Expert prediction
NBA Playoffs: Los Angeles Lakers vs. OKC Thunder Game 1 Preview, Odds, Picks (May 5)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- Lakers vs. Thunder odds favor the home side at -14.5.
- OKC swept the Phoenix Suns in the first round.
- Los Angeles Lakers eliminated the Rockets in 6 games.
Shorthanded Lakers travel to face the NBA champions, the Thunder, in OKC. The hosts were dominant in the opening round, sweeping the Suns, 4-0.
Here are more NBA playoff picks.
How to Watch
- When: Tuesday, May 5,
- Where: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- How to Watch: NBC, Peacock
Lakers vs. Thunder Game 1 Odds
Game Preview
Luka Doncic is out, yet for the moment, LeBron is navigating the LAL ship successfully. King James averages 23.2 points with 8.3 assists and 7.2 boards, and looks at least 10 years younger.
What we need to add is that the Lakers play excellent defense and that they allowed the Rockets 98.7 points per game. Throughout the season, this was one of the Lakers’ secret weapons, and since they no longer have Luka, they have to turn their attention to defense.
OKC relies on a high-tempo offense, where they grind opponents on the offensive side of the ball. The lowest they’ve scored in the series was 119 points, and that says everything.
Jaylen Williams is officially still out, but there are some rumors that he might be ready for Game 2. Right now, he is still listed day-to-day and questionable.
Lakers vs. Thunder Head to Head
The Thunder was better in all four games against the Lakers this year, and led 4-0. On three occasions, they kept the LAL under 100 points, while scoring 119+ in all events.
Lakers vs. Thunder Predictions
The Lakers are very limited offensively, with LeBron the only one in solid form right now. Therefore, OKC’s high-tempo, efficient basketball will break LAL and cover the spread, sending a strong message in Game 1.
Free NBA Pick: Thunder -14.5
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