Spurs vs. Lakers: 3 Best Bets as LeBron James Returns

After missing his last game, LeBron James will return for the Los Angeles Lakers as they host Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs.

The San Antonio Spurs narrowly lost to the Sacramento Kings last night. Tonight, they stay in California to take on the Los Angeles Lakers, who missed LeBron James in their loss to the Golden State Warriors, but he is back in action tonight. 

The Spurs are 1-1 against Los Angeles this season and hope to win their final matchup. The Spurs easily won the only game that featured both James and Victor Wembanyama. 

Dec 15, 2023; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) dunks during the first half against the Los Angeles Lakers at Frost Bank Center / © Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports

Devin Vassell and Wembanyama did not miss a beat after the All-Star Break. Both of them had impressive games in Sacramento and hope to get a win tonight in Hollywood. Neither team has anyone on their injury report.

Keep it posted here for our three best bets, courtesy of the lines at SI Sportsbook. 

The Lines

Point spread: Laker -9.5 (-118)/Spurs +9.5 (-105)

Money line: Lakers (-500)/Spurs (+350)

Over/under: 240.5

Our Picks

Safe pick: Devin Vassell OVER 21.5 points (-125)

In his first game against the Lakers this season, Vassell scored only 13 points on one-of-seven shooting from deep. In the follow-up matchup, he scored 36 points on five-of-ten from distance. Over his last five games, he's averaged 23 points on exceptional shooting, so expect a decent night from Vassell.

Team pick: Spurs +9.5 (-105)

The Spurs kept it close last night and only lost by three in their lone loss to the Lakers this season. The Lakers are playing for high stakes, trying to make a playoff push, so don't expect the Spurs to win, but Los Angeles won't run away with it. 

Power Rankings: Spurs at Bottom After All-Star Break?

Parlay pick: Victor Wembanyama OVER 20.5 points, OVER 8.5 rebounds, OVER 3.5 steals + blocks, Anthony Davis UNDER 12.5 rebounds (+575)

Last night, we built a four-leg parlay that came very close to hitting, and tonight, we're trying it again! Wembanyama is averaging 21.5 points this season against LA, and scored 30 points on Anthony Davis earlier this year. It will all come down to rebounds, so if the Spurs make their shots, there will be fewer chances for Davis to nab 13 boards.