Los Angeles at Sacramento

Los Angeles had a big scare as LeBron James went down with a groin injury and he's not expected to play tonight at Sacramento. Even with James the Lakers have gone UNDER their last four games as their defense has improved somewhat and the posted totals continue to be on the high side. Sacramento comes off a 127-118 loss at the Los Angeles Clippers last night while missing 20-of-30 shots from three-point range. The Lakers destroyed Golden State 127-101 on Christmas Day as a nine-point underdog and the game went UNDER by 5.5 points. The UNDER is 9-1-1 the last 11 meetings between these teams, including 3-1-1 UNDER at Sacramento and the Lakers have gone UNDER in 20 of their last 27 overall. Also, the Lakers are 10-2 UNDER their last 12 playing with one day of rest and 7-1-2 UNDER their last 10 versus the Pacific Division. The Kings are 14-6 UNDER their last 20 after an ATS loss. Sacramento is also a small favorite over the Lakers due to the fact LeBron James isn't expected to play and Los Angeles still has lost three of its last five games even after beating Golden State on Tuesday. The Kings had won two straight before losing at the Clippers on Thursday night, but they're back home where they have won nine of 16 games this season. Buddy Hield had an off-shooting night against the Clippers making just four of 18 shots while missing all six three-point attempts, but he figures to get back on track tonight. Sacramento has an opportunity to avenge a loss to the Lakers in the only other meeting this season on Nov. 10. Also, the Lakers are in a letdown situation after their big win over the Warriors. Play the Kings on the moneyline and also back the UNDER.