Chet Holmgren pulled down 10 boards in each of his final two regular-season meetings with the Lakers. In one of those he only played 22 minutes. With LA expected to struggle offensively in Game 1, I like Holmgren to control the glass and grab at least nine boards. I would also go Over 9.5 at plus money.
If the Lakers have any chance in game one they are going to need Austin Reaves to play at a high level. During the three meetings Reaves played against the Thunder in the regular season his points scored ranged from 13 to 16 points. Reaves will have to carry a bigger burden without Luka, and I do believe with the Thunder having a big lead will lead to less intensity on the defensive side of the floor. We saw this several games in round one against Phoenix where Dillon Brooks flourished in second halves. Look for Reaves to benefit and clear his points prop.
Mamukelashvili (illness) is listed as questionable for Friday's game against Portland.
Thiero (knee) isn't listed on the injury report ahead of Friday's game against Portland.
Williams (back) has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Grizzlies.
James was assigned Thursday to the G League's Coachella Valley Lakers, per NBA reporter Marc Stein.
Williams contributed 10 points (3-7 FG, 1-4 3Pt, 3-3 FT), four rebounds, one assist and two steals in 23 minutes during Wednesday's 116-103 victory over the Kings.
LaRavia contributed nine points (3-3 FG, 2-2 3Pt, 1-2 FT), two rebounds, two assists, one block and one steal across 21 minutes during Wednesday's 116-103 victory over Sacramento.
The Lakers recalled Thiero (knee) from the G League's Coachella Valley Lakers on Thursday, per Ryan Ward of SI.com.
Peavy finished Wednesday's 124-116 win over the Cavaliers with two points (1-6 FG, 0-2 3Pt), nine rebounds, one assist and one steal over 26 minutes.
Caruso produced seven points (1-3 FG, 1-2 3Pt, 4-4 FT), four rebounds and three assists over 20 minutes during Wednesday's 124-116 win over Cleveland.
Stirtz contributed 16 points (6-9 FG, 4-7 3Pt), one rebound, one assist and two steals in 22 minutes during Wednesday's 124-116 win over the Cavaliers.
