The Los Angeles Lakers enter the 2024-25 NBA season with renewed optimism and high expectations. The team has made significant changes, most notably bringing in JJ Redick as the new head coach. Redick, a former NBA sniper, is taking on his first head coaching job and has assembled an experienced staff to support him.

The Lakers are looking for big seasons from the star duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis. James has re-signed with the team for another two years following his impressive performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he won the MVP award. Despite being in the final stages of his career, James continues to defy age and expectations, especially considering his age. playing next to his son this season.

Anthony Davis remains an important piece for the Lakers and the team hopes he can stay healthy and dominate on both ends of the floor. Davis is seen as a candidate for the Defensive Player of the Year award with +1800 odds.

While oddsmakers peg the Lakers’ projected win total for the season at a modest 44.5, the team’s mix of experienced leadership, star power and exciting young talent has fans and players alike hoping for a successful season that exceeds those expectations.

Lakers Are Among the Favorites of the NBA

The Lakers’ projected win total of 44.5 leaves them behind many contenders in both conferences. by consensus Betpack.com Short list of sports betting sites, here’s how they compare to some other notable teams.

• Boston Celtics: 64.5 (Over -130, Under +100)
• Oklahoma City Thunder: 56.5 (Over -105, Under -115)
• Denver Nuggets: 56.5 (Over -105, Under -115)
• New York Knicks: 52.5 (Over -130, Under +100)
• Milwaukee Bucks: 52.5 (Over -130, Under +100)
• Los Angeles Lakers: 44.5 (over +100, under -130)

defending champion Celtics Lead the group with the highest predicted win total. At the same time, young powers like the Thunder and established rivals like the Nuggets are expected to finish well above the Lakers.

Western Conference Landscape

The Western Conference remains highly competitive, with many teams expected to finish ahead of the Lakers:

• Oklahoma City Thunder: 56.5 wins
• Denver Nuggets: 56.5 wins
• Minnesota Timberwolves: 52.5 wins
• Phoenix Suns: 46.5 wins
• Los Angeles Lakers: 44.5 wins

The Lakers’ total puts them in the middle tier of Western Conference teams, behind emerging contenders like the Thunder and established powers like the Nuggets(2)(3).

Betting Topics

It’s important to note the odds for bettors considering the Lakers’ win total:

• Over 44.5 wins: +100
• Win under 44.5: -130

This shows that the odds are in favor of the Lakers, falling short of 44.5 wins. Factors like team health, chemistry and a competitive Western Conference all play a role in this projection.

Last Word

While the Lakers’ projected 44.5 win total may seem modest compared to top contenders, it reflects the uncertainty surrounding the team entering the 2024-25 season. The health of stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis and the performance of their supporting cast will be crucial. Despite the low projection, the Lakers’ playoff experience and star power keep them in the spotlight as a potential threat in the Western Conference.

The Lakers’ win total presents an interesting opportunity for bettors. Those who are confident that the team can stay healthy and exceed expectations may find value in Over +100 odds. Conversely, those skeptical of the Lakers’ durability and depth may lean toward the Under at -130.

As always, punters must consider all factors, manage their money wisely and make informed decisions based on thorough analysis rather than emotion.