Lakers vs. Mavericks Picks and Prediction – 4/9/2025

Los Angeles Lakers (48-30) vs. Dallas Mavericks (38-41)
Time: 7:30 PM ET
Location: American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX
TV: ESPN

Previous Games:

  • Lakers: Coming off a 136-120 loss vs. OKC

  • Mavericks: Lost 135-104 vs. Clippers

Head-to-Head:

The season series is split, but the Mavericks enter this one desperate to secure a spot in the Play-In Tournament, while the Lakers are on the second night of a road back-to-back after getting shredded by OKC. Fatigue and motivation are key factors tilting the edge toward Dallas.

Los Angeles Lakers Breakdown:

The Lakers are just 5-5 in their last 10 games, allowing a high 119.3 points per game while only grabbing 40.7 rebounds on average. Their road record remains underwhelming, and last night’s defensive performance was especially poor. LeBron James continues to lead the charge with 28 points and 7 rebounds last night, but defensive lapses and short rest may hurt them here. Austin Reaves added 23 points and has been a strong secondary scorer. The status of Rui Hachimura (knee) remains uncertain, limiting LA's depth in the frontcourt.

Key Players:

  • LeBron James: 28 PTS, 7 REB vs. OKC

  • Austin Reaves: 23 PTS, 5 AST vs. OKC

Dallas Mavericks Breakdown:

Dallas has also gone 5-5 over their last 10, but they’ve been more efficient offensively at home, shooting 50.1% from the field. Despite poor defense (allowing 117.2 PPG), their strong shooting and rebounding edge give them an advantage. Luka Doncic remains the focal point with 28.1 PPG, 7.0 REB, 7.0 AST, and he’ll look to expose a tired LA defense. The Mavs are 4 games over .500 at home and still battling to stay in the Play-In mix, meaning urgency is high.

Key Players:

  • Luka Doncic: 28.1 PPG, 7.0 REB, 7.0 AST

  • Kai Jones: 18 PTS, 7 REB vs. Clippers

  • Klay Thompson: 14 PTS, 2.4 3PM (36.4%)

Betting Trends:

Los Angeles Lakers:

  • 5-6 SU in their last 11 games

  • 4-7 ATS in their last 11

  • Over is 7-4 in their last 11 games

Dallas Mavericks:

  • 5-5 SU in their last 10 games

  • 5-5 ATS in their last 10

  • Over is 7-3 in their last 10 games

Exact Score Prediction:

Dallas Mavericks 121 – Los Angeles Lakers 117

Our Best Bet:

Dallas Mavericks ML (+135)

The Mavericks are at home, well-rested, and fighting to lock in a Play-In spot. The Lakers are on a back-to-back, coming off a game where they gave up 136 points, and their defense has been unreliable all season, especially on the road. Luka Doncic is primed for a big night, and with LA’s questionable depth and fatigue factor, this sets up perfectly for a motivated Dallas squad to pull off the home win.

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