Utah Jazz vs Los Angeles Lakers 25 October 2026 Prediction

Utah held off New Orleans 120-119 at home, but its next matchup looks tougher. The unbeaten Los Angeles Lakers visit Salt Lake City with center Walker Kessler returning to face the Jazz after his offseason trade. Can he help the Lakers extend their winning streak?

Utah Nearly Gives Up a 15-Point Lead

The Jazz had to work for their first win of the season. They led the Pelicans by 15 points before being outscored 31-13 in the third quarter. Peterson and George scored key points late to secure the 120-119 win.

Jaren Jackson Jr. returned Friday and recorded 24 points and 10 rebounds, but Utah remains vulnerable defensively. With Nurkic injured, Jackson has had to play center, leaving the Jazz less secure in the paint. They allowed at least 119 points in both games, losing 123-103 to the Grizzlies before beating the Pelicans 120-119.

Utah Jazz Predicted Lineup: George, Peterson, Bailey, Markkanen, Jackson Jr.

Unavailable: Nurkic (injury)

Manager: Will Hardy

The Lakers Open with Two Wins

The Lakers have started the season with two convincing offensive performances. JJ Redick’s team beat Golden State 127-105, then defeated the Clippers 125-117. Neither opponent presented its toughest test, but Los Angeles has given little indication that it needs to change its approach.

Kessler, acquired from Utah, has made an immediate impact. He shot 12-for-12 from the field against the Warriors, then had 22 points and six blocks against the Clippers. Walker and Thybulle have worked well together defensively. On offense, Doncic and Reaves give the Lakers ways to exploit defensive mistakes.

Los Angeles Lakers Predicted Lineup: Doncic, Reaves, Thybulle, Williams, Kessler

Unavailable: None reported

Manager: JJ Redick

The Lakers Won All Four Meetings Last Season

Los Angeles swept its four-game series against Utah in the 2025-26 regular season. The Lakers won twice at home, 140-125 and 131-107, and twice in Salt Lake City, 108-106 and 143-135.

Utah Jazz vs Los Angeles Lakers Prediction: Los Angeles Lakers Handicap -4.5

Main prediction: Utah needed a late push to beat a struggling New Orleans team 120-119. The Lakers, meanwhile, have already seen strong production from Doncic, Reaves and Kessler, who now faces his former team. Los Angeles also won all four meetings last season. The pick is Lakers -4.5.

Total prediction: Both teams have played at a quick pace to start the season. Peterson has added speed to Utah’s offense, though the Jazz have allowed at least 119 points in each game. The Lakers have scored at least 125 in both outings, and three of last season’s four meetings reached 238 combined points. The pick is over 235.5 points.