Oklahoma City Thunder (26-11) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (19-20)
On January 15, 2024, Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Lakers are set to engage in what promises to be an exhilarating matchup between them and bettors alike. The Thunder have amassed 26-11 wins while their opponent currently stands at 19-20 records. Set for Crypto.com Arena and broadcasted live via NBA TV, fans eagerly anticipating this clash are searching for top live betting websites for optimal odds and insights into this matchup.
Oklahoma City Thunder have proven themselves as an outstanding opponent this season. Averaging 122.8 points per game on offense with a 50.9% field shooting percentage and 39.7% from beyond the arc; they also average 8.2 steals and 6.5 blocks per game, as evidence of their outstanding defense; consistently making 13.2 three-pointers while maintaining an 83.8% free-throw percentage shows their flexibility and adaptability in different game situations.
On the other hand, Los Angeles Lakers should not be underestimated despite their less-than-stellar record. Averaging 113.8 points per game with a 48.6% field goal percentage and 35.6% accuracy from three-point range may not compare to Oklahoma City Thunder’s 36%, yet still pose significant threats in high scoring affairs. Furthermore, Los Angeles Lakers excel in rebounding with 43.1 averaged per game which could play a critical role in controlling game tempo and creating second chance points.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Los Angeles Lakers Game Info
| When: | Monday, January 15, 2024, at 10:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | NBA TV |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander PG vs. Austin Reaves SG
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder’s point guard, has been outstanding this season. Playing all 36 games and averaging 31.4 points and 6.3 assists per game is truly impressive. Additionally, with 2.3 steals per game and two turnovers per game as an invaluable defensive asset he remains an important resource despite any vulnerability from rival teams like Los Angeles Lakers who might take advantage of him in games against them.
Austin Reaves of the Lakers may not have as high of an offensive scoring average as Gilgeous-Alexander does, but brings an effective all-around game. Over his 39 games including 14 starts he has averaged 15.1 points and 5.2 assists per game with lower turnover rates (2 per game) and less fouls than Gilgeous-Alexander at (1.7 per game). Reaves’ ability to contribute across the board could prove essential in tight situations for his team.
Gilgeous-Alexander and Reaves’ matchup will be an intriguing aspect of this game, as Gilgeous-Alexander’s aggressive playstyle and scoring abilities will put Reaves’ defensive skills under scrutiny; on the other hand, Reaves’ efficiency and consistency will test Gilgeous-Alexander’s control and discipline.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
Betting odds for this match have yet to be set; however, given Oklahoma City Thunder’s impressive record and offensive statistics, they could emerge as clear favorites. Given the unpredictability of NBA games however, bettors should keep tabs on changing odds or team dynamics closer to game day in order to maximize chances of success.
Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Trends
The Thunder’s recent performance, with a 3-2 record in their last five games, shows both consistency and vulnerability. Their 10-6 road game against the spread record shows they excel under pressure and in unfamiliar environments; yet four of their last five totals went OVER for bettors’ consideration when considering over/under bets.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
The Lakers’ betting trends reveal an uneven picture. Their 2-3 record in their last five matches and disappointing 1-4 against the spread indicate struggles in meeting expectations, yet their impressive performance against the spread on road games (8-11) may indicate resilience under challenging circumstances. Notably, 7 of 21 home totals went OVER in recent games indicating high-scoring affairs can occur more frequently compared to their Thunder counterparts.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Los Angeles Lakers 1/15/24 Betting Picks
Statistics and trends favor the Thunder in this matchup, with their offensive firepower and decent road record against spread betting suggesting they could cover any reasonable spread set by oddsmakers. But it must also be noted that Lakers could provide some unpredictability at home court advantage; potential prop bet strategies might focus on individual performances like points scored by key players to maximize winning chances.
As far as team performance goes, the Thunder are generally safe bets given their overall season performance. Over/Under will ultimately depend on set totals but due to their tendency toward high scoring games it might be worth considering an OVER bet when making NBA predictions and picks. Be mindful of pregame reports for injuries or tactical shifts that may alter these predictions or picks as part of your NBA picks and predictions!
