Game two of a Western Conference First Round series is set for Wednesday night when the Los Angeles Lakers visit the Memphis Grizzlies. The Lakers were able to grab a big game one win and now control the series from here. Below is my NBA pick for the Lakers vs Grizzlies.
Los Angeles Lakers vs Memphis Grizzlies Betting Pick
The Pick: Los Angeles Lakers +1.5
This game will be played at FedEx Forum at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 19, 2023.
Why Bet the Los Angeles Lakers:
✅ Los Angeles has been hot of late and have won eight of their last nine games played.
✅ The Lakers have been good against Memphis having won 10 of their last 15 meetings and covering four of their last six meetings.
✅ Memphis has covered the spread in just one of their last six games and will most likely be without Ja Morant in this one.
Los Angeles Lakers in the Driver’s Seat
The Lakers ended the regular season in great form and that continued in the first game of this series as they won 128-112. People always say a series doesn’t start until a home loses and that happened quickly in this one. Injuries may have a big impact on this series, as well, with both teams struggling to stay healthy. For now, the Lakers will have their full team on Wednesday.
Rui Hachimura had one of the best games of his career as he led the Lakers with 29 points and added six rebounds. Anthony Davis had 22 points and 12 rebounds, and Lebron James added 21 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists. Five Lakers scored 19+ points in the game one win.
The Memphis Grizzlies are in Must Win Mode
Memphis has to feel like they are already taking a standing 10 count even though it is just one game lost. The Grizzlies talk a lot of trash and for them to lose game one at home and, more importantly, for them to lose Ja Morant could bruise their large egos. Game two is a must win for second seed.
Jaren Jackson Jr. led Memphis with 31 points on the night and he added five rebounds and four assists. Desmond Bade added 22 points and a team high six assists in the defeat.
