This number is influenced by perception and pedigree. Boston looks like the obvious side after a 32-point Game One win. Playoff Game Twos tend to tighten as the losing team adjusts and plays with urgency. Boston’s style doesn’t always translate to repeated blowouts, and backing them at this number wreaks of an overlay. When a favorite feels this easy, it usually isn’t. The value lies with the Sixers catching the points.

The San Antonio Spurs dominated Game 1 behind Victor Wembanyama, covering the spread, but the Portland Trail Blazers showed enough to suggest improvement. With the line dropping slightly and Portland capable of adjusting, this sets up as a closer Game 2. San Antonio should still control the series, but the Blazers can keep it competitive.

Kevin Durant is expected back in the line-up after missing the series opener. Without him, the Rockets’ offense really struggled, but all that changes as he returns. The Lakers shot 61% from the field in Game 1 while getting outrebounded and committing 5 more turnovers. Surely that’s not sustainable in the long run? I’ll take Houston to cover and even things out on Tuesday.

Kevin Durant is expected back in the line-up after missing the series opener. Without him, the Rockets’ offense really struggled, but all that changes as he returns. The Lakers shot 61% from the field in Game 1 while getting outrebounded and committing 5 more turnovers. Surely that’s not sustainable in the long run? I’ll take Houston to cover and even things out on Tuesday.