Lakers vs Magic Monday Prediction | NBA Picks Today, Best Bets
John Canady
Host · Writer
The Los Angeles Lakers are set for a Monday night showdown with the Orlando Magic. Los Angeles enters this matchup looking to get back in the win column as they inch closer to a fully healthy roster with the recent return of LeBron James. Meanwhile, the Magic hope to put their inconsistencies in the past as they continue to fight for positioning in the Eastern Conference standings as the postseason looms.
Lakers vs Magic
- Location: Kia Center – Orlando, Florida
- Where to Watch: NBA TV
- Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
- Spread: Lakers -4 | Total: 215
- Moneyline: Lakers -176 | Magic +146
Please be aware that betting odds may change after the publication of this article.
Lakers vs Magic Best Bet: Magic ML +146
After an impressive run to the playoffs last year, the Magic entered this season with high expectations. However, between the injury bug and inconsistencies, Orlando finds themselves in the play-in leading up to this matchup with the Lakers. With a 4-6 record in their last ten games, it’s hard to put faith in the Magic getting the job done. However, Los Angeles is in the same situation as Orlando, with a record of 4-6 in their last ten games. Considering that the Magic will have the home fans behind them, I like the odds that Jamahl Mosley’s squad can find a winning strategy against L.A. this time, especially considering that they won the first matchup against the Lakers earlier this season.
Lakers vs Magic Best Total Bet: Under 215
Mosley’s squad is mainly known for playing gritty defense, but this season, Orlando has struggled on that end of the floor, primarily the reason for their struggles. In addition, the Magic average a league-worst 104.8 points per game on the season. Although the Lakers have two of the best scorers in the league at their disposal, it wouldn’t be a shock to see Orlando turn this game into a defensive matchup if they have any chance of winning. A final score of 107-103 seems realistic in this battle.
Lakers Best Player Bet: Luka Doncic 30+ Points +114
Luka Doncic has been on a tear as he gets more comfortable in JJ Redick’s system. With James back on the court, the Slovenian superstar will have less attention on him by the opposing defense, which will bode well for him to put together a strong night offensively. With 30+ points in each of his last two games and three of his previous four, give me the odds that Doncic will put together another strong performance.
Magic Best Player Bet: Paolo Banchero 3+ Threes Made +168
Paolo Banchero has been one of the few bright spots for the Magic this season, averaging a career-high nearly across the board with 25.4 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 4.8 assists. The Duke product is not only a nightmare to defend due to his ability to handle the ball like a guard at nearly seven feet, but he’s also an underrated shooter. Banchero’s confidence in his jumper has grown over the team’s recent stretch, and it’s shown as he’s knocked down 3+ threes in each of the team’s last three games. Assuming this trend stays the same, I like the odds that the 22-year-old finishes the night with 3+ triples once again.
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