LA Lakers (48-31) at Dallas (38-41)
- When: Apr 9 2025, 7:30 PM
- Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- TV: ESPN
Lakers vs Mavericks – NBA Prediction, Odds & Betting Analysis
Spread: LA Lakers -3.5 | Total: 229.0
The spotlight will be on Dallas Wednesday night as the Mavericks host the Los Angeles Lakers in one of the most emotional matchups of the season. Los Angeles enters as the 3.5-point favorite, with the total sitting at 229.0 — and for good reason.
Lakers Outlook
L.A. (48-31) is third in the Western Conference and continues to gain traction with Luka Doncic now orchestrating the offense. Doncic returns to Dallas for the first time since being traded in February, adding a layer of intensity to this already meaningful contest. The Lakers have gone 2-1 on their current road trip and need two wins in their final three games to lock in the No. 3 seed.
Doncic, averaging 27.1 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.6 assists since the trade, will be under the microscope in this emotional reunion. LeBron James, always steady, has provided leadership through this critical stretch, and the Lakers will likely lean heavily on their core duo in what should be a tightly contested game. Expect a locked-in effort from the purple and gold, especially on defense, after allowing 136 points in their last outing.
Mavericks Outlook
Dallas (38-41) is hanging on to the final play-in spot in the West and desperately needs a win to avoid slipping out of the postseason picture. While they’ve stumbled recently — including back-to-back blowout losses to the Clippers — the return of Anthony Davis gives them a much-needed boost. Since joining the Mavs, Davis has averaged 20.6 points per game but has played in just seven contests due to injury. He’s listed as probable for this one.
The Mavericks are just 5-2 with Davis in the lineup, but they’ll need his presence on both ends to have a shot at slowing down the high-powered Lakers. Davis will be motivated to prove himself against his former team, although he’s publicly downplayed any personal emotion tied to the matchup.
Betting Prediction
With so much on the line for both sides, expect a playoff-style intensity. The Lakers have shown more consistency on both ends and have the star power to take over late, especially with Doncic looking to make a statement in his Dallas return. Dallas’ defense remains a concern, and they’ve struggled to contain elite perimeter scorers.
The total of 229.0 feels a bit high considering the pressure and possible nerves involved, particularly early on. Look for the pace to slow in stretches, and defense to step up in the second half.
Final Score Prediction: Lakers 114, Mavericks 108
Best Bets:
Spread: Lakers -3.5
Total: Under 229.0
Luka Doncic Over 30.5 Points
Anthony Davis Over 9.5 Rebounds
The Lakers should grind out a win behind strong showings from their stars, while Dallas continues to battle for playoff survival.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
