essential in this matchup.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be determined, but given the teams’ performances and standings, it could be a close call. Bettors should pay close attention to the spread and moneyline as they become available, considering both teams’ recent form and head-to-head matchups.
Trends
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
Lakers are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
LA Lakers are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Lakers are 12-16 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 11 of Lakers’ 29 last games at home.
Phoenix Suns Betting Trends
Suns are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
Phoenix Suns are 4-1 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Suns are 13-13 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Suns’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 16 of Suns’ 29 last games at home.
Injuries
Los Angeles Lakers
Christian Wood PF Is out indefinitely, Knee
Jarred Vanderbilt SF Is out indefinitely, Foot
Cam Reddish SG Is “?” Sunday vs Phoenix, Ankle
Gabe Vincent PG Is out indefinitely, Knee
Phoenix Suns
Bradley Beal SG Is “?” Sunday vs LA Lakers, Hamstring
Jusuf Nurkic C Is “?” Sunday vs LA Lakers, Ankle
Damion Lee SG Is out indefinitely, Knee
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Phoenix Suns Betting Picks
This game presents a tight contest between two well-matched teams. The key battle between Anthony Davis and Kevin Durant will be crucial, but the depth and team performance will likely determine the outcome. Given the statistical analysis and betting trends, the game could go either way, making it a tough call for bettors.
For those looking at premier betting websites, consider the over/under based on both teams’ recent trends towards high-scoring games. The specific pick might depend on the final spread and moneyline odds, but both teams show potential to cover, with a slight edge perhaps to the Suns given their home advantage and balanced statistical profile. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Suns 115, Lakers 112.
