Los Angeles Lakers at Oklahoma City Thunder (-3.5) Betting Odds

The Lakers topped Oklahoma City 95-92 in Game 2. Though Los Angeles has strung together back-to-back wins, erasing their late collapse during the regular season, the team still can't be trusted at the sportsbook. The Lakers have covered just four times in their last 10 games against the spread. This series is now shifting to Oklahoma City, and LA has covered only five times in its last 10 games against the spread.

After receiving some criticism for recent subpar play-at least by his lofty standards-Kobe Bryant answered the call with 39 points in Game 2, which led all scorers. Bryant also showed up when it mattered most, scoring seven points in the final five minutes of the fourth quarter; Thunder superstar Kevin Durant managed just two points in that stretch. Pau Gasol continues to play well, and consistent. The center posted 25 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in Game 2, giving him a 22.0 PPG and 12.5 RPG average so far this series.

The Thunder have carried a late-season swoon into the playoffs. Counting the last two losses to Los Angeles, Oklahoma City has won just twice in its last eight games. The team hasn't been any kinder to sports betting fans, as it has covered just five of its past 10 outings against the spread. The Thunder have won two straight on NBA odds at home, though they're just 5-5 against the spread in their past 10 at home.

Durant led Oklahoma City with 32 points in the loss, but he was just 12-26 from the field and faded down the stretch. He could certainly use more help, though. The Thunder shot just 39 percent from the field. Jeff Green was miserable; he scored 12 points but was just 2-11 on field goal attempts. Russell Westbrook was solid in defeat, though, with 19 points and six rebounds.

Despite the loss, the Thunder still covered against Los Angeles. In fact, the Thunder are 3-1 against the spread in their last four games against the Lakers. Being slim home favorite-and desperately needing a win Thursday-is certainly promising for Oklahoma City fans. These teams have gone under the total in three straight meetings. BetUs.com has the total set at 191.5.

Game Pick - Prediction
The Thunder pounded the Lakers in their last visit and the Lakers have struggled on the road as of late. Take the Thunder -3.5 at Brobury