NBA Playoffs 2013: San Antonio Spurs vs. Los Angeles Lakers, Game 3

San Antonio Spurs at Los Angeles Lakers
Friday, 4/26/13, 10:30 PM EST, TV: ESPN
Opening Point Spread: San Antonio -2.5
Current Betting Line: San Antonio -5
Opening Total: 189.5
Current Total: 187
Odds Courtesy of Bookmaker

The San Antonio Spurs were 15-15 ATS as road favorites during the regular season

San Antonio has jumped out to a 2-0 series lead in this Western Conference first round matchup, as it picked up a 102-91 victory as nine-point home favorites Wednesday night, while going OVER the posted total of 188.5. The Spurs know they’ll be tested in Game 3, as the two teams will play at the Staples Center Friday night. “It’s going to change,” commented Spurs forward Tim Duncan. “The energy is going to be in their building.” San Antonio is 15-15 ATS as road favorites since the start of the regular season, which can’t be ignored when making your NBA picks against the spread.

The Spurs finished the regular season with a 23-18 overall record on the road, including a 11-15 mark versus conference rivals. San Antonio has been led by the play of point guard Tony Parker in the first two games, as he’s averaged 23.0 points and 7.5 assists, while Duncan is contributing 16.5 points and grabbing 7.5 rebounds.

Los Angeles is in a world of trouble heading into Game 3, as its roster has been ravaged by injuries, with regular point guard Steve Nash listed as doubtful and backup Steve Blake out indefinitely. “We have total confidence that we can come back and win this series,” stated Lakers center Dwight Howard. He is averaging 18.0 points and 12.0 rebounds in the series, while Pau Gasol is also contributing a double-double. Los Angeles is 1-7-1 ATS when trailing in a playoff series the last two-plus seasons.

The Lakers were 29-12 at home during the regular season, including a 19-7 mark versus conference rivals. Los Angeles has captured six of its last 10 regular season games against San Antonio when playing in Southern California, which is important to consider when looking over the pro basketball odds page. The franchise has compiled a 2-18 all-time series record when dropping the first two games.