Los Angeles Lakers vs Heat prediction, betting odds and TV channel

The Los Angeles Lakers are coming off of an overtime victory over the Charlotte Hornets and host the Miami Heat in the second game of a five-game homestand on Wednesday night.

This matchup against the Heat might leave Laker fans thinking “what-if?” about the prospect of the Lakers trading for Kyle Lowry instead of Russell Westbrook. It definitely is was possible and this game could painfully highlight that.

The Heat are off to a great start, which cannot be said about the Lakers. Miami is currently tied for first place in the Eastern Conference with a 7-3 record against tough opponents. The Lakers are 6-5 with an easy schedule thus far.

It is very rare in the LeBron James-Lakers era but the purple and gold are actually underdogs at home… partially because LeBron James is not playing.

Los Angeles Lakers vs Heat odds, spread, over/under:

According to WynnBET, the Los Angeles Lakers are five-point underdogs at home against the Miami Heat. The Lakers are a +170 moneyline underdog while the Heat are a -190 moneyline favorite. The over/under for the game has been set at 217 points.

Los Angeles Lakers vs Heat prediction:

Without LeBron James, the Lakers do not have much of a chance. I know that is not a popular thing to think here on Lake Show Life but the Heat are a well-rounded and deep basketball team that has an identity. The Lakers are thin with injuries and are still trying to discover their identity.

The question then becomes if they can cover the five-point spread. Quite frankly, I don’t think the Lakers are going to be able to do that either. This is going to be an ugly loss for the purple and gold.

The problem with the Lakers’ potential covering a game like this is how other teams view the Lakers. While they are struggling to start the team, the Heat still will view the Lakers as a potential title-contender, thus wanting to make a statement over the Lakers.

This isn’t a game where the Heat might let up late in the game and allow the Lakers back in. This is a game where the Heat will look to make a statement against a banged-up Lakers team. I am taking Heat -5 and under 217 points.

Los Angeles Lakers vs Heat TV channel:

This game is going to be available to a national TV audience on ESPN. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. PT.

Los Angeles Lakers schedule and upcoming games:

The Los Angeles Lakers have three more games after the Miami game at the Staples Center against the Timberwolves, Spurs and Bulls.

The Lakers then go on a five-game road trip that kicks off against the Milwaukee Bucks on November 17. They return back to LA on November 26.