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Los Angeles Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks: NBA Preview
From a tactical standpoint, the primary area to monitor will be the battle from beyond the arc. The Lakers enter this game having shot above 40% from three-point range in back-to-back games, with their perimeter efficiency notably improved since acquiring Doncic—whose shot creation and distribution have made a marked impact.
by Malachi
Player News
Out: J. Hardy, M. Kleber
Questionable: R. Hachimura, B. James. D. Exum
Market
Opening: -5 LAL / 228
Current: -5 LAL / 230.5
Recent Form
LAL L10: 5-5 SU / 4-5-1 ATS / 7-3 OU
DAL L10: 5-5 SU / 5-5 ATS / 6-3-1 OU
Trends
LAL: 8-5 ATS on no rest / 32-17 ATS in conference games
DAL: 6-10 SU as home underdogs / 21-17 to the under in home games
Analysis
The Dallas Mavericks host the Los Angeles Lakers in a highly anticipated matchup filled with narrative intrigue, particularly due to the blockbuster trade that sent star guard Luka Doncic to the Lakers in exchange for center Anthony Davis just over a month ago. Since the deal, the two franchises have trended in contrasting directions—though it's worth noting that Dallas has been significantly impacted by a spate of injuries, including a lengthy absence from Davis himself. These teams have faced off once since the trade, with the Lakers prevailing 107-99 in Los Angeles.
The season series currently stands level at 1-1, with tonight's contest serving as the final regular-season meeting between the two sides. Of note, in the most recent encounter, the Mavericks had the services of Kyrie Irving, who delivered a 35-point performance. His absence tonight could pose a substantial challenge for Dallas, as they have struggled to replace his scoring output. That said, Anthony Davis—who missed the previous game—will be active this evening. His two-way dominance has significantly elevated the Mavericks, particularly on the defensive end, since returning to the lineup.
From a tactical standpoint, the primary area to monitor will be the battle from beyond the arc. The Lakers enter this game having shot above 40% from three-point range in back-to-back games, with their perimeter efficiency notably improved since acquiring Doncic—whose shot creation and distribution have made a marked impact. Defensively, the Mavericks rank in the bottom 10 in opponent three-point shooting percentage but compensate well by limiting volume, sitting top 7 in both opponent threes made and attempted per game. If they can take advantage of a potentially fatigued Lakers squad and restrict their perimeter opportunities, they will be well-positioned to control the outcome.
It’s also important to note that Dallas enters this contest with a two-day rest advantage, while the Lakers are playing the second night of a back-to-back following a blowout loss to the Thunder. Although Los Angeles has performed admirably in no-rest situations this season, there remains a possibility that key players could be rested. Monitoring the injury report ahead of tip-off will be essential.