New Orleans Pelicans (29-21) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (27-25)
New Orleans Pelicans vs. Los Angeles Lakers February 9, 2024 – As the NBA season heats up, the matchup between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Los Angeles Lakers on February 9, 2024, stands out as a pivotal game for both teams. With the Pelicans holding a slight edge in the standings over the Lakers, this encounter at the Crypto.com Arena promises to be a thrilling contest for fans and bettors alike. Given the tight race in the standings, this game is particularly significant for bettors looking to leverage high-rated betting platforms for their prediction strategies.
New Orleans Pelicans vs. Los Angeles Lakers February 9, 2024 Game Info
| When: | Friday, February 9, 2024 at 10:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | NBAt |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Brandon Ingram (PF) vs. LeBron James (SF)
Brandon Ingram has played 46 games with 46 starts, averaging 33.1 minutes, 21.8 points, 5 rebounds and 5.7 assists per game. He is shooting efficiently from the field but struggles from three (30%). His offensive rebounding provides extra possessions while his steal rate 2.3 is same as Lebron. Foul trouble has not been a major issue for Ingram despite an aggressive attacking style.
LeBron James continues to perform at an All-NBA level in his 20th season. In 46 starts, he’s playing almost 35 minutes a night and posting 24.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, 7.6 assists and 1.3 steals per game on 49% shooting. His playmaking (7.6 assists per game) sets up teammates for easy looks while he protects the ball well (2.3 AST/TO ratio). Staying healthy has been challenging for James at age 39. He will look to defend Ingram and get him in early foul trouble.
This matchup comes down to James’ cerebral all-around play against Ingram ’s raw athletic scoring talent. Both forwards are difficult to slow down when attacking. Ingram should dominate in transition and put pressure on LA’s interior defense. For the Lakers to win, James must impose his will in a variety of ways while avoiding injuries that have plagued his availability. His leadership against the young, rising Pelicans will be vital in this playoff-type showdown.
Pelicans’ Performance Metrics: A Closer Look
New Orleans Pelicans have shown outstanding offensive talent this season, averaging 116.9 points per game while shooting 48% from the field and 12.2 3-point field goals per game from both inside and outside. Their versatility could make them an unpredictable opponent; however, their 12.6 turnovers per game may present opportunities for Lakers opponents like themselves to exploit.
Lakers’ Strategic Edge: Analyzing the Stats
Los Angeles Lakers average 116.2 points per game and have an impressive field goal percentage of 49.2%, as well as an effective defensive unit that features 5.5 blocks per game to maintain control in the paint. They must capitalize on their defensive strengths to counteract New Orleans Pelicans’ potency offensively.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
At present, betting odds for the New Orleans Pelicans vs. Los Angeles Lakers game have yet to be released; when available they will provide invaluable insights for bettors eager to place bets on this highly anticipated contest.
New Orleans Pelicans Betting Trends
Pelicans are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
New Orleans Pelicans are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Pelicans are 13-11 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Pelicans’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 12 of Pelicans’ 25 last games at home.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
Lakers are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
LA Lakers are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Lakers are 11-16 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Lakers’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 10 of Lakers’ 26 last games at home.
New Orleans Pelicans vs. Los Angeles Lakers Betting Picks
Based on performance metrics and betting trends, this game represents a tight contest that could go either way. Victory may depend on each team’s stars’ ability to not just score goals but also influence play through defense and playmaking – something the Lakers might possess an edge in doing due to James’ leadership as defensive leader and their home court advantage.
However, the Pelicans’ offensive versatility and Ingram ‘s impact cannot be underestimated. Betting on the over might be a prudent choice given both teams’ ability to score heavily. For NBA picks and prediction, keep an eye on the final odds and consider prop bets related to the performance of key players like Ingram and James.
Score Prediction: Lakers 112, Pelicans 109
