New Orleans at Los Angeles

It is easy to see why the Lakers are such a heavy favorite against the Pelicans. New Orleans is 3–16 after a 104-96 road loss to Golden State on Saturday. LA is 14–4 overall - 4-0 since LeBron James returned - and on a six-game winning streak. But going beneath the surface, there are compelling reasons to back the Pelicans at such a high point spread. New Orleans is 5-2 ATS in its last seven games, including covering as a 10-point underdog against the Warriors yesterday. One of the Pelicans' non-covers during this time frame was two games ago when they lost to the Grizzlies by five points in overtime as 3.5-point underdogs. New Orleans also is 5-2 ATS in its last seven away games. The Pelicans were idle for two days before playing the Warriors on Saturday. The Lakers are off an emotional, 129-119, home win against the Mavericks and former teammate Anthony Davis this past Friday. LA has a bigger game on Monday hosting the Suns. Because of that James may not play. The Lakers are listing him as questionable with a foot injury. Take the Pelicans.