NBA playoff schedule, odds, predictions for Pistons vs. Cavaliers, Thunder vs. Lakers

Pistons at Cavaliers Game 3 prediction

Detroit had the league's second-best defense in the regular season, and it stifled the Cavaliers in the first two games of this series. The big question heading into Game 3 is simple: Can Cleveland find itself on offense?

I say yes. The Cavs have a ton of firepower, and if they can just avoid another slow start and limit their turnovers, they can make this series interesting. The third quarter of Thursday's game should be the blueprint. Pick: Cavaliers (-4.5)

Thunder at Lakers Game 3 prediction

We've seen the Lakers get the ball out of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's hands. We've seen LeBron James and Austin Reaves generate good looks against a tough-as-nails defense. We've seen Rui Hachimura knock down 3 after 3. So far, none of it has mattered.

Even with Jalen Williams sidelined, there's a massive gap between the defending champs and the Luka-less Lakers. Maybe OKC has an awful shooting night and this ends up being tight down the stretch, but I don't think that's the likeliest scenario here. Coming into the series, I predicted a sweep, and nothing that has happened in the first two games makes me feel differently about this series. Pick: Thunder (-8.5)