Crystal Ball says OKC by double digits in Game 3

Originally Published: Apr 21, 2010 4:5 PM CDT

Im in the Denver airport updating our Thunder vs. Lakers Crystal Ball. Never thought Id be writing either that OKC is hosting LA in Game 2 of the NBA Playoffs or that OKC will win by double digits. But I am, and no one is putting me in an insane asylum.

Crystal Ball

O: EDGE LA
LA still has slight edge because Kobe was Kobe in Game 2. The Twin Towers remain a bigger concern than Bryant as Gasol is dominant alone, much less when co-big Andrew Bynum feels well.
Krystic (spell) must remain a perimeter threat for OKC and T Sefalosha simply must do what hes failed to do so farhit 18 foot wide open jumpers. Durant must play tougher and smarter and Hardens ineffectiveness is awful and reminiscent of his pitiful NCAA Tournament. Westbrook must keep forcing the issue.

D: Edge OKC
17 blocks is off the charts. So is intimidating the mighty 1-2 inside punch of the Lakers (occasionally). Look for the crowd to rev up the defense even more and for pressure to mount on the Lakers. Defense cant allow LA to own the offensive glassa ridiculous 19-7 edge in Game 2. Sefalosha must get in Kobes grill more and keep him from going off. Of course the zebras played a shameful role in this matchup in Game 2.

Coaches: Push
OKC has settled in and is not afraid of the big bad champs. This would not be possible without a gutsy and game game coach. These players love S Brooks and are adapting to his game to game subtle changes.
Phil Jackson is 2-0. He never loses when hes ahead like that and probably wont again. Thats the bottom line.

Intangibles: OKC
The home court advantage will be huge. The city will be on fire and go berserk with the first NBA Playoff games in the history of the city. The officiating cant be worse than it was in Game 2