Raptors Lakers prediction NBA odds picks bets

Lakers vs. Raptors game in L.A. is expected to be fast-paced and high-scoring, with both teams playing up-tempo offenses.

The NBA slate for Tuesday night may seem lackluster, but the Lakers vs. Raptors matchup in L.A. is catching my attention. The Raptors have shown a significant change in their playing style since their trade with the Knicks, with RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley joining the team. This has resulted in a 3-1 record for the Raptors, with an impressive average of 125 points per game. Their pace has increased by 2.5 possessions per game, and their scoring efficiency has improved by five points since the duo joined the team.

The Raptors are now running and gunning, with three 20-point-a-night scorers and the league's highest rate of transition scoring. On the other hand, the Lakers have a solid half-court defense but struggle with fast-paced play. Their aging roster can be exposed in the open court, making them vulnerable to the Raptors' up-tempo offense.

While the Raptors' defense is not particularly strong, the Lakers excel at scoring at the rim, ranking second in the percentage of shots taken at the rim and seventh in shooting at the rim. Both teams are proficient in transition scoring, with the Lakers ranking second in transition frequency and fifth in transition points per possession. This sets the stage for a fast-paced, highly efficient game with the potential for an extremely high score.

Based on the historical performance of these two teams, I expect the game to go over the closing total of 235 points. This bet is available at Caesars, and it's worth noting that four of the past five matchups between the Lakers and Raptors have exceeded the closing total. These teams have a track record of scoring against each other, making the Over an appealing bet for this game.