New Orleans Pelicans vs. Los Angeles Lakers 2/9/24 – As the NBA season heats up, the upcoming clash between the New Orleans Pelicans (29-21) and the Los Angeles Lakers (27-25) on February 9, 2024, is drawing considerable attention from fans and bettors alike. The Pelicans, sitting comfortably in the upper echelon of their conference, are looking to solidify their standing, while the Lakers aim to climb higher in the rankings. This game is not just a test of skill and strategy but also a significant event for those looking into basketball latest free picks.
| When: | Friday, February 9, 2024 at 10:30 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | NBAt |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
CJ (25 PTS, 7 REB, 4 AST) led the way in last night’s win vs the Clippers! pic.twitter.com/KaKHdrslAQ
— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) February 8, 2024
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pelicans | +1 -111 | o238 -111 | -105 |  |
| Lakers | -1 -111 | u238 -111 | -115 | |
| ||||
Brandon Ingram (SF) vs. LeBron James (SF)
Brandon Ingram has emerged as one of the most dominant offensive forces in the game. He’s averaging 21.8 points on 61% shooting to go along with 5 rebounds and 5.7 assists per game. Ingram uses his combination of size, explosiveness and skill to overpower opponents in the paint. His much improved playmaking ability also makes him difficult to defend. However, his outside shooting remains a weakness that teams can exploit at times.
Meanwhile, LeBron James continues to defy father time in his 20th NBA season at age 39. While not quite as prolific a scorer as in years past, he still averages 24.9 points, 7.3 rebounds and 7.6 assists per game. His basketball IQ, court vision and passing ability enable him to control games. And despite the heavy mileage on his legs, LeBron remains an above average on-ball defender when locked in. Fatigue has been a factor at times for James this season though.
This matchup pits Brandon Ingram’s inside dominance against LeBron’s all-around brilliance. Ingram should have the advantage on the interior. But if LeBron gets hot from the perimeter and facilitates for teammates, he can offset that. Whichever star imposes their will more could decide this game.
Pelicans’ Strategic Edge
The New Orleans Pelicans have proven themselves as a high-scoring team, averaging an average of 116.9 points per game on offense led by Ingram ‘s inside presence and their collective shooting accuracy. On defense, their 8.2 steals and 4.7 blocks per game demonstrate their ability to disrupt opponent plays while their 12.6 turnovers per game could give opponents like the Lakers opportunities for advantage.
Lakers’ Balanced Attack
Los Angeles Lakers average 116.2 points per game on offense but make up for it with their efficiency, particularly their 49.2% field goal percentage. Their play is marked by well-rounded approach utilizing James’ leadership and team depth; assists (28.3 per game) show this team works cohesively together and moves the ball efficiently; however, their higher turnover rate (13.6) could prove decisive in this matchup.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be determined, reflecting the closely matched nature of the contest. Bettors should keep an eye on the spread and moneyline as they become available, considering the teams’ recent forms and head-to-head records.
Trends
Pelicans Betting Trends
Pelicans are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
New Orleans Pelicans are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Pelicans are 13-11 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Pelicans’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 12 of Pelicans’ 25 last games at home.
Lakers Betting Trends
Lakers are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
LA Lakers are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Lakers are 11-16 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 10 of Lakers’ 26 last games at home.
Injuries
Pelicans
Jonas Valanciunas C Left last game, is “?” Friday vs LA Lakers, Calf
Naji Marshall SF Is “?” Friday vs LA Lakers, Back
Lakers
LeBron James SF Is upgraded to probable Thursday vs Denver, Ankle
Anthony Davis PF Is upgraded to probable Thursday vs Denver, Achilles
D’Angelo Russell PG Is upgraded to probable Thursday vs Denver, Undisclosed
Jarred Vanderbilt SF Is out indefinitely, Foot
Cam Reddish SG Is out indefinitely, Ankle
Pelicans vs. Lakers Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and recent betting trends, this game is poised to be a close contest. While both teams have their strengths and vulnerabilities, the key battle will be between Ingram and James, whose performances could decisively influence the game’s outcome. The Pelicans’ road performance against the spread suggests they could cover, but the Lakers’ experience and strategic depth at home cannot be underestimated.
When considering a pick, look beyond the traditional win/loss markets. Prop bets involving player performances, particularly for Ingram and James, could offer value given their importance to their respective teams. In terms of the over/under, considering both teams’ offensive capabilities and recent trends toward high-scoring games, the over might be a promising option for bettors looking for action at top-tier online casinos. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Pelicans 112, Lakers 110.
