Los Angeles Lakers vs
Portland Trail BlazersPredictions & Preview

Los Angeles Lakers Favored Over Portland Trail Blazers in Resumed NBA Season Matchup

Following the All-Star break, the 2024-25 NBA season resumes with a Western Conference matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday, February 20th. The Lakers are seeking their sixth consecutive win against Portland this season. Los Angeles opens as the -4.5 favorite in betting lines, with no movement observed thus far. Stay tuned for our Lakers vs. Trail Blazers prediction and other NBA picks for Thursday night.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Lakers -188 | Trail Blazers +159
• Spread: Lakers -4.5 (-110) | Trail Blazers +4.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 226 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Los Angeles will win straight-up is 65%.

Los Angeles vs Portland Stats

Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers were looking to rebound from a recent defeat to the Utah Jazz, ending their winning streak. Despite a strong performance from LeBron James, the Lakers struggled defensively and were outscored in the paint. The team currently ranks fifth in the Western Conference with solid offensive efficiency numbers but needs to improve defensively. Offensively, the Lakers rank in the top 15 in scoring and shooting percentages, while defensively they allow a moderate field goal percentage and struggle with free throws. Overall, their statistics reflect a team with room for improvement on both ends of the court.

Portland Trail Blazers Analysis

The Portland Trail Blazers recently entered the All-Star break on a three-game losing streak, dropping consecutive road games against the Denver Nuggets after previously losing to the Minnesota Timberwolves. In their 29-point loss against the Nuggets, the Blazers allowed their opponents to make a high percentage of field goals. Rookie center Donovan Clingan had an impressive performance with a 17-point, 20-rebound double-double in one of the losses. The team is currently struggling defensively, allowing an average of 116.5 points per game. Despite their offensive struggles, the Trail Blazers have a power ranking of 14 and are ranked 25th in scoring offense in the league. Los Angeles recently went 0-3 against Portland in their last matchups. The Trail Blazers have room for improvement in their shooting percentages and turnovers on both offense and defense.

Injury-stricken Trail Blazers face uphill battle against Lakers: LeBron James' availability key to Wednesday's matchup

The Portland Trail Blazers have faced ongoing challenges with injuries throughout the season. Despite the potential return of Jerami Grant and Scoot Henderson against the Los Angeles Lakers, Deandre Ayton is expected to remain sidelined for several more weeks. The Lakers are in a period of adjustment following the trade involving Luka Doncic, leaving them lacking in center depth. However, Los Angeles excels in scoring and three-point shooting. It is advised to closely monitor the injury report, especially regarding LeBron James' availability for Wednesday's game against the Charlotte Hornets. Without Ayton, the Trail Blazers may struggle to exploit the Lakers' weaknesses. As a result, favorable odds are placed on the Lakers, despite potential fatigue from playing on the second night of a back-to-back. Historically, the Lakers have dominated recent matchups with the Trail Blazers, winning all four previous meetings both straight up and against the spread.

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