The Los Angeles Lakers are entering the 2024-25 NBA season with renewed optimism and high expectations. The team has made significant changes, most notably by bringing in JJ Redick as their new head coach. Redick, a former NBA sharpshooter, is taking on his first head coaching role and has assembled an experienced staff to support him.
The Lakers are looking for big seasons from their LeBron James and Anthony Davis star duo. James re-signed with the team for two more years after an impressive performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he earned MVP honors. Despite being in the latter stages of his career, James continues to defy age and expectations, particularly given that he’s playing alongside his son this season.
Anthony Davis remains a crucial piece for the Lakers, with the team hoping he can stay healthy and dominate on both ends of the court. Davis is considered a contender for the Defensive Player of the Year award, with odds of +1800.
While oddsmakers have set the Lakers’ projected win total at a modest 44.5 for the season, the team’s mix of veteran leadership, star power, and exciting young talent has fans and players alike hoping for a successful campaign that exceeds these expectations.
Lakers Among the NBA Favorites
The Lakers’ projected win total of 44.5 puts them behind several contenders in both conferences. According to the consensus Betpack.com shortlist of sportsbooks, 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)
The defending champion Celtics lead the pack with the highest projected win total. At the same time, young powerhouses like the Thunder and established contenders like the Nuggets are also expected to finish well above the Lakers.
Western Conference Landscape
The Western Conference remains highly competitive, with several teams projected 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 Considerations
For bettors considering the Lakers’ win total, it’s important to note the odds:
- Over 44.5 wins: +100
- Under 44.5 wins: -130
This suggests that oddsmakers slightly favor the Lakers, falling short of 44.5 wins. Factors like team health, chemistry, and the competitive Western Conference all play into this projection.
Last Word
While the Lakers’ projected win total of 44.5 may seem modest compared to top contenders, it reflects the uncertainty surrounding the team heading into the 2024-25 season. The health of stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis will be crucial, as will the performance of their supporting cast. Despite the lower projection, the Lakers’ playoff experience and star power keep them in the conversation as a potential threat in the Western Conference.
The Lakers’ win total offers an interesting opportunity for bettors. Those confident in the team’s ability to stay healthy and exceed expectations might find value in the Over at +100 odds. Conversely, skeptics of the Lakers’ durability and depth might lean towards the Under at -130.
As always, bettors must consider all factors, manage their bankroll wisely, and make informed decisions based on thorough analysis rather than emotion.
