Memphis Grizzlies vs. Los Angeles Lakers 1/5/24 – As Memphis Grizzlies prepare for their midseason matchup against Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena this Friday, anticipation builds rapidly ahead of this major mid-season encounter. Both sides look upon it as crucial in their pursuit for improved standings; and analysts closely following both teams performance trajectories have taken notice of this opportunity in NBA betting picks.
| When: | Friday, January 5, 2024, at 10:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
when i see you. @flymemphis pic.twitter.com/BWEq6yWUyU
— Memphis Grizzlies (@memgrizz) January 5, 2024
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grizzlies | +5.5 -110 | o228.5 -110 | +170 |  |
| Lakers | -5.5 -110 | u228.5 -110 | -200 | |
| ||||
Ja Morant (PG) vs. LeBron James (SF)
Ja Morant has continued his impressive performance from last season despite only playing six games this year. An explosive guard, Morant is currently averaging 25.2 points and 7.8 assists per game with nearly 50% shooting accuracy from the field – his prolific scoring and playmaking capabilities pose a considerable threat to Los Angeles Lakers’ perimeter defense, yet Morant’s defensive abilities continue to be tested against top players like LeBron James.
LeBron James, in his 20th season, continues to impress, averaging 25.4 points, 7.4 rebounds and 7.4 assists per game on average. Without Anthony Davis in play, James has assumed more responsibility, as evidenced by consecutive 40-point games this week. Despite potential drops in energy due to playing multiple back-to-back matches on national TV broadcasts he often excels. Against emerging talents like Ja Morant he often shows great effort which leads to stellar performances regardless of playing time commitments.
This game between these two dynamic playmakers promises to be a spectacular spectacle of basketball. Morant should penetrate and score efficiently against the Lakers’ weak defense; however, LeBron’s diverse skill set, combined with his vast experience and intense competitive spirit may give him a competitive edge over Morant who may lack such experience.
Memphis Grizzlies’ Season Struggles
Memphis Grizzlies have experienced many difficulties this season, as evidenced by their unimpressive record of 10 wins and 22 losses. On offense, they have posted an average score of 106.8 points per game with an overall field goal success rate of 43.7%; three-point shooting has been relatively poor with only 33.2% success rate; defensively they average 41.8 rebounds and 7.5 steals per game while their high turnover rate – 13.8 turnovers per game – poses significant vulnerability that opponents can exploit when facing them off like Los Angeles Lakers or Atlanta Hawks later in December!
Los Angeles Lakers’ Balanced Performance
Los Angeles Lakers have displayed more even results this season, holding an even record of 17 wins and 17 losses. Their offensive output stands out, scoring 114.2 points per game on average with an outstanding field goal percentage of 48.5% and three-point shooting efficiency standing at 35.7% respectively. Furthermore, their assists per game average stands at 27.4 which further accentuates their offensive strengths; yet defensive statistics highlight potential vulnerabilities which Memphis Grizzlies can take advantage of; for them maintaining offensive drive will be key moving forward.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under :TBD
Betting odds for this match-up have yet to be set, though the Lakers appear to have an edge due to their recent performance and Grizzlies’ struggles. Therefore, bettors should keep tabs on these developing odds for insights into game’s dynamics.
Trends
Memphis Grizzlies Betting Trends
Grizzlies are 2-3 in their last 5 games.
Memphis Grizzlies are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Grizzlies are 9-9 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Grizzlies’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 4 of Grizzlies’ 14 last games at home.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
Lakers are 2-3 in their last 5 games.
LA Lakers are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Lakers are 8-11 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 5 of Lakers’ 16 last games at home.
Injuries
Grizzlies
Derrick Rose PG Is out indefinitely, Hamstring
Steven Adams C Is out for season, Knee
Brandon Clarke PF Is out indefinitely, Achilles
Ja Morant PG Injured last game, is probable Friday vs LA Lakers, Ankle
Vince Williams Jr. SF Is “?” Friday vs LA Lakers, Foot
Lakers
LeBron James SF Is “?” Friday vs Memphis, Ankle
D’Angelo Russell PG Is “?” Friday vs Memphis, Tailbone
Rui Hachimura PF Is “?” Friday vs Memphis, Calf
Gabe Vincent PG Is out indefinitely, Knee
Memphis Grizzlies vs. Los Angeles Lakers Betting Picks
In summary, the forthcoming game offers an intriguing and demanding environment for betting enthusiasts. The Los Angeles Lakers appear to possess a marginal advantage, predominantly due to their superior offensive skills and extensive experience. Nonetheless, the Memphis Grizzlies’ capacity to cause unexpected outcomes should not be overlooked, particularly if Ja Morant successfully navigates through the Lakers’ defensive strategies.
For those engaged in top-tier online betting, placing a wager on the Lakers could be considered a more secure option, particularly in terms of covering the spread. Proposition bets focusing on individual player achievements, especially those related to LeBron James, may offer substantial financial rewards. Additionally, the prevailing trend of high scoring games involving the Lakers indicates that bets favoring a total score exceeding the predicted threshold could be a judicious choice. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Lakers 112, Grizzlies 105.
