Los Angeles Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks
PREVIEW: The Los Angeles Lakers will face the Dallas Mavericks as they look to snap the home team's four-game winning streak. Los Angeles brings elite rim efficiency ranked first in the league and maintains a high free throw rate of 0.321, also tops in the NBA , giving them a significant advantage in generating easy scoring opportunities. However, the Lakers struggle with three-point shooting frequency at 35.7% and rank near the bottom in offensive rebounding at 22.5% , limitations that could expose them against an aggressive Mavericks defense. Dallas, meanwhile, allows opponents few three-point attempts on the defensive end, ranking third with a 38.3% three-point attempt rate , suggesting they've constructed a scheme designed to limit perimeter volume.
The Mavericks operate with a quick tempo, ranking third in pace, while their defense against shots attacking the rim ranks fifthβa notable strength given how much Los Angeles thrives in that area. Dallas also forces few turnovers, ranking 27th in that category, which could allow the Lakers' offense to operate more smoothly than usual. Both teams share a weakness in offensive rebounding, with Dallas at 22.5% and Los Angeles at 23.5% , meaning second-chance opportunities will likely be minimal for both sides. The matchup takes place at the American Airlines Center on January 24 at 5:30 p.m. PT on ABC , setting the stage for a battle between contrasting offensive and defensive styles.