Two games where the favourite's reputation is bigger than the matchup edge. The Spurs host Houston in Austin with a thin frontcourt behind Wembanyama, against a team that lives on the offensive glass. The Lakers' opening blowout came against a Golden State side with no centre, and the Clippers bring two.
Spurs vs Houston. Houston won the offensive glass 17-8 against Dallas and forced 21 turnovers. The Spurs are without Harris and Quaintance, Keldon Johnson is doubtful, and Fox is questionable with a wrist injury after playing 31 minutes in the opener. The Spurs' shooting should bounce back from 10 of 37 from three and Wembanyama's 1 of 13, but Houston's hot night against Dallas cools by about the same amount. Last season's lopsided meetings came without VanVleet, who is back now, and the venue is not the Spurs' usual arena. I see a close game. That's why I'm siding with Houston to keep it tight.
Lakers vs Clippers. Kessler's big opener came against a team without a real centre, and the Lakers scored 66 points in the paint. Here he meets Lopez, who had 17 points and 11 rebounds in 27 minutes, plus Jackson. The Clippers' five absences were all out when they beat Sacramento by 25, so the group is settled. Garland runs the offence, Dunn and Jones Jr. take the perimeter assignments, and the Clippers drew 31 free throws in that win. The Lakers should still win, but by a normal home margin. That's why I'm siding with the Clippers to stay within range.
