Rockets vs. Lakers Game 2, 9/6/20 NBA Playoffs Betting Predictions

Rockets vs. Lakers Game 2 Prediction

The Houston Rockets surprised most NBA fans on Friday night by upsetting the favored L.A. Lakers in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals. Will the Lakers return the favor and tie the series tonight in Game 2 at 8:30 p.m. ET?

747 Houston Rockets (+5.5) vs. 748 Los Angeles Lakers (-5.5); o.u 222.5

Sunday 9/6/2020: 8:30 p.m. ET, ABC

ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, Lake Buena Vista, FL

Houston Rockets DFS Spin

Russell Westbrook played 32 minutes in Friday’s win over the Lakers, accounting for 24 points (10-of-24 FGs, 3-of-6 FTs), nine rebounds, six assists, one steal and one 3-pointer. The plan was to keep Westbrook on a minutes restriction of 30-34 minutes, and with Houston blowing the game open in the fourth quarter Mike D’Antoni was able to do just that. He was responsible for five turnovers on the night, but Westbrook being in attack mode proved to be an issue for the Lakers defensively. We’ll see if the minutes limit is increased any for Game 2, but even if it remains the same Westbrook is worth using in DFS.

Los Angeles Lakers DFS Spin

Anthony Davis (finger) and LeBron James (groin) are listed as probable for Sunday's Game 2. It wouldn't be a Saturday if AD and Bron weren't listed on the injury report in some form and there is little doubt that both of them will be out there to try and help the Lakers dig themselves out of the 1-0 hole they're in against the Rockets.

Lakers vs. Rockets Game 2 NBA Playoffs Prediction

The Lakers can rebound from their Game 1 loss and still not cover the 5.5, which is what I’m expecting. LeBron James was held in check during the fourth quarter of Game 1 as he went scoreless as Houston pulled away. The Rockets have now won both games that the two teams have played since Houston head coach Mike D’Antoni unveiled his “microball” rotation and even though LeBron says the Lakers have a better sense for their opponent’s speed, I’m not buying it. LeBron won’t allow the Lakers to get embarrassed and L.A. is too talented to get steamrolled in this series. That said, the Rockets are 6-2 against the number in their last eight games as an underdog and are 5-1 ATS in their last six playoff games as a dog. I’ll gladly take the points again in this matchup.

2020 NBA PLAYOFFS BETTING PREDICTION: HOUSTON ROCKETS +5.5