LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers) Under 9.5 Assists (+102)

Odds available at fanduel at time of publishing

As the Lakers head into Dallas, all eyes will be on LeBron James, but a closer look at his recent performances suggests a different narrative. Averaging just 7 assists in his last five away games, LeBron seems to be taking a more conservative approach on the road. The Mavericks' defense, particularly against playmaking forwards, has stifled his assist numbers, allowing only 6 dimes per game to LeBron in their previous matchups.With an overall hit rate of 16 out of his last 19 games falling below that 9.5 mark, it's clear he's not hitting those elite assist numbers lately, especially away from home. The Mavericks will likely focus on limiting his playmaking opportunities, making the Under a savvy play here. Given the trends and his expected stat value of just under 7 assists, the Under 9.5 seems like a smart bet for this matchup.

LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers) Under 35.5 Points + Assists (-111)

Odds available at draftkings at time of publishing

As the Lakers head to Dallas, all eyes will be on LeBron James, but I see a compelling case for taking the under on his combined points and assists at 35.5. In his last five games, he's averaging just 17 points and 7.4 assists, a stark contrast to the lofty expectations surrounding him. On the road, those numbers dip to 15.8 points and 7 assists, which suggests a struggle against tough defenses like the Mavericks'. Historically, LeBron has averaged 20.6 points against Dallas, but away from home, that jumps to 26.4, hinting at the challenge of performing under pressure. With an impressive 20-for-20 hit rate in his last 20 games for the under, it's clear he's been working smarter, not harder. This matchup might just see him lean more towards facilitating than scoring, making the under a savvy play.

Kobe Brown (Indiana Pacers) Under 20.5 Points + Rebounds + Assists (-114)

Odds available at fanduel at time of publishing

As the Indiana Pacers gear up to face the Cleveland Cavaliers, all eyes should be on Kobe Brown, particularly for an Under on his combined points, rebounds, and assists set at 20.5. Brown's recent performance shows he's been averaging just 11.6 points, 5 rebounds, and 3.8 assists over his last five games. When playing away, those numbers dip slightly, with only 12 points and a mere 3.2 assists. Furthermore, his history against the Cavaliers is stark; he's averaged just 4.3 points and virtually no rebounds or assists in their recent matchups. In fact, away from home, his contributions dwindle even more, highlighting his struggles against this defense. With a hit rate of 14 out of his last 17 games landing below this mark, it's a compelling play to back the Under here, especially considering the Cavs' ability to stifle opposing offenses.

Luke Kennard (Los Angeles Lakers) Under 17.5 Points + Assists (-105)

Odds available at draftkings at time of publishing

As the Mavericks gear up to host the Lakers, Luke Kennard finds himself in a tough spot. Averaging just 8.2 points and 1.8 assists over his last five games, his recent form paints a clear picture: he's not lighting up the scoreboard. On the road, those numbers dip even further to 6.8 points and 1.4 assists. Against the Lakers, Kennard has struggled, with an average of 4.6 points in their last matchup away from home. His overall hit rate for the last 14 games indicates he's only cleared this combined total once in the last 14 tries, and impressively, he's hit the under in all eight of his recent away games. With the Mavericks' defensive focus likely aimed elsewhere, it's hard to see Kennard surpassing that 17.5 mark. Taking the under feels like a savvy move in this matchup.

Jake LaRavia (Los Angeles Lakers) Under 15.5 Points + Assists (-110)

Odds available at draftkings at time of publishing

When looking at Jake LaRavia's recent performances, betting the Under on his combined points and assists at 15.5 seems like a savvy play. Over the last five games, he's averaged a mere 6 points and 1 assist, and even when facing the Lakers, he's only managed 6.8 points overall, which drops to 5.4 when playing away. LaRavia's recent form is telling-he's hit the Under in all of his last 18 outings, including a perfect 8-for-8 on the road. The Mavericks' matchup against a tough Lakers defense only adds to the challenge. With an expected stat value of just 8, he'll need a substantial uptick to breach that 15.5 mark. Given his current trends and the heavy odds stacked against him, placing your chips on the Under feels like a calculated move in this high-stakes matchup.

LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers) Under 43.5 Points + Rebounds + Assists (-114)

Odds available at fanduel at time of publishing

As the Lakers face off against the Mavericks, it's hard not to consider the under on LeBron James' combined points, rebounds, and assists at 43.5. Sure, LeBron has been a force, but recent performances tell a different story. Over his last five games, he's averaging just 17 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 7.4 assists, falling short of this total more often than not. When traveling, those numbers dip even further; he's averaging 15.8 points and 9 boards away from home. Plus, against the Mavericks specifically, his numbers trend lower, with only 20.6 points on average against them, and even less on the road. With a consistent hit rate of 7/7 over the last few games, it's evident that LeBron is in a different rhythm lately. Expect him to stay under the radar tonight, making the under a solid play.

See All Our Picks

You're viewing a preview. Subscribe today to unlock the full article and gain access to all our expert insights and best bets - every single day.

Get Bet Better Pro