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Andrew Rogers
Rockets vs. Lakers Game 1 Prediction: NBA Playoff Odds, Point Spread
The Houston Rockets gutted out a seven-game series win against a formidable Oklahoma City Thunder club – and their reward: a date with the top-seeded (and well-rested) Los Angeles Lakers. The teams kick off their second-round series Friday night in Orlando with the Lakers a -400 favourite to win the series – and they’re comfortable favourites in the series opener of a series featuring several of the most entertaining players in the league.
NBA Point Spread and Betting Analysis
The Lakers opened at -6, though that number could rise if the public starts to hammer the favourite. At present, 55 percent of Sports Interaction participants are on the Lakers despite the fact that the Rockets actually won two of three during the regular-season series. Los Angeles has actually been a poor cover option over an extended stretch, having covered just four of its past 14 games overall. Houston, meanwhile, is just 1-4 ATS in its last five.
People have reached much more of a consensus when it comes to the total, which is currently set at 226.5. Three-quarters of bettors are riding with the Over, though there are signs that the Under might actually be the superior play. Houston has converted the Under in 10 of its last 14 games overall, including the last three games vs. OKC (none of which exceeded 206 points). And the Lakers are 5-1 to the Under in their last six vs. Southwest Division foes.
Houston Rockets
Vegas might not think much of the Rockets’ chances of winning the series, but they do own a significant edge over the Lakers when it comes to 3-point shooting. While both teams rank outside the top-10 in 3-point success rate in the playoffs, Houston attempts a staggering 51 long-range shots per game and should see a major scoring advantage from deep. And if the Rockets can get their success rate closer to their season mark, they’ll be dangerous.
Los Angeles Lakers
How can the Lakers counter Houston’s small-ball, 3-point-heavy attack? By turning misses into points. L.A. ranks second in the postseason in rebounds per game, and will almost certainly control the defensive boards and limit the Rockets’ second-chance scoring. L.A. will also look to use its size advantage by playing LeBron James at the 3, Anthony Davis at the 4 and one of their other big men – likely JaVale McGee to start – at the 5.
HOU
LAL