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LA Lakers (34-23) at Phoenix (33-26)
- When: Feb 26 2026, 9:00 PM
- Where: Mortgage Matchup Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- TV: SportsNet LA
LA Lakers vs Phoenix Preview & Prediction
Spread: LA Lakers -5.5
Moneyline: LA Lakers (-210)
Total: 221.0
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Preview
The Lakers walk into Phoenix laying 5.5 points with a 221.0 total, and that number reflects both talent and volatility. At 34-23, Los Angeles currently holds the sixth seed in the West, sitting two games ahead of the Suns. That cushion matters, but the recent form has been uneven.
L.A. dropped a 110-109 heartbreaker to Orlando after a chaotic final possession. Luka Doncic finished with 22 points and 15 assists but shot just 8-of-24 from the field. The late-game execution fell apart, with LeBron James forced into an off-balance attempt that never had a chance. That sequence tells you everything about this team right now — capable, but inconsistent.
LeBron remains the stabilizer. Even when the offense bogs down, his ability to control tempo and attack mismatches keeps them competitive. Against a Phoenix defense struggling to find rhythm, this is a get-right opportunity. The Lakers’ issue hasn’t been talent; it’s been closing and shot selection.
With Phoenix shorthanded and struggling offensively, the spread suggests L.A.’s defensive pressure could dictate pace. If the Lakers lock in on the perimeter and push in transition, they can create separation.
Player Prop: LeBron James Over 18.5 Points
In games with playoff implications and defensive lapses on the other side, LeBron typically elevates his scoring aggression. Expect assertiveness early and steady usage throughout.
Phoenix Suns Betting Preview
The Suns are in offensive quicksand. Back-to-back low outputs — 92 and 81 points — highlight how much they miss Devin Booker (24.7 ppg) and Dillon Brooks (20.9 ppg). Over the last 10 games, Phoenix is shooting just 41 percent from the field and under 40 percent in four straight.
At 33-26, they’re clinging to seventh in the West. They’ve lost four of five and seven of 10. The rhythm simply isn’t there. Jalen Green is averaging 17 points in his recent starts but shooting 33.7 percent. Without consistent shot creation, possessions stall late in the clock.
Grayson Allen’s role becomes critical in this matchup. With defensive attention shifting to the primary ball handlers, Allen’s spacing and perimeter shooting can swing momentum. If Phoenix is going to cover as a home underdog, they must rediscover efficiency from three and avoid extended scoring droughts.
The total at 221.0 reflects two teams not operating at peak offensive flow. If this turns into a half-court grind, that benefits the under.
Player Prop: Grayson Allen Over 3.5 Made Three-Pointers
Phoenix needs perimeter production. Allen’s catch-and-shoot volume should be there, especially if the Lakers collapse into the paint.
NBA Final Score & Expert Prediction
Los Angeles has the healthier roster and more reliable late-game shot creation. Phoenix’s recent scoring struggles and shooting inefficiency make it difficult to trust them in a spread scenario.
Expect a controlled pace, defensive emphasis and L.A.’s experience closing it out.
Final Score: Lakers 112, Suns 104
Lean: LA Lakers -5.5
Total: Under 221.0
- NBA Basketball Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
