The Los Angeles Lakers host the Detroit Pistons, who have the best record in the Eastern Conference, tonight at 10:30 p.m. ET. The Pistons have a 24-8 record this season but have lost two straight. The Lakers are coming off a 24-point victory against the Sacramento Kings. Detroit is currently on a two-game winning streak against the Lakers.
On DraftKings Sportsbook, Detroit is a -2.5-point favorite while the Lakers are a +114 underdog. Here are my favorite prop bets for tonight’s Lakers vs. Pistons matchup.
LeBron James Over 22.5 Points (-119)
Today is LeBron James’ 41st birthday, and he is averaging 32.9 points, 7,1 rebounds, and 6.9 assists in 10 games on December 30 in his career. He has scored at least 26 points in his last nine contests on his birthday, and this is his first game on his birthday since 2023.
After making his season debut on November 18, James has had his ups and downs but has still been productive in his first whole month. James has scored more than 22.5 points in five of his previous six games. In five of 10 games in December, James has attempted at least 17 field goals. In four of those games where he attempted 17-plus field goals, James has finished with at least 23 points.
Recently, James has had a ton of success against the Pistons, scoring more than 22.5 points in five of the last six matchups. James’ over in points is -119 on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Jalen Duren Over 27.5 Points + Rebounds (-113)
Jalen Duren is having a career year, averaging 18.2 points and 10.9 rebounds per contest, both of which are career highs. Duren has had eight double-doubles in December, with five coming in the last six games. In five of his previous six contests, Duren has totaled more than 27.5 points and rebounds.
You can get Duren to record 28 or more points and rebounds at -113. Duren has hit this mark in 19 of 29 games this season. He averages only 11.1 field goal attempts per game but is incredibly efficient, hitting 63.6 percent (sixth-best in the NBA) of his field goals. Duren also averages the fifth most rebounds per game. Throughout this season, Duren has been a very consistent player for the Pistons, and he has all the tools to total more than 27.5 points and rebounds against the Lakers.
