NBA picks 11/18: Jazz @ Lakers

NBA Schedule

• Jazz @ Lakers on Tuesday, Nov 18, 2025 at 07:30 PM PST

Team Analysis

Utah

• Season Overview and Recent Form

The Utah Jazz enter this matchup with a 5-8 record, placing them 10th in the Western Conference. Their recent performance has been inconsistent, with two wins and three losses in their last five games. Notably, they secured a victory in their most recent outing, indicating a potential upswing.

• Key Players

– Lauri Markkanen: Leading the team with an average of 30.6 points per game, Markkanen has been a consistent offensive force.

– Keyonte George: Emerging as a significant contributor, George is averaging 22.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game, showcasing his versatility.

Los Angeles

• Season Overview and Recent Form

The Los Angeles Lakers hold a 10-4 record, positioning them fourth in the Western Conference. They’ve demonstrated strong form, winning three of their last five games. In their previous game, they defeated the Milwaukee Bucks 119-95, with Luka Doncic scoring 41 points and Deandre Ayton contributing a double-double.

• Key Players

– Luka Doncic: Averaging 34.4 points, 8.9 assists, and 8.9 rebounds per game, Doncic has been instrumental in the Lakers’ success.

– Austin Reaves: Contributing 28.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game, Reaves has been a reliable playmaker.

Key Matchup Factors

• Head-to-Head History

In their most recent encounter on February 13, 2025, the Utah Jazz snapped the Los Angeles Lakers‘ six-game winning streak with a 131-119 victory. Lauri Markkanen led the Jazz with 32 points, while Jordan Clarkson added 21 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists.

• Important Player Matchups

– Lauri Markkanen vs. Luka Doncic: Both players are central to their teams’ offenses. Markkanen’s scoring prowess will be tested against Doncic’s all-around game.

– Keyonte George vs. Austin Reaves: George’s playmaking abilities will be challenged by Reaves’ defensive skills and scoring capacity.

• Injuries and News

– LeBron James: The Lakers’ star is nearing his return after being sidelined due to sciatica. He has been practicing with the team and may play as early as this game, potentially making history as the first NBA player to appear in 23 consecutive seasons.

– Austin Reaves: Reaves is expected to return from a groin injury for this game, adding depth to the Lakers’ lineup.

Betting Analysis

• Spread Analysis

The Los Angeles Lakers are favored by 12.5 points. Their strong home performance and recent victories support this line. However, the Utah Jazz have shown resilience, covering the spread in 55.7% of their games this season.

• Total (Over/Under) Analysis

The over/under is set at 237.5 points. The Lakers’ games have gone over the total in nine out of 13 opportunities this season, while the Jazz have exceeded the over/under in seven of 13 games.

• Best Value Opportunities

– Player Points – Austin Reaves Over 19.5: Reaves has exceeded 20 points in six of his last eight home games, making the over a compelling option.

– Player Assists – Keyonte George Over 5.5: George’s facilitating role is crucial, and his assist numbers are expected to be significant in this matchup.

Prediction

The Los Angeles Lakers are poised to secure a victory, leveraging their home-court advantage and the potential return of LeBron James. While the Utah Jazz have the capability to cover the spread, the Lakers’ depth and recent form make them the favored team.

For bettors, focusing on player-specific prop bets, such as Austin Reaves’ point total and Keyonte George’s assists, may offer favorable returns.

Utilizing Wannamakeabet’s points-based betting system can further enhance your betting strategy, providing data-driven insights to inform your decisions.