LA Lakers (32-21) at Portland (23-32)
- When: Feb 20 2025, 10:00 PM
- Where: STADIUM_HERE, Portland, OR, USA
- TV: SportsNet LA
Game Preview
Lakers Favored by 3.0 | Total Set at 227.0
Los Angeles Lakers: Looking for a Bounce-Back Win
The Lakers head into Thursday’s matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers after a disappointing home loss to the struggling Charlotte Hornets. Despite leading by 13 points in the second half, Los Angeles faltered down the stretch and missed opportunities in the closing seconds. LeBron James had two attempts to send the game to overtime, but neither shot fell, leaving the Lakers with a frustrating 100-97 defeat.
James, battling a lingering foot issue, still managed to put up 26 points, 11 assists, and seven rebounds. However, his efficiency late in games has been inconsistent, and the Lakers have struggled to find rhythm offensively, especially with Luka Doncic still adjusting to his new team. Doncic shot just 5 of 18 from the field and 1 of 9 from beyond the arc while committing six turnovers in the loss to Charlotte. Through three games with the Lakers, he’s averaging just 14.7 points per game and shooting an abysmal 5 of 24 from deep.
Despite these early struggles, the Lakers remain confident in their ability to make a push toward a higher seed in the Western Conference. With a favorable matchup against a Portland team that has cooled off after a strong midseason surge, this could be an opportunity for Los Angeles to get back on track.
The Lakers have dominated this head-to-head matchup recently, winning five straight against the Trail Blazers, including both meetings this season. However, playing on the second night of a back-to-back raises concerns about fatigue and depth, particularly with key players logging heavy minutes.
Portland Trail Blazers: Trying to Find Their Groove Again
Portland was one of the hottest teams in the NBA before the All-Star break, winning 10 of 11 games at one point. However, they stumbled on a three-game road trip just before the break, falling to tougher competition and exposing some defensive vulnerabilities. Now back home, they look to reset and find consistency as they prepare for a tough seven-game road stretch following Saturday’s home game against Charlotte.
Coach Chauncey Billups emphasized the importance of playing tough defense, rebounding well, and pushing the tempo, but that formula will be tested without Deandre Ayton, who is sidelined for at least three more weeks with a calf injury. His absence leaves a significant gap in the paint, though rookie Donovan Clingan stepped up in his place, recording an impressive 17 points and 20 rebounds while battling against Nikola Jokic before the break.
Portland could also be dealing with additional depth issues, as Jerami Grant (knee), Scoot Henderson (ankle), and Robert Williams III (knee) are all questionable for Thursday’s game. If Grant and Henderson are limited or ruled out, the offensive burden will fall even heavier on Anfernee Simons and Clingan, who will need to continue to dominate the boards against a Lakers team with size and experience.
Betting Trends & Predictions
Lakers have won five straight against Portland.
Los Angeles is 2-0 against Portland this season.
Trail Blazers are dealing with significant injury concerns.
Lakers are playing on a back-to-back, which could lead to fatigue.
The Lakers enter this matchup as 3-point favorites, but there are concerns about their ability to close games. Doncic’s struggles with shooting and turnovers make it hard to trust them to dominate, even against an inconsistent Portland squad. However, the Blazers’ injuries, particularly in the frontcourt, could prove to be a major issue against a Lakers team that thrives on getting inside and drawing fouls.
This game could come down to execution in the fourth quarter, and despite their issues against Charlotte, the Lakers have the firepower to pull away late and cover the spread. The total at 227.0 suggests an uptempo game, but both teams have been inconsistent offensively, making the under a solid play as well.
Best Bets:
Lakers -3.0 (Expect a bounce-back performance, especially with Portland’s injuries.)
Under 227.0 (Both teams struggling with offensive consistency and Lakers on a back-to-back.)
Lakers 2H -1.5 (Los Angeles should take control in the second half as Portland’s depth is tested.)
Expect the Lakers to control the glass and force Portland into tough shots, securing a much-needed win on the road.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
