Sports prediction: The Los Angeles Lakers face the San Antonio Spurs tonight in an NBA Cup quarterfinal matchup where the defending conference powers collide at Crypto.com Arena. The Lakers stand as heavy favorites with a 5.5-point spread, but San Antonio comes in seeking one of the season’s biggest upsets.
🔥 Quick Facts
Game Time: 10 p.m. ET on December 10, 2025, streaming on Prime Video
Spread: Lakers -5.5 with total at 236.5 points
Tournament: NBA Cup quarterfinals, single-elimination knockout format
Injury Impact: Victor Wembanyama ruled out for Spurs with hamstring strain; LeBron James and Luka Dončić available
Lakers Enter as Heavy Favorites Against Undermanned Spurs
The Los Angeles Lakers hold a commanding 5.5-point advantage on the oddsmakers, listing as clear favorites to advance in this NBA Cup quarterfinal clash. The moneyline sits at -225 for Lakers, while the Spurs carry +185 odds to pull off the upset, according to multiple sportsbooks.
This marks the highest leverage moment of the tournament so far. The eight-team knockout format means the loser’s season comes to an immediate standstill from the tournament perspective. Unlike regular season games, every possession carries championship implications.
Wembanyama’s Absence Drastically Shifts Matchup Dynamics
The biggest storyline entering this matchup centers on Victor Wembanyama being ruled out with a left hamstring strain after missing 10 consecutive games. The Spurs’ 7-foot-4 generational talent provides the foundation for San Antonio’s defensive scheme and pick-and-roll offense.
Without their superstar, the Spurs must manufacture offense through Devin Vassell and supporting players. The Lakers’ decision to welcome back Marcus Smart from injury further tilts momentum westward. The Spurs previously defeated the Lakers earlier this season driven by Luka Dončić’s 35-point explosion in that rare matchup.
Matchup Breakdown: Team Records and Key Performers
Category
Lakers
Spurs
Record
17-6
15-8
Key Star
Luka Dončić (35.3 ppg)
Victor Wembanyama (26.2 ppg) – OUT
Home Record
9-2
6-5 (away)
ATS Last 7 Games
5-2
Competing in West
Can San Antonio Orchestrate the Upset Despite Wembanyama’s Absence?
The Spurs face a daunting challenge when considering historical context and matchup construction. Los Angeles has dominated home games this season at 9-2, creating fortress conditions at Crypto.com Arena.
San Antonio’s path to victory depends entirely on defensive discipline and three-point shooting efficiency. The Spurs recently showcased 47.2% three-point shooting without their big in a previous game, proving they possess the shooting capability to stay competitive.
The historic point spread of 5.5 reflects the dramatic shift caused by Wembanyama’s injury status. Oddsmakers have adjusted significantly from opening spreads, indicating professional bettors recognize the magnitude of the missing All-Star talent.
Will Tonight’s NBA Cup Quarterfinal Prove the Spread Accurate?
The oddsmakers have settled on Lakers -5.5, suggesting professional consensus that the five-point difference represents appropriate compensation for San Antonio’s injury scenario and home-court disadvantage. Prime Video will broadcast this matchup live for fans nationwide.
The Spurs enter as classic upset candidates despite the spread, given their proven shooting prowess and veteran leadership. However, without Wembanyama protecting the rim, Luka Dončić and the Lakers’ offensive firepower may prove too overwhelming for San Antonio to contain. The 8:00 PM PT / 10:00 PM ET tipoff will determine who advances toward the NBA Cup semifinals this Saturday.
Annabelle Ink is a gaming journalist and lifelong gamer who lives and breathes video game culture. From console releases to esports tournaments, this dedicated journalist brings insider knowledge and genuine enthusiasm to every review and feature. Her expertise spans multiple gaming platforms, helping readers discover their next favorite game while staying connected to the pulse of the gaming industry.