Los Angeles vs. Portland

Portland is short on rebounding and defense, #26 during the regular season in points allowed, second-worst at defending beyond the arc. And they have key injury concerns. Big man Zach Collins (ankle surgery) will miss the rest of the playoffs, and star offensive threat Damian Lillard will play with a splint on his injured finger. The Blazers are 19-31 ATS against teams that average 23 or more assists per game, as well as an 18-34 ATS postseason run. Los Angeles has star power and great defense, fourth in the NBA in points allowed and Top 10 in field goal shooting defense and at defending the three. Also, the Lakers are 22-12 ATS versus teams that force 14 or fewer turnovers per contest. Play Los Angeles.