Oddsmakers' insights on Lakers-Pelicans, Warriors-Kings

Plus, where the public is betting and a few best bets from respected bettors

Apr 16, 2024

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The 2024 NBA play-in games begin tonight with two terrific Western Conference matchups. The Los Angles Lakers are — somewhat surprisingly, at least to me — 1.5-point underdogs at the New Orleans Pelicans, while the Golden State Warriors are 2.5-point road favorites against the Sacramento Kings.

The public has been backing the Lakers and the Warriors, with 80% of bets and 95% of money wagered at BetRivers on Golden State to win the game outright. There were some respected bets on the under on both games early as well.

Here are some more insights from oddsmakers on Tuesday’s two games, along with public betting splits from several sportsbooks and a few best bets from handicappers.

Public betting splits

Lakers-Pelicans

DraftKings: 73% of bets, 65% of $$ on Lakers +1.5

BetMGM: 71% of bets, 60% of $$ on Lakers +1.5

BetRivers: 71% of bets, 69% of $$ on Lakers +1.5

Warriors-Kings

DraftKings: 75% of bets, 84% of $$ on Warriors -2.5

BetMGM: 73% of bets, 75% of $$ on Warriors -2.5

BetRivers: 58% of bets, 78% of $$ on Warriors -3

Most-bet player props in Lakers-Pelicans (BetMGM)

LeBron James over 26.5 points (-115)
D’Angelo Russell over 16.5 points (-115)
Zion Williamson over 24.5 points (-110)
LeBron over 8.5 assists (-150)
Austin Reaves over 14.5 points (-115)

Most-bet player props in Warriors-Kings (BetMGM)

Draymond Green under 22.5 points/rebounds/assists (-130)
Stephen Curry over 29.5 points (-105)
Brandin Podziemski over 10.5 PAR (-140)
Andrew Wiggins under 15.5 points (-130)
Domantas Sabonis over 13.5 rebounds (+100)

Most-bet player props at DraftKings