- What: NBA Cup Game
- When: November 26, 2024
- Who: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Phoenix Suns
- Time: 10:00 p.m. EST
- Where: Footprint Arena (Phoenix, AZ)
The Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns will play in a crucial NBA Cup game.
The Lakers have yet to lose an NBA Cup game, while the Suns are welcoming back Bradley Beal and Kevin Durant to their lineup for this matchup.
Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers might cover the 2.5-point spread, the dynamics of the game suggest that LeBron may not have the statistical output we’re used to seeing from him.
In the previous game against the Denver Nuggets, LeBron struggled to make an impact, finishing with just 18 points, six rebounds, and seven assists.
This performance raises questions about his current form, especially against a Suns team that has been solid defensively.
NBA Cup Game 3 on deck.
????: 7:00 PM PT
????: @SpectrumSN, NBA on TNT
????: Spectrum SportsNet+
????: ESPN LA 710/1330 KWKW pic.twitter.com/35q9204VAE— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) November 26, 2024
Moreover, LeBron’s usage rate has been fluctuating, especially with the presence of Anthony Davis and the emergence of Austin Reaves.
While Reaves has been a reliable option, averaging 17.4 points and 5.8 assists over his last eight games, it’s clear that LeBron’s role as the primary playmaker is being challenged.
This dilution of his responsibilities could lead to fewer opportunities for him to rack up those stats.
Additionally, the Lakers have been inconsistent this season, and their recent performances have shown that they struggle to maintain momentum.
Phoenix Suns
Phoenix has struggled recently, going just 1-5 without Durant and currently facing a five-game losing streak since Beal’s injury. This is especially notable considering the team started strong with an 8-1 record, highlighting how crucial both players are to the Suns’ success.
The Suns offense has struggled at times, primarily due to significant injuries to Beal and, most crucially, Durant. Without Durant, the Suns have averaged only 109 points per game.
NBA Cup: Game 3 ☄️
???? @Lakers
???? 8PM
???? @FootprintCNTR
???? @NBAonTNT
???? @AZSports | @az_mejor
????️ https://t.co/jNiQ4AECeG pic.twitter.com/G7ljRo40T4— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) November 26, 2024
However, when Durant is in the lineup, their average jumps to 114.4, which would place them 12th in the league. The Suns have allowed the 10th-most points per game at 114.5.
When we examine the recent performances, both teams have hit the over in 9 of their last 13 games combined and are among the bottom 11 in the league for defense.
In their most recent game, Phoenix allowed a season-high number of points, and they are likely to do the same in this matchup against a motivated Lakers team.
Lakers-Suns Best Bet
The Lakers boast impressive shooting statistics, sitting 4th in field goal percentage and 8th in 3-point percentage.
The Lakers have begun the season strong under head coach J.J. Redick, boasting a 7-2 record at home, though they’ve struggled on the road with a 3-4 record.
When playing as road underdogs, the Lakers have only managed to cover the spread in one of their three games. Similarly, the Suns have also performed better at home this season, with a 5-3 record.
I’m picking the Suns to hand the Lakers their first loss in the NBA Cup tonight. Kevin Durant returns to the Suns tonight and delivers a much needed win.
The Suns to cover the 2.5 point spread is the best bet in this one.
Welcome to Dice City Sports — where we provide premium, exclusive, up-to-date news and analysis surrounding the Las Vegas sports scene. Follow along on social media, and check back for new articles daily!
Tony Reyes is a sports betting analyst and reporter for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X @TonyParlay.
