Battle of LA? Not quite, but there’s added attention whenever the Clippers and Lakers take the court. Tuesday’s Summer League showdown could give SoCal fans their first glimpse at several intriguing young prospects. Which of these two crosstown rivals has the edge this evening in Las Vegas?
The Clippers enter as 2.5-point favorites with -166 moneyline odds on DraftKings Sportsbook. The Lakers are +140 underdogs, with the game total set at 179.5 points. Let’s dive into a preview, pick and prediction for today’s matchup.
Clippers vs. Lakers preview, prediction
It’s been quite the summer for the Clippers, who are still awaiting the NBA’s investigation into the Kawhi Leonard-Aspiration scandal. Off-court issues aside, the team’s front office has done a solid job of bringing in young talent. That includes Keaton Wagler, the fifth overall pick during June’s NBA Draft. After a breakout campaign at Illinois, the guard is looking to establish himself as a difference maker at the next level. So far, it’s been a mixed bag for the rookie. Wagler shot just one-of-seven from the field last week during his Summer League debut. However, he bounced back with a 23-point showing on Sunday vs. the Jazz. A talented scorer with enviable 6’6″ height, the 19-year-old has limitless potential.
Wagler isn’t the only name worth mentioning on LA’s roster. Big man Baba Miller has been a force on offense, putting up 12 and 15 points respectively. Players with NBA experience such as Cam Christie and Kobe Sanders give the Clippers decent depth on the wings, as well. The team comes into this one fresh off of a 104-point outing against Utah. During that contest, Los Angeles connected on 45.5% of its three-point attempts. A similar showing tonight may be wishful thinking. However, the ceiling for this group on offense is through the roof. That’s especially true if Wagler looks as sharp as he did last weekend.
The Clippers aren’t the only club tonight with a highly touted prospect. Cameron Carr, considered by some analysts as a lottery pick, slipped all the way to the Lakers at pick #24. The Baylor alum didn’t suit up during the team’s second Summer League game. However, as of Tuesday afternoon, there’s no indication he’ll be held out again this evening. In his performance last Friday vs. Oklahoma City, Carr notched 18 points and two blocks. That included a few impressive slam dunks as well.
Carr isn’t the only youngster making their mark with the Purple and Gold. Arthur Kaluma has been the team’s breakout star dating back to the California Summer League in early July. Over four outings, the Texas alum has recorded 20.0 points per game. That includes a 34-point masterpiece vs. the Mavericks on Saturday. Another name worth mentioning is Adou Thiero, who has been a two-way force. The second-year pro is putting up 14.3 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.3 steals during Summer League.
Clippers vs. Lakers pick, best bet
With respect to Carr, Wagler is the best player on the floor in this contest. However, the Lakers have gotten surprising contributions from the rest of their Summer League roster. In comparison, the Clippers have had somewhat shaky production from more proven names such as Christie and Sanders. Assuming Carr plays, the Lakers offer plenty of value as underdogs entering Tuesday’s matchup.
