The first of two marquee games on TNT is a Western Conference showdown between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Dallas Mavericks.

The early spread has been steadily climbing in favor of the Lakers since being released, and for good reason too.

 

 

 

Los Angeles Lakers: You’ve Got A Friend In Me

The Los Angeles Lakers recently made moves that have helped their roster. Austin Reaves has stepped up and provided stability in the backcourt, without sharing as many minutes. Meanwhile Dorian Finney-Smith has provided tough defense as a true ‘3&D’ player. Something the Lakers desperately needed.

Anthony Davis and LeBron James keep reminding each other that they’ve got a friend in each other. They are both listed as day-to-day but have helped the Lakers to win seven of their last ten games. Look for them to get another win together tonight.

 

 

 

Dallas Mavericks: A Moment Like This

The Dallas Mavericks are truly feeling the effects of a championship hangover. They are without their two best players in Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, and their remaining roster is mostly a bunch of older veterans. 

They are on a five game losing streak and have lost seven of their last ten games. They played on the road against the Memphis Grizzlies yesterday in a blowout loss, and have a quick turnaround against a team that has enjoyed a full day’s rest. In A Moment Like This Dallas needs to weather the storm, and stay within the top eight of the Western Conference.

 

 

 

Los Angeles Lakers Starting Lineup

Dallas Mavericks Starting Lineup

 

 

 

Lakers vs. Mavericks Predictions & Picks Today: Tuesday, 1/7

The Mavericks rolled out a bizarre lineup yesterday that was highly ineffective against the Memphis Grizzlies. 

Now they have to play a surging Lakers team that should overpower them as well.

 

 

 

Lakers vs. Mavericks Prediction: Los Angeles -5.5 (-110 on Bet365) 

The spread started at 4.5 points but quickly jumped up. It could move back down if Anthony Davis or LeBron James are declared out, but the Lakers have a healthier, and bigger lineup heading into tonight’s match.

Los Angeles played Houston prior to this game and enjoyed a full day’s rest in Dallas before playing at the American Airlines Center. The Lakers are currently fifth in the Western Conference, 0.5 games ahead of the Dallas Mavericks. This game could have tie breaking implications later down the road, so expect both teams to play with effort.

The Mavericks lost their most recent match by 15 points, and the spread was similar to what it is today. They do not have the depth or size to give the Lakers much grief in this match. Put a unit on the Lakers to cover the -5.5 spread against the Mavericks.

 

 

 

Bet Smart, Be Lucky -Iggy-