20* Mavs/Lakers NBA on TNT Late-Night BAILOUT on Los Angeles -3.5

Dallas vs. LA Lakers, 01/16/2012 22:30 EDT, Score: 70 - 73

Point Spread: -3½/-110 LA Lakers

Sportsbook: BookMaker

Result: Loss

The Los Angeles Lakers are showing solid value tonight as a small home favorite against the Dallas Mavericks. The Lakers want this game more than any other game they will play during the regular season. Los Angeles was swept in the second round of the playoffs last year by the Mavericks, and there's no question they want revenge.

While Dallas is riding a five-game winning streak, they have beating up on some very suspect opponents. Their five wins have come against the Hornets, Pistons, Celtics, Bucks and Kings. All five of those teams have losing records and they are a combined 18-42 on the season.

The Lakers are the real deal this year and they are starting to really click under new head coach Mike Brown. L.A. has won five of their last six games overall, and they've been virtually unstoppable at home. The Lakers are 8-1 at home this season, outscoring opponents by 9.9 points/game.

The Mavericks are 3-12 ATS in their last 15 games after allowing less than 75 points in their previous game. The Lakers are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 games as a favorite of 0.5-4.5. Look for Kobe Bryant to go off for 40-plus points for a fifth straight game tonight while leading his team to a win and cover. Bet the Lakers Monday.