Toronto Raptors (14-21) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (17-19)
Toronto Raptors vs. Los Angeles Lakers January 9, 2024 – The NBA season heats up as the struggling Toronto Raptors face off against the Los Angeles Lakers in an intriguing matchup. Both teams, with less-than-ideal records, are desperately seeking to climb up the rankings. This game, set for January 9, 2024, at the Crypto.com Arena, promises to be a fascinating contest for fans and bettors alike, especially those looking for top NBA free picks.
Toronto Raptors vs. Los Angeles Lakers January 9, 2024 Game Info
| When: | Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at 10:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | SportsNet LA |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Pascal Siakam (PF) vs. Anthony Davis (PF)
Pascal Siakam has put together another impressive statistical season for the Raptors, averaging 22.3 points, 6.5 rebounds and 5 assists per game. He excels at scoring from all levels and getting to the free throw line. However, he has struggled with consistency and efficiency at times. The Raptors offense relies heavily on Siakam’s versatile scoring ability.
Meanwhile, Anthony Davis remains one of the most dominant big men in the NBA when healthy. He is averaging 25.3 points, 12.3 rebounds and 2.6 blocks this season. Davis is a matchup nightmare with his blend of size, skill and athleticism. He anchors the Lakers defense and is efficient on the offensive end. The main question is whether he can stay healthy down the stretch.
This matchup of versatile power forwards could go a long way in deciding Tuesday’s contest. If Siakam can match Davis’s scoring output, it would give the Raptors a major boost. However, Davis has a significant size advantage and should control the paint on both ends. His defensive presence could stifle Siakam. This big man duel will be must-see basketball.
Raptors Offensive Firepower
Despite Pascal Siakam’s strong individual play, the Raptors have largely struggled offensively this season. As a team, Toronto averages 114.5 points per game – down from last season. Their shooting percentages are rather average across the board as well. The Raptors have had trouble keeping up with high-powered offenses. Their lack of three-point shooting in particular has been alarming. For Toronto to get back in the win column, the supporting cast must step up.
Lakers Defensive Struggles
Conversely, defense has been the Lakers’ biggest weakness. They allow the fifth-most points per game at 117.1. Opponents have their way both inside the paint and from the perimeter against LA. In particular, the Lakers struggle against teams with great outside shooting. Their defensive rating of 114.9 ranks in the bottom third of the league. Unless Anthony Davis and the big men protect the rim better, the Lakers will keep hemorrhaging points night after night.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be determined, but given the recent performance of both teams, it could be a closely contested affair. Bettors should keep an eye on the odds as they become available.
Toronto Raptors Betting Trends
Raptors are 2-3 in their last 5 games.
Toronto Raptors are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Raptors are 7-9 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 4 of Raptors’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 9 of Raptors’ 18 last games at home.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
Lakers are 1-4 in their last 5 games.
LA Lakers are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Lakers are 8-11 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 6 of Lakers’ 18 last games at home.
Toronto Raptors vs. Los Angeles Lakers Betting Picks
Considering the current form and statistics, this game presents a challenging pick. The Raptors, despite their struggles, have shown resilience and could surprise the Lakers. The key will be Siakam’s performance against Davis’s defense.
For bettors using legal betting sites, the Lakers might seem like the safer pick, but the Raptors’ ability to cover spreads cannot be overlooked. The over/under will depend on the defensive strategies employed, with a slight edge to the OVER given recent trends.
Receiving Yards Prop: Lakers 118, Raptors 112.
