Lakers vs Mavericks: Top NBA Picks and Odds Revealed

Get expert predictions, injury updates, and betting insights for this key NBA matchup.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Dallas Mavericks visit the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday in a crucial Western Conference encounter. The Mavericks, holding a 19-34 record, enter the game grappling with an eight-game losing streak and the loss of top draft pick Cooper Flagg, sidelined with a foot injury until after the All-Star break. Meanwhile, the Lakers, who have stumbled in back-to-back games following a winning streak, look to regain momentum at the Crypto.com Arena. Notably, Luka Doncic will miss the matchup due to a hamstring injury, preventing a face-off with his former team. LeBron James, absent from the previous game, returns without injury, while Deandre Ayton remains out due to a knee issue.

Why it matters

This Lakers versus Mavericks game carries considerable significance, as it comes just before the NBA All-Star break, potentially influencing playoff positioning in the Western Conference. Continued struggles by Dallas could deepen their woes, while a Lakers victory might solidify their standing and build confidence heading into the league's midseason pause.

The details

The game kicks off at 10 p.m. ET, with the Lakers favored by 6.5 points in betting lines and the over/under set at 237.5 points. The Lakers have dominated recent clashes, winning the last four meetings against Dallas, including both contests earlier this season. The latest odds position Los Angeles as a heavy favorite, with the money line at -259, while the Mavericks are listed at +210. Analysts recommend considering these factors carefully before placing bets.

  • The game kicks off at 10 p.m. ET on Thursday, February 12, 2026.

The players

LeBron James

A star player for the Los Angeles Lakers who returns to the lineup without injury.

Deandre Ayton

A player for the Dallas Mavericks who remains out due to a knee issue.

Luka Doncic

A star player for the Dallas Mavericks who will miss the matchup due to a hamstring injury.

Cooper Flagg

The Dallas Mavericks' top draft pick who is sidelined with a foot injury until after the All-Star break.

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What’s next

The game will be broadcast through Prime Video, offering fans and bettors easy access to live action. New users looking to engage in wagering on this matchup can take advantage of promotions such as the DraftKings offer of $300 in bonus bets on a $5+ wager and the Underdog fantasy bonus, which grants $75 in entries with a $5 play using a promo code in certain states.

The takeaway

This Lakers versus Mavericks game carries considerable significance, as it comes just before the NBA All-Star break, potentially influencing playoff positioning in the Western Conference. Both teams have injury issues affecting key players, which adds uncertainty to the contest, making it an intriguing and impactful showdown for bettors and fans alike.