Lakers vs. Clippers prediction, odds, spread, line: 2022 NBA picks, Oct. 20 best bets from proven model
A Western Conference battle takes place on Thursday night as the Los Angeles Clippers (0-0) and the Los Angeles Lakers (0-1) collide in a battle for bragging rights in L.A. The Clippers have dominated the series as of late, winning seven straight matchups against the Lakers. Kawhi Leonard is set to return to action and join forces with Paul George for the Clippers. Meanwhile, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and the Lakers dropped their season opener to the Golden State Warriors 123-109.
Tip-off is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Caesars Sportsbook lists the Clippers as 5.5-point favorites in the latest Clippers vs. Lakers odds. The over/under for total points is set at 225.5. Before making any Lakers vs. Clippers picks, you'll want to see the NBA predictions and betting advice from the proven computer model at SportsLine.
The SportsLine Projection Model simulates every NBA game 10,000 times and has returned well over $10,000 in profit for $100 players on its top-rated NBA picks over the past four seasons. The model went a stunning 88-60 on all top-rated NBA picks last season, returning more than $2,100. Anyone following it has seen huge returns.
Now, the model has set its sights on Lakers vs. Clippers and locked in its NBA predictions. You can head to SportsLine to see its picks. Here are several NBA betting lines and trends for Clippers vs. Lakers:
- Lakers vs. Clippers spread: Clippers -5.5
- Lakers vs. Clippers over/under: 225.5 points
- Lakers vs. Clippers money line: Clippers -225, Lakers +185
- LAC: Clippers are 10-1 ATS in the last 11 meetings in Los Angeles
- LAL: Over is 4-0 in Lakers' last four Thursday games
- Lakers vs. Clippers picks: See picks at SportsLine
Why the Lakers can cover
James is still one of the best players in the league at 37. James is an all-around impact player for Los Angeles. The 18-time All-Star selection knows how to find the open man and deliver a perfect pass. James has an impeccable offensive game plan that involves a masterful post-game with a smooth jumper. In the season opener, he logged a team-high 31 points with 14 rebounds and eight assists.
Davis is a dominant two-way presence for Los Angeles. Davis shows a real ability to consistently block and alter shots in the paint due to his quickness and length. The Kentucky product is an effective scorer from mid-range and down low. On Tuesday, he finished with 27 points, six rebounds and four steals.
Why the Clippers can cover
Forward Norman Powell is a gritty and athletic wing in the frontcourt. Powell plays superb defense with his long wingspan that allows him to poke the ball free and alter shots. The UCLA product owns good leaping skills with a smooth-looking jumper. Last season, he averaged 19 points, 3.2 rebounds, and shot 42 percent from downtown.
Marcus Morris Sr. can play either forward spot with ease. Morris Sr. can score in many different ways including a nice back-to-the-basket game. The Kansas product is able to finish strong at the rim with either hand. He's also another player who can stretch the floor. During the 2021-22 campaign, he averaged 15.4 points and 4.4 rebounds while shooting 37 percent from 3-point land.
How to make Clippers vs. Lakers picks
SportsLine's model is leaning Under on the total, projecting 221 total points. It also says one side of the spread hits more than 50% of simulations. You can only see the pick at SportsLine.
