Lakers Take Initiative vs. Grizzlies at 2023 NBA Playoffs

At the onset of the NBA betting postseason were plenty of doubts about the Los Angeles Lakers.  It is true that the Lakers had a sluggish regular season.  And that they showed a lack of depth needed for a serious championship run.  But Los Angeles closed the regular season strong.  Still, they were not expected to get past the Memphis Grizzlies in the opening round of the 2023 NBA Playoffs.  However, the Lakers took game one at Memphis.  As a result of the upset, doubters are becoming converts.

2023 NBA Playoffs – Western Conference First Round

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Memphis Grizzlies

CashBet Odds:  Lakers -230 vs. Grizzlies +190

Lakers vs. Grizzlies Series Schedule

Game 1: Lakers 128, Grizzlies 112
Game 2: Grizzlies vs. Lakers, Wednesday, April 19 (7:30 p.m., TNT)
Game 3: Lakers vs. Grizzlies, Saturday, April 22 (10 p.m., ESPN)
Game 4: Lakers vs. Grizzlies, Monday, April 24 (TBD)
Game 5: Grizzlies vs. Lakers, Wednesday, April 26 (TBD)*
Game 6: Lakers vs. Grizzlies, Friday, April 28 (TBD)*
Game 7: Grizzlies vs. Lakers, Sunday, April 30 (TBD)*

All times listed are Eastern. (* – if necessary) 

Lakers vs. Grizzlies CashBet Wagering Analysis  

On the whole, the Lakers are the NBA’s ultimate best sportsbook online Brand.  No team moves the needle at the betting window and on the TV screen like the Los Angeles Lakers.  And when the Lakers start winning, that is exacerbated.  Following their game-one win at Memphis, the casual sector is again enthralled with the Lakers.  And that means Wise Guys are evaluating the actual value of Los Angeles.  Memphis will get a better price.  But can the Grizzlies take advantage?

Lakers Show New Yet Old Look

The Lakers have covered seven five out of their last nine games.  Additionally, the Lakers have gone over the betting on NBA total in nine of its previous ten matchups.  As a result, the Lakers are 43-39 straight up, 40-41-1 against the spread, and 43-38-1 over/under the total.

Overall, Los Angeles ranks 6^th for scoring offense, 10^th for field goal percentage, 25^th for 3-point field goal percentage, 20^th for free throw percentage, and 6^th for offensive rebounding.  At the same time, the Lakers rank 20^th for scoring defense, 10^th for field goal percentage permitted, 2^nd for 3-point field goal percentage allowed, and 25^th for defensive rebounding.

LeBron James leads the Lakers with 28.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game.  Also, Anthony Davis adds 25.9 points and 12.5 rebounds per game.

Grizzlies Stumble at the Worst Time  

The Memphis Grizzlies have covered two out of their last nine games.  Additionally, the Grizzlies have gone over the total in three of its previous four matchups.  As a result, the Grizzlies are 51-31 straight up, 37-43-2 against the spread, and 38-43-1 over/under the pro basketball betting total

Overall, Memphis ranks 9^th for scoring offense, 16^th for field goal percentage, 23^rd for 3-point field goal percentage, 30^th for free throw percentage, and 2^nd for offensive rebounding.  At the same time, the Grizzlies rank 11^th for scoring defense, 1^st for field goal percentage permitted, 9^th for 3-point field goal percentage allowed, and 21^st for defensive rebounding.

Ja Morant leads the Grizzlies with 26.2 points and 8.1 assists per game.  Also, Desmon Bane adds 21.5 points per game.

Lakers Set the Tone In Game One  

Namely, Rui Hachimura, LeBron James, and the Los Angeles Lakers made an early statement in the wide-open Western Conference playoffs.  Hachimura scored a playoff career-best 29 points, including 21 in the second half.  And then James added 21 points and 11 rebounds.  Hence, the seventh-seeded Lakers beat the No. 2 seed Memphis Grizzlies 28-112 on Sunday in the opening game of their series.

Memphis had the NBA’s best home record at 35-6.  However, they have lost a home-court advantage against LA.  Game 2 is Wednesday at FedEx Forum.  Of major concern is the status of superstar Ja Morant, who aggravated a right-hand injury.

Lakers vs. Grizzlies CashBet Free Pick   

As mentioned earlier, the Lakers are playing their best basketball of the season.  By contrast, Memphis’ NBA gambling prospects are imploding.

Lakers vs. Grizzlies CashBet Best Bet

Los Angeles Lakers