Dallas Mavericks vs. Los Angeles Lakers Matchup Breakdown & Preview

NBA Preview: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Dallas Mavericks

The Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks will battle for the third and final time this regular season when they meet on Wednesday, April 9 at 7:30 PM ET at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. MyBookie currently has the Lakers favored with a point spread at -5.5 (-110).

Los Angeles Lakers Betting Preview

The Lakers have looked appealing in their last 10 games, at least in the ones they were victorious in. They are battling through some rotational situations due to players missing out and needing rest before the playoffs.

LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves are listed as probable for now due to various injuries they are coming off of. Assuming they are healthy, this outcome will likely be different. James, for example, leads the team with 24.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 8.4 assists each game and will be huge if he does not play.

Los Angeles currently ranks 19th in points per game as they put up 113.4. Their defense ranks 11th for giving up 112.1 points to opponents. This margin is thin and they cannot afford a lot of mistakes.

The Lakers are efficient with their offense per 100 possessions, ranking 11th in the league. Their defense at the same rate of efficiency ranks 14th. Overall, their efficiency on both ends of the floor ranks 14th in the league.

Dallas Mavericks Betting Preview

The Mavs have lost three out of their last five games and do not have the best momentum approaching this matchup. Their recent defeat was a 135-104 blowout against the Los Angeles Clippers, which is also their second loss to them two straight days.

Jaden Hardy and Daniel Gafford are listed as a game time decision, which would hurt their roster even further if they lose more players. A lot of pressure will be placed on Anthony Davis (25.0 PPG, 11.6 REB) to help carry the offense.

Dallas is averaging 114.5 points per game, ranking 13th. On defense they struggle a bit in allowing 115.4 points a game. This margin is slightly negative and shows they have issues on the defensive end.

The Mavs efficiency on offense in each 100 possessions ranks 14th while their defensive efficiency at the same rate ranks 20th. In total, they rank 18th for their effort on both ends of the floor.

MyBookie has you covered for the best Los Angeles Lakers vs. Dallas Mavericks betting odds, which reveal the Lakers as 5.5-point favorites. Market predictions suggest that the Mavs have a 67.6 percent chance of winning this matchup.

Unless the Lakers have a lot of players sitting out, they are likely the most appealing option here against a beat up Mavs. This team is gearing towards a run in the playoffs and they are not looking to mess around. Look for the Lakers to cover the spread.

Final Pick: Los Angeles Lakers -5.5 (-110)