Pick against the spread, best player prop for Kings vs. Lakers on Friday

The late shift of tonight’s NBA schedule will feature two Pacific Division rivals trying to find their footing amidst a slew of injuries as the Los Angeles Lakers (36-26) play host to the Sacramento Kings (25-37).

The banged up Lakers have struggled over the past few weeks, dropping five of their last seven contests as Anthony Davis continues to get into a rhythm after his two month injury hiatus. Meanwhile, the Kings are coming off their worst output of the season on Wednesday, getting shelled by Utah in a 154-105 onslaught. Which team can break out of their respective slumps heading into tonight’s matchup? Let’s go over the best betting options at DraftKings Sportsbook.

Kings vs. Lakers, 10:30 p.m. ET, NBA TV

Pick ATS: Lakers -8.5

Both LA and Sacramento have been subpar to dreadful ATS with one day off this season but a few factors favor the Lakers to win comfortably here. Along with Davis, Dennis Schroeder and Marc Gasol are listed as probable while Alex Caruso is questionable with a back injury. On the flip side, the Kings will once again be without De’Aaron Fox due to COVID protocols and Harrison Barnes due to a groin injury.

The Lakers’ struggles in the absence of Lebron James have been well documented but with them teetering on falling into play-in tournament territory, expect them to come out tonight and put on a strong performance against the Kings.

Player Prop: Anthony Davis Double-Double (Yes, +275)

This will be Davis’ fifth game back from injury and he’s gradually working himself back into form, increasing his minutes, points, and shot attempts with each game. After dropping 26 points and five rebounds in Wednesday’s loss to Washington, I expect tonight to mark his first double-double effort since returning.

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL).Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ/WV/PA/MI), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (NH/CO), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), 1-888-532-3500 (VA) or call/text TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN).21+ (18+ NH). CO/IL/IN/IA/NH/NJ/PA/TN/VA/WV/MI only. Eligibility restrictions apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for full terms and conditions.