vlaze.com

Both games in LA have fallen under the total with no team reaching 100 points thus far. The Celtics have shown the ability to defend the Lakers and that’s why LA is only averaging 89 points in two home games in this series. The Lakers face elimination and will bring their strongest defensive effort of the series. You will see floor burns, as the Lakers will do whatever it takes to stave off elimination at home. They will get pumped up by a forgiving crowd. I expect LA to be up by margin in this game and for Doc Rivers to toss it by the fourth quarter with a quick turnaround in game 6 on Tuesday. Remember there is a cross-country flight and only 1 day’s rest between game 5 and 6. The Celtics are the older team and if it gets away from them in the second half there will be no comeback on this night. Doc Rivers got what he wanted in LA and he will look to conserve his team’s energy in the fourth quarter and there will be no fouling late to spoil the under. Bet against Celtics offense in this one. Play game 5 under 191.