San Antonio (28-38) at LA Lakers (41-25)
- When: Mar 17 2025, 10:30 PM
- Where: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- TV: SportsNet LA
San Antonio Spurs vs. Los Angeles Lakers – Western Conference Battle
Lakers favored by 8.5 | Total: 229.0
The Los Angeles Lakers return to action Monday night, looking to build off Sunday’s win as they host a shorthanded San Antonio Spurs squad at Crypto.com Arena. The Lakers (41-25) are trying to secure a strong playoff position, while the Spurs (28-38) are simply looking to stay competitive without their top stars.
These teams were originally scheduled to meet on Jan. 11, but the game was postponed due to wildfires in the Los Angeles area. The Lakers lead the season series 2-1, and this matchup presents an opportunity to further solidify their postseason push.
Los Angeles Lakers Outlook
Record: 41-25 (5th in West) | Last Game: 107-96 win vs. Suns
The Lakers snapped a four-game losing streak with a convincing win over Phoenix on Sunday, despite being without LeBron James (groin) and Rui Hachimura (knee). Luka Doncic took over, dropping 33 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists, while Austin Reaves added 28 points in one of his best performances of the season.
Los Angeles needs every win as they hold onto the No. 5 seed in the West, just 2.5 games ahead of the play-in line. With a five-game homestand underway, they have an opportunity to climb the standings.
The Lakers also got a much-needed boost from Jaxson Hayes, who returned after missing four games with a knee injury and posted 19 points with six rebounds.
“Just his energy, his effort, his presence in the pocket, a lob threat, gives Luka (space),” Reaves said after the game.
While the Lakers took care of business against Phoenix, their health remains a concern. James and Hachimura remain day-to-day, and getting their full roster in sync before the playoffs is a top priority.
Key Lakers Player Props to Watch
Luka Doncic Over 32.5 Points: He has fully taken over as the team’s offensive leader, especially with LeBron sidelined.
Austin Reaves 2.5+ Made Threes: Coming off a hot shooting night, expect him to fire from deep.
Jaxson Hayes Over 6.5 Rebounds: With increased minutes, he should be active on the boards.
San Antonio Spurs Outlook
Record: 28-38 (13th in West) | Last Game: 119-115 win vs. Pelicans
The Spurs are dealing with significant losses, as they will play the rest of the season without Victor Wembanyama (blood clot) and De’Aaron Fox (finger surgery). Additionally, head coach Gregg Popovich has missed most of the season due to health issues, leaving the Spurs in full rebuild mode.
San Antonio has played two games without Fox, showing mixed results. They were embarrassed by Charlotte in a 145-118 loss, but responded with a gritty 119-115 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday.
In that win, Devin Vassell led the way with 22 points, while Keldon Johnson added 19 off the bench. Vassell struggled from the field but made 4 of 9 threes, contributing in multiple ways with five rebounds and three steals.
“It’s not a great night shooting the basketball, but just being able to affect the game in other ways—whether it’s rebounding, steals, or being an encouraging teammate—that’s something I try to bring every game,” Vassell said.
San Antonio heavily relied on its bench, with four of their seven double-digit scorers coming off the bench. Rookie Stephon Castle, now starting in Fox’s absence, showed promise with 17 points and seven assists but struggled from beyond the arc (0-for-5 from three).
The Spurs continue to hold onto a wild card spot, but with injuries piling up and their offense struggling, this could be another tough test against a surging Lakers squad.
Key Spurs Player Props to Watch
Devin Vassell Over 17.5 Points: With Fox out, he will continue to lead the offense.
Keldon Johnson Over 17.5 Points + Rebounds: One of San Antonio’s most consistent contributors off the bench.
Stephon Castle Over 4.5 Assists: He’s taken over primary playmaking duties in Fox’s absence.
Final Prediction & Betting Analysis
The Lakers are getting healthier, and with Doncic running the show, they should take care of business against an undermanned Spurs squad. San Antonio has struggled defensively, allowing 145 points to Charlotte, and without Wembanyama and Fox, their offense lacks firepower.
Expect the Lakers to dictate the tempo and cruise to a double-digit win.
Final Score Prediction: Lakers 118, Spurs 104
Best Bet: Lakers -8.5
Lean: Under 229.0 (San Antonio’s lack of scoring depth and LA’s improving defense should keep this one under)
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
