The battle for LA commences once again on Friday as the Lakers (12-11) host the Clippers (11-11) at Staples Center. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 P.M. PST.
The Clippers have lost three consecutive games including a couple of dreadful losses against the Pistons and Kings. On the flip side, the Lakers have won two games in a row and are on the verge of beginning a winning streak.
Clippers at Lakers Stats
Looking at the Los Angeles Clippers stats
The Clippers are led by star Paul George who is averaging just over 25 points per game. Past him, they don’t have many scoring options.
Their main issue is sharing the ball. Since George is the clear number one option, the opportunities for assists for the team are hard to come by. George is often left in isolation creating his own shot.
The Clippers rank 20th in the league in assists per game.
They are also trending in the wrong direction overall. This is the same Clipper team that had a seven-game win streak to open up in November. However, they begin December in the midst of a three-game losing streak.
The Clippers need to rebound against the Lakers on Friday.
Looking at the Los Angeles Lakers stats
The Lakers have won two consecutive games and could make it three in a row with a victory against their Los Angeles rival.
The Lakers need to limit the turnovers on Friday. They currently are ranked 28th in the NBA with over 15 turnovers per game. Taking care of the ball has to be a priority if they want to fully turn their season around and make a competitive postseason run.
One thing this team does well is score the basketball. Between LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Russell Westbrook, and Carmelo Anthony, the Lakers possess the ability to consistently find the bottom of the net. They are ranked fourth in the NBA in points per game.
This Clipper defense should not give them too much trouble in that department. If the Lakers take care of the basketball they will have an opportunity to earn the victory on Friday.
Betting Trends for Los Angeles Clippers at Los Angeles Lakers
- The Clippers are 9-13 ATS in 2021.
- The Lakers are 8-15 ATS this season which is the worst in the NBA.
- The Clippers are 8-10 ATS this year when favored by 2 or more points.
- The Lakers are 14-9 O/U.
Who to Bet Los Angeles Clippers at Los Angeles Lakers
Top Sportsbooks have the Clippers as 2-point favorites for Friday’s game. However, the Lakers are expected to have LeBron back from covid protocols and they are trending in an upward direction. This is an excellent opportunity for bettors to take a chance on the underdog.
Once again, if they take care of the basketball they will win this game. I believe the Lakers will come out victorious on Friday night.
Take the Lakers -1.5.
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