The last two times the Rockets played the Lakers were perfect displays of how not to shoot and how not to defend the 3-pointer. In the last meeting, a 113-97 Houston win in the bubble, the Rockets went 21-of-57 (36.8 percent) from deep while the Lakers went just 2-of-19 (10.5 percent). In February, the Lakers shot 9-of-31 from deep (29.0 percent) while the Rockets went 19-of-42 (45.2 percent). Two Rocket wins, lots of 3-balls. I look for something similar tonight. Rockets get the cover, likely win too.

James Harden won't have to face Lu Dort in this round, which means he should go off like usual. The Lakers will dominate inside, but the Rockets should counter that edge with a barrage of treys. Houston beat LA 121-111 in the most recent matchup, Feb. 6. Grab the points in Game 1.