Ricky Dimon
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We have a seven-game slate in the NBA on Friday, headlined by a double-header on NBTV. It begins with Memphis Grizzlies hosting the Denver Nuggets prior to this showdown between the Los Angeles Lakers and Indiana Pacers. Both contests are getting the same game parlay treatment they deserve. Let’s take a look at the best such option for Lakers-Pacers, and be sure to check out our full game preview for picks on the side and total.
Pacers ML (+168)
Under 216.5 (-105)
LeBron James to score 30+ points (+116)
Part of the value in same game parlays, of course, is that all of its components can be correlated if you so choose. At the same time, however, plays that aren’t correlated drive up the overall payout of the parlay. That’s the case here, with only three legs—all of which we obviously think have a solid chance of happening—producing longer than 13-to-1 odds. A scoring surge by LeBron James doesn’t correlate with either a Pacers win or the under, but there is no reason why the visitors can’t get the job done in a low-scoring struggle even if LeBron reaches the 30-point mark.
Pacers ML (+168)
The all-star break came at a good time for the Pacers, who were just 1-5 in their last six games of the proverbial first half of the regular season. It didn’t necessarily come at a bad time for the Lakers, either, who aren’t exactly the youngest team in the business and could always use some time off. However, Los Angeles doesn’t have Anthony Davis back from injury yet, which obviously greatly improves the visitors’ chances for an upset. Not having Davis will certainly hurt L.A. against the Indiana frontcourt of Domantas Sabonis and Myles Turner. Marc Gasol is also out, which normally isn’t notable—except when Davis is also sidelined, Gasol would be useful. The Pacers were leaking oil heading into the break, but they have the talent to compete with anyone. With the Lakers in a weakened state, especially up front, there is value on Indiana’s money line.
Under 216.5 (-105)
The Lakers are also one of the most reliable under teams in the NBA this season, They are 16-26 O/U for the year. Their challenge is that the depth they thought they had is not producing like they thought it would, even with Montrezl Harrell in reserve. Without Davis, the Lakers scoring potential is limited; even not having Gasol is going to have an impact, too. His passing and unselfishness are part of what makes the Lakers starting unit go. Neither one of these teams is ever in a rush on offense. With Davis, the Lakers are one of the most effective defensive teams in the league; without him, they are still solid on that end of the floor.
LeBron James to score 30+ points (+116)
Sabonis is an outstanding offensive big, but you are never going to confuse him with Rudy Gobert on defense. In fact, the Pacers are one of the worst teams in the NBA at defending the paint (they allow the fifth-most points in the paint per game). Needless to say, that is not a recipe for success against LeBron—who can get to the basket whenever and however he wants. With a week off (other than playing in the All-Star Game), LeBron will be well-rested and ready to continue his bid for NBA MVP. He scored 38 points against the Suns in L.A.’s last game prior to the break.
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