Prediction, Odds & Betting tips for LA Lakers vs. Phoenix Suns at NBA
Prediction, Odds & Betting tips for LA Lakers vs. Phoenix Suns at NBA
The matchup between the Lakers and the Suns isn’t only about seeing LeBron and Durant. Besides that, it has significance for the playoff picture in the West. Several teams are in the mix for the postseason spot, some for the play-in and others for the direct advance to the playoffs, so the result of Friday’s matchup might have enormous implications on the final standings. The Suns are one of the top contenders for the NBA title, while the purple and gold hope to accelerate in the playoffs, especially with LBJ back on the floor.
LA Lakers
With LeBron in his usual mode and Anthony Davis at a high level of play, the Lakers are a serious threat to any of the rivals in the West. Just to mention that Davis’ form is on the rise, with the Eyebrow winning the latest Player of the Week honors, averaging 38.7 points with 65.2% Fg and 11.7 boards.
LeBron is back on the court, which are sure 25 to 30 points per game, and what is more important, King James is fresh due to his previous absence. He might have to deal with an injury, but on the other side, the veteran regenerated.
During James’ rehabilitation, Austin Reaves stepped up, showing that he has the quality to become a reliable option in the attack. In the last ten games, the 24-year-old averages 19 points per game with 6.2 assists.
Phoenix Suns
KD is back, and the Suns should be much better now. Yes, there is not enough chemistry on the floor because KD didn’t participate in too many games with his new teammates, but still, the expectations are high. For some, that is good; for others, a pressure that might break the team from Phoenix.
The Suns had a five-game winning streak in the last days of March and the start of April, beating teams like the 76ers or the Nuggets, which is a big thing for Monty Williams’ unit. Durant scored 16 against Minnesota and successfully returned to action.
Chris Paul is increasing his form, which might be the key to future success. He and Durant need to create a bond pretty quickly, because these two guys are the most important pieces of the puzzle, with all due respect for Devin Booker.
This is the fourth meeting of the year between the two units, and the current result in the seasonal series is 2-1 for the Suns. They beat the Lakers in Arizona in the first two contests, 115-105 and 130-104, while the LAL responded with a triumph at the Crypto.com Arena in late March, 122-111.
Phoenix is extremely tough to beat, but in this case, the Lakers are playing at home, and their recent games suggest a positive trend in performances. Also, their playoff situation is complicated, and nothing but a win here would suit the hosts. That’s why we pick them to edge out the rivals.
Our verdict: LA Lakers win