The Los Angeles Lakers face the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday night in a marquee matchup that carries added intrigue following the blockbuster trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Lakers and Anthony Davis to Dallas. With Davis sidelined due to an adductor strain, the Mavericks must find a way to contain a Lakers team that has won 14 of its last 18 games.
Doncic is coming off his best game as a Laker, scoring 32 points with 10 rebounds in a dominant road win over the Denver Nuggets. Meanwhile, LeBron James added an efficient 25 points, nine rebounds, and five assists in his previous outing.
Here’s the featured LeBron James prop bet on DraftKings Sportsbook for Tuesday’s matchup against the Mavericks.
Best LeBron James Prop Bet on DraftKings Sportsbook
Over 24.5 Points (-120)
James has remained a focal point of the Lakers’ offense despite adding Doncic, averaging 28.7 points per game since the trade. However, not each of those games was played with Doncic. James has averaged 23.3 points, 7.8 assists, and 7.3 rebounds in four matchups playing alongside Doncic.
While James’ scoring average with Doncic may be under the line for this game, the chemistry between the two stars has progressed. James has continued to take on a significant scoring load while capitalizing on transition leak-outs and playing off the catch. With Davis sidelined, along with Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford, Dallas will have a tough time protecting the rim, making it easier for Doncic and James.
The Mavericks struggled defensively in their last outing, surrendering 126 points to the Warriors while allowing 30 points off turnovers. Given the Lakers’ ability to force turnovers—they recorded a season-high 15 steals against the Nuggets—James could see plenty of opportunities to push the pace and attack a vulnerable Dallas defense.
Additionally, with Kyrie Irving and P.J. Washington (questionable to play) as Dallas’ primary scoring threats, the Lakers will look to create separation behind their superstar duo. James has scored 25 or more points in each game since the All-Star break and remains a strong bet to exceed this points total against a Mavericks’ defense that has been inconsistent in containing elite playmakers.
