NBA Playoff Odds Prediction, Pick: Fade the Lakers in 2024-25

Based on the early NBA odds at the online sportsbook, my first playoff bet of the 2024-25 season is betting against the Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers have made the playoffs in back-to-back seasons but have needed the play-in tournament to make the dance in both seasons. Los Angeles brought everyone back from last year's team, which lost in the opening round. The Lakers ranked 19th in net rating, finishing with 47 wins when their expected record had them at 42-40. The Lakers are -115 to miss the playoffs this year and -105 to notch a postseason berth. Check out the video for more on my favorite NBA playoff prediction: