GST Staff

Pistons vs. Lakers Prediction, Odds, Best Prop Bets December 23, 2024

Lakers Riding Hot Streak, Aim to Tame Struggling Pistons

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The Los Angeles Lakers (16-12) will host the Detroit Pistons (12-17) in a matchup of teams trending in opposite directions. The Lakers are riding a three-game winning streak and have won 4 of their last 5, while the Pistons snapped a two-game skid with a victory in their last outing.

Over the full season, the Lakers have been outscoring opponents by a shade under 3 points per game, averaging 111.1 points while allowing 113.7. They've been especially impressive on the offensive glass, grabbing nearly 42 rebounds to control the boards. However, their 46.9% shooting from the field leaves room for improvement.

The Pistons, meanwhile, have been outscored by 3 points per contest while struggling to get stops, surrendering 114.6 points per game. They've found more success from beyond the arc, hitting 36.3% of their threes, but have been plagued by turnovers, coughing it up over 15 times per night.

In their last 5 games, the Lakers have elevated their play on both ends, boosting their scoring to 105.2 points while limiting opponents to just 100.8 per contest. They've also crashed the boards with authority, grabbing a whopping 47.4 rebounds per game. The Pistons, conversely, have been leaky on defense, surrendering 121.8 points over this stretch despite scoring 119.2 themselves.

With the Lakers rounding into form and the Pistons struggling to string together consistent performances, Los Angeles will look to ride their momentum and extend their winning streak on their home floor. But Detroit's ability to get hot from deep could keep this one competitive if the Lakers' defense has a lapse.