The NBA’s reigning champion Thunder are just one win shy of reaching their second straight Western Conference finals thanks to their depth and versatility.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder continued to flex their playoff muscle, pushing the Lakers to the brink of elimination after a 131-108 win in Game 3.
The Lakers are down 3-0 and lack solutions on defense, putting them in a tough spot.
Oddsmakers have installed the Thunder as 12.5-point favorites on the spread for Game 4.
LeBron James and coach JJ Redick have run out of options.
Despite the Lakers holding halftime leads in both Games 2 and 3, the Thunder have responded with dominant second halves.
Thunder vs. Lakers prediction, best bet
In his illustrious 23 years as a pro, James has faced many dynasties, including the Big Three Celtics and the sharpshooting Warriors.
It was hard to overlook his all-time average of 33.1 points per game in elimination games, but this Thunder team is built differently.
One of the best aspects of their team is the depth at guard and wing, including Ajay Mitchell, who has stepped up in Jalen Williams’ absence.
Over the course of the series, the second-round draft pick is averaging 20.7 points and 6.7 assists on 53.3 percent shooting from the floor.
during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers. NBAE via Getty Images
The Lakers are sending multiple defenders at Gilgeous-Alexander, and Mitchell has capitalized on his single coverage matchup against Austin Reaves.
In Game 3, he led all scorers with a career-high 24 points and 10 assists.
Betting on the NBA?
We are riding the hot hand of the Thunder’s unsung hero.
A play on the over of his points and assists line of 20.5 (-120, bet365) is encouraged.
On FanDuel Sportsbook, if you are chasing plus money, Mitchell to record 6 or more assists is also priced at +280.
The Plays: Ajay Mitchell Over 20.5 combined points + assists (-120, bet365) | Mitchell to record 6 or more assists (+280, FanDuel)
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Mike Turay is a sports journalist and editor who closely follows the NBA, NFL, college sports and UFC. He has demonstrated expertise in both NBA and NFL player prop bets for nearly three years. Mike is also highly knowledgeable about the sportsbook offer landscape, frequently trying and reviewing the latest apps and sites.
