5*

LA Lakers vs. Portland, 01/05/2012 22:30 EDT, Score: 96 - 107

Point Spread: -3½/-110 Portland

Sportsbook: BookMaker

Result: Win

The Blazers have quietly been one of the most impressive teams in the league thus far and their defense is playing great. Tonight offers them a chance to get some recognition for their fast start by beating up on the Lakers on National TV. I expect them to make the most of the opportunity. The Blazers are 26-12 SU/ATS the last 38 times they hosted the Lakers. They won 93-86 the last time that the teams played here and Portland is the fresher team as the Lakers have already played 7 games so far this season and they are an aging team. Play PORTLAND at home!