The Los Angeles Lakers have started the 2025 NBA season strongly, boasting 10 wins, which ties them for second place in the Western Conference, just behind the reigning champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, who have 14 wins. Notably, the Lakers achieved this without four-time MVP LeBron James, who is in his 23rd season but has yet to play due to sciatica affecting his lower back and right side. James, 40, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, practiced for the first time Monday after missing the initial 14 games. He is listed as questionable for Tuesday’s 10:30 pm ET game against the Utah Jazz at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
James expressed frustration about missing the season start, calling it a mental challenge he’s working hard to overcome physically and mentally. In his absence, the Lakers have found balance, with six players averaging double digits in scoring, led by Luka Doncic, who averages 34.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 8.9 assists per game. The Jazz, with a 5-8 record, have won two of their last three games and recently played the highest-scoring game this NBA season, defeating the Chicago Bulls 150-147 in overtime, highlighted by Lauri Markkanen’s 47 points.
The Lakers are favored by 12.5 points against the Jazz, with a total points over/under set at 238.5. SportsLine expert Bruce Marshall, who boasts a +646 record in NBA picks this season, recommends betting on the Lakers -12.5, expecting a positive dynamic with James potentially playing and the home crowd energized. Additionally, the SportsLine Projection Model favors a home win and anticipates a strong performance from James, who is advised to contribute at least 25.5 combined points, rebounds, and assists.
Elsewhere, the Phoenix Suns will face the Portland Trail Blazers at 11 pm, with the Blazers favored by 2.5 points, predicted to bounce back from a poor road trip. Meanwhile, in the NHL, the New York Rangers are set to play the Vegas Golden Knights at 10 pm. The Rangers, strong on the road with a 9-1-1 record, are modeled to extend the Golden Knights’ home losing streak.
Fan Take: This Lakers vs. Jazz game is crucial not just for basketball fans but also for hockey enthusiasts who love seeing intense, high-stakes sports competition on the same night. The energy and momentum from a star’s return like LeBron James can electrify the arena and inspire crossover excitement, potentially drawing more fans to both NBA and NHL games.
