The Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs open up the second round of the NBA Playoffs on Saturday night. The game is scheduled for an 8:30 p.m. start time and it will be televised nationally on TNT. Currently the betting odds for the game have the Spurs favored by a couple of possessions to pick up the victory at home.
NBA Playoff Odds
San Antonio -6.5
Total: 201 points
The Spurs were the second best team in the league this season, behind the Golden State Warriors. In just about any other year the Spurs would have ran away with the best record in the league, but this year the Warriors were able to break history, which was the only thing keeping San Antonio from being the top dogs in the league.
Even so, the Spurs won 67 games and now have to face a Thunder team in the second round that is very good. These two teams split a four-game series during the regular season and one could argue the Thunder have the best two players on the floor in Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, a pair of superstars.
The big problem here is Oklahoma City’s ability to win a big game on the road. The Thunder were a decent 23-18 away from home this season, but it’s worth noting San Antonio lost just once at home, certainly Tim Duncan and the vets have to feel comfortable in this situation. They have the defensive player of the year in Kawhi Leonard, who will draw the matchup of most likely Durant. That will draw a lot of attention in this one, but Oklahoma City will have to find a way to rely on Westbrook with the ball in his hands.
The Spurs have a major edge in coaching here as Gregg Popovich has won five NBA titles and understands how to win in the post season. This game should be an interesting one and with both Durant and Westbrook having big games, the Thunder could hang around and stay within double digits.
Free Pick: Thunder
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