The Los Angeles Lakers' hopes of winning their second consecutive NBA championship might be in peril if they can't keep their star players healthy. LeBron James and Anthony Davis have missed significant time this season due to various injuries, and when they are both out, the Lakers' winning percentage drops to about 38%. However, when they both play, their winning percentage jumps to 65%. LeBron, at 38 years old, is still one of the best players in the game, breaking records and leading his team. Anthony Davis plays at an elite level when healthy, scoring 26.0 points per game and leading the league in rebounds with 12.3 per game.

The Lakers' supporting cast has improved this season, but it's not enough to overcome the loss of their two stars. Dropping their first five games and losing 10 of their first 12 games of the season was worrisome, but they've climbed out of the Western-Conference cellar by winning eight of their next ten games. Betting on the Lakers' future success is popular, and DraftKings Sportsbook now offers many Lakers team and player props while favoring LeBron James to score 25+ points in the upcoming Lakers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves game. Whether it's player props, point spreads, moneylines, or over/under bets, understanding the odds and the essential strategies and types of bets will help Lakers fans and sports bettors make well-informed decisions.