Are LeBron James and Los Angeles laying too many points in Tuesday night’s Lakers vs. Mavericks matchup at 7:30 p.m. ET?
Game Matchup & Betting Odds
Los Angeles Lakers (-7.5) at Dallas Mavericks (+7.5); o/u 219
7:30 p.m. ET, Tuesday, January 7, 2025
American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX
TV: TNT
Lakers vs. Mavericks Public Betting: Bettors Leaning Towards Dallas
Our NBA Public Betting Information page indicates that 53% of public bettors are currently backing the Mavericks when it comes to the spread. This information is subject to change throughout the day, however, so be sure to check the link so you’re receiving the most up-to-date public betting data.
Davis probable for Lakers
Anthony Davis (left plantar fasciitis) is probable for Tuesday’s game against the Mavericks. Davis is back on the injury report for the season issue that has plagued him for a few games. The probable tag suggests he’ll be able to play. If Davis cannot play, Jaxson Hayes will move into the starting lineup, with Christian Koloko rejoining the rotation. Only Hayes would be worth streaming in this scenario.
Mavs’ Gafford likely out “for some time”
Mavericks coach Jason Kidd said after Monday’s loss to the Grizzlies that Daniel Gafford (left ankle sprain) will likely be “out for some time.” Exactly how much time Gafford will miss won’t be known until Tuesday, but the last thing the Mavericks needed was to lose another rotation player. Dereck Lively II started and played 33 minutes against the Grizzlies; his fantasy value will increase substantially if the playing time holds. Dwight Powell will likely enter the rotation, but he isn’t someone fantasy managers should target in the aftermath of Gafford’s injury.
Lakers vs. Mavericks NBA Prediction:
Take Los Angeles. The Lakers are hot entering play tonight. While they did lose their last game 119-115 to the Rockets in Houston, the Lakers have still won seven out of their last 10 overall. They’ve also covered in eight out of their last 10 contests, which includes an ATS run of five straight.
As for the Mavs, they’ve now dropped five in a row both straight up and at the window as their injuries continue to mount. Kyrie Irving remains out since January 4 due to an illness, while Luka Doncic is out indefinitely with a calf injury. Dante Exum is also rehabbing his wrist after undergoing surgery in October and now Gafford is out for the foreseeable future as well.
Lakers vs. Mavericks Betting Prediction: Los Angeles Lakers -7.5