Lakers vs. Cleveland. NBA Match Prediction
January 1st begins with a spectacular showdown as the Lakers host the Eastern Conference leader, Cleveland. Will LeBron James' team be able to break the Cavs' confidence and extend their winning streak? - find out in our forecast

Command Analysis

LA Lakers

Current form
After a series of unstable performances, the Lakers have returned to form and are showing excellent results. The team has won two games in a row, first defeating Golden State (115:113), and then confidently defeating Sacramento (132:122).
LeBron James continues to demonstrate leadership qualities, and his partners effectively support his initiative. JJ Redick charges strive to rise higher in the standings and strengthen their positions in the fight for the playoffs. Ahead of them lies a real test in the person of one of the best clubs in the league - Cleveland, and this match will show whether the Lakers are ready to fight on equal terms with the favorites.
Disqualifications and injuries
Jarred Vanderbilt will not play due to a leg injury.
Interesting facts for betting
The team has won four of its last five matches.
Probable lineup: James - Hachimura, Davis - Christie, Reeves.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Current form
The Cavaliers have been in great shape this season and continue to confidently lead the Eastern Conference. The team has pulled away from its pursuers and is not going to slow down. In the last match, Cleveland crushed Golden State (113:95), and Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell once again shone, scoring 48 points between them.
J.B. Bickerstaff men are approaching the game against the Lakers as clear favorites. The away game in Los Angeles will be a serious test for the Cavs, as the hosts are currently in excellent shape. A win in this game will further strengthen Cleveland leadership in the East.
Disqualifications and injuries
Isaac Okoro will not be able to help his team due to injury.
Interesting facts for betting
The Cavs' winning streak is now seven games.
Projected lineup: Wade - Mobley, Allen - Garland, Mitchell.
Trends
Bet 1st quarter. Cleveland win
The Cavs have won in the first quarter in three of their last five head-to-head games.
1.83Bet 1st quarter: total over 56.5 points
In 3 of the last 5 head-to-head games, more than 56 points were scored in the first quarter.
1.76Tip and bets
Cleveland is rightfully considered one of the best teams in the NBA this season, but every winning streak eventually ends. The Lakers are on the rise and have every chance to surprise the leader of the East. LeBron James and his team cope well with important matches, especially on the home court, where the support of the stands can be a decisive factor. We expect a tense game, but, in our opinion, the hosts will be able to impose a fight and interrupt the winning streak of the guests.
Our prediction is a Lakers win with overtime at 2.42
Bet on total
The match promises to be tactical and cautious. Cleveland will try to minimize risks, and the Lakers understand that rushing against the leader of the East can work against them. Therefore, we expect low scoring and offer a bet on the total under.
Forecast - total under 230.5 points for 1.71
Bet on statistics
The Lakers will try to make the game as difficult as possible for the visitors, using all available defensive resources. LeBron James and his team will do everything possible to neutralize the Cavs' attack, so the visitors are unlikely to show their usual efficiency.
Prediction - Cleveland individual total under 116.5 points for 1.90