Los Angeles Lakers (15-11) vs. Chicago Bulls (10-17)
Los Angeles vs. Chicago December 20, 2023 – As NBA action ramps up, Los Angeles Lakers and Chicago Bulls will clash in an intriguing matchup on Wednesday. The Lakers currently stand at 15-11 while Chicago Bulls with 10-17 hope to climb their rankings, creating an intense matchup that could determine who makes the playoffs this year. Fans and bettors alike look forward to making basketball winning picks with both teams showing promise yet unpredictable performance on court.
Los Angeles vs. Chicago December 20, 2023 Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, December 20, 2023, at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | United Center |
| TV: | NBCS-CHI |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
LeBron James SF vs. DeMar DeRozan SF
LeBron James continues to defy Father Time, averaging 25.2 points, 7.5 rebounds and 7 assists per game in his 21st NBA season. The King remains virtually unstoppable when attacking the rim, while expertly setting up teammates with his court vision. However, his outside shooting has regressed this year, currently posting career-worst percentages from deep.
DeMar DeRozan is the engine that makes the Bulls go, leading the team in scoring (22.5 ppg) and coming up big in crunch time. DeRozan lives at the foul line and has a lethal mid-range game. While not a defensive stopper, he gives maximum effort and has quick hands. His effectiveness scoring late in games gives Chicago a decided edge.
This marquee small forward matchup will be a treat for fans. While LeBron has a size advantage, DeRozan’s bag of tricks should challenge the Lakers star. Expect both to have big nights, but DeRozan’s fourth quarter prowess could be the difference if this one goes down to the wire.
Lakers’ Statistical Spotlight
The Lakers’ offensive firepower is evident in their 114 PPG average. Their shooting efficiency, with a 48.8 FG% and 35% from beyond the arc, makes them a formidable offensive unit. However, their Achilles heel might be their turnover rate (13.9 per game), a stat that could haunt them against a team like the Bulls, known for their quick transitions and steals.
Bulls’ Statistical Analysis
The Bulls, averaging 109.9 PPG, might seem slightly behind in scoring, but their three-point shooting (36.7%) is a significant threat. Their rebounding numbers, particularly offensive rebounds (12.1 per game), could give them extra possessions, crucial in a close contest. Their defensive intensity, leading to 8.1 steals per game, could disrupt the Lakers’ flow, especially targeting their turnovers.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
As betting odds are yet to be determined, the Lakers might emerge as favorites given their better win-loss record. However, the Bulls’ recent form and home advantage could sway the odds.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
Lakers are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
LA Lakers are 4-1 in their last 5 games against the spread
Lakers are 5-6 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Lakers’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Lakers’ 13 last games at home
Chicago Bulls Betting Trends
Bulls are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
Chicago Bulls are 4-1 in their last 5 games against the spread
Bulls are 3-7 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 4 of Bulls’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 7 of Bulls’ 13 last games at home
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Chicago Bulls Betting Picks
Considering the form, stats, and trends, this game is shaping up to be a closely contested battle. The Lakers, with their offensive prowess, have the edge, but the Bulls’ recent form and home-court advantage cannot be overlooked. The key will be the Lakers’ ability to manage turnovers and the Bulls’ effectiveness in exploiting them.
In terms of betting, the safer pick seems to be the Lakers, given their overall consistency. However, for those looking at value bets, the Bulls could be an intriguing underdog, especially with the trends favoring higher-scoring games at home. Prop bets around individual player performances, particularly LeBron James and DeMar DeRozan, could be attractive given their impactful roles.
For those seeking advice from USA top sportsbooks, closely monitoring the line movements and injury reports leading up to the game will be crucial.
Receiving Yards Prop: Lakers 110, Bulls 105
