Lakers vs 76ers Betting Odds – Lakers Will Regain Confidence with Win Over Philly

The Lakers vs 76ers betting odds pits the NBA champs against one of the feeble teams in the East. The Lakers shouldn’t have many problems against Philadelphia, unless they take the night off for lazy purposes. Otherwise, expect an easy Lakers win.

The Storyline: Lakers vs 76ers Betting Odds
Fresh off a humbling defeat to the Dallas Mavericks, the number one in Pacific Los Angeles Lakers look to get back on the right track against the number three team in the Atlantic division, the Philadelphia 76ers. In their last meeting, Kobe led the Lakers to a 99-91 win over the 76ers in their home of Philadelphia - a city where Bryant has consistently performed well (it also happens to be his hometown - coincidence?) Kobe will have to count on a quality performance in his adopted city of Los Angeles on Friday. Allen Iverson for his part, posted 23 points in the two teams last meeting. Will his absence on Friday spell doom for the 76ers?

Offensive Matchups: Lakers vs 76ers Betting Odds
Although Kobe hasn't looked quite 100% since his return, Lamar Odom stepped up in the Lakers last game, leading the team with 21 points in their losing effort against the Mavericks. Odom has been inconsistent though, posting just five points in the game before that, despite amassing similar game time. As Kobe continues to heal, we can expect him to get back to form, and what better way than an emphatic performance against a team that shouldn't pose the dynamo Lakers too many problems. Also expect a motivated Pau Gasol. After posting numbers way below his average in Wednesday's game against Dallas, look for Gasol to try to make a statement along with Kobe in terms of minutes and points.

Betting Edge: Lakers

Defensive Matchups: Lakers vs 76ers Betting Odds
The Lakers absolutely cannot turn over the ball the way they did in their loss to Dallas on Wednesday. Philadelphia is still a game team, and, while 5 and 1/2 games out of the Eastern Conference's final playoff spot, cannot be overlooked. If Los Angeles comes in playing lazy, Philadelphia could tip over their apple cart, and make the Lakers Friday most unpleasant.
The sportsbook, however, does not appear to anticipate such an upset. With Philly center Samuel Dalembert playing less minutes and looking less impressive with rebounds than his performances earlier this season, the 76ers just don't have the defense to stop the Lakers.

Betting Edge: Lakers

Injuries: Lakers vs 76ers Betting Odds
Those fans indulging in sports betting should be aware of the myriad injuries affecting this game. For Philly, Willie Green (left shoulder injury) will be a game-time decision. Additionally, Francisco Elson (hernia surgery), Allen Iverson (personal reasons), and Jason Smith (sprained right ankle) are out of the lineup. For the Lakers, Kobe Bryant (strained tendon, left ankle / avulsion fracture, right index finger) is probable, as is Andrew Bynum (bruised right hip). Sasha Vujacic (sprained right shoulder) is out, as is Luke Walton (pinched nerve, back) who is listed as out indefinitely. With Bryant and Bynum probable, Los Angeles gets a slight advantage. If either or both sit out, the injury report is even. Philadelphia is really hurting without Green and the presence of big man Jason Smith - who's ankle injury is reportedly the worst sprain the player has suffered.

Betting Edge: Lakers

Betting Prediction: Lakers vs 76ers Betting Odds
If you're doing some NBA betting this weekend, Kobe and the Lakers regaining some confidence and momentum with a win over Philly is a smart pick. After their competitive loss to Dallas on Wednesday night, look for the Lakers to address the problem of turnovers and be more vigilant against a less formidable offense. Moreover, look for Kobe to continue his road to recovery, and take advantage of an injury-weakened team in Philadelphia. While it probably won't be a blowout, look for the Lakers to take an early lead, and just build upon it for the entirety of the game.

CRAIG’s Pick: Lakers