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LA Lakers (26-17) at Dallas (19-26)
- When: Jan 24 2026, 8:30 PM
- Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- TV: ABC
LA Lakers vs Dallas Preview & Prediction
Spread: LA Lakers -4.0
Moneyline: LA Lakers (-170)
Total: 234.0
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Breakdown
The Lakers continue a long road trip with another high profile matchup, and this one comes with extra attention as Luka Doncic steps back into Dallas wearing Los Angeles colors. While the narrative is juicy, the on court product has been inconsistent. Los Angeles has dropped six of its last nine games and continues to struggle closing out opponents.
Thursday’s loss to the Clippers followed a familiar script. Slow ball movement early put the Lakers in a hole, and even a late push could not fully erase it. When this offense stalls, it becomes isolation heavy and predictable, which makes covering spreads difficult despite elite talent on the floor.
The upside for Los Angeles is star power. Doncic and LeBron James can tilt games quickly when the pace picks up. If the Lakers commit to sharing the ball and attacking early in possessions, they can stress Dallas defensively. As a small road favorite, this is a spot where Los Angeles needs urgency from the opening tip, not another second half rally attempt.
Lakers Player Prop Pick: Luka Doncic over 8.5 assists
Dallas is likely to send extra help, creating passing lanes for Luka throughout the game.
Dallas Mavericks Betting Breakdown
Dallas enters this matchup playing its best basketball of the season. A four game winning streak has been fueled by strong fourth quarter execution, something that was missing earlier in the year. The win over Golden State was a statement, showing this young roster can close against quality competition.
The Mavericks have embraced a balanced approach. Young contributors are growing quickly, and the offense has flowed with confidence. Dallas has also been more aggressive defensively late in games, forcing turnovers and turning stops into quick points.
Home court matters here. Dallas plays faster and freer in its own building, and that energy could be amplified with Doncic returning as an opponent. If the Mavericks keep this game close entering the fourth quarter, their recent momentum gives them a real chance to win outright.
Mavericks Player Prop Pick: Cooper Flagg over 5.5 rebounds
Flagg has been active on the glass and should see plenty of opportunities against a Lakers team that can lapse defensively.
NBA Final Score & Expert Prediction
This line suggests a close, high scoring game, and that feels accurate. Dallas is playing with confidence, while Los Angeles is still searching for consistency. The Mavericks’ recent closing ability combined with home court makes them live in this spot.
The total leans over with both teams capable of scoring in bunches, especially if the pace stays high. Dallas has value catching points and moneyline at home, while Los Angeles must prove it can deliver a full four quarter effort.
Final Score: Mavericks 121, Lakers 118
Lean: Dallas ML (+145)
Total: Over 234.0
- NBA Basketball Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
