Los Angeles at Houston

The last three years of the Kobe Bryant era were painful. The Lakers, who were normally a high-caliber playoff team were diminished to 27 wins three years ago, 21 wins two years ago, and just 17 last year. They have regrouped, and while they are still a player away from a playoff team, they have already won 10 games this season. They have lost just six games by more than 12 points, and their last two losses came by just three and six points. Houston is getting a big season out of James Harden, but no effort on the defensive end at all, as they have allowed a staggering 113.7 points per game in their last seven contests. The Rockets may be more interested in their next game at Oklahoma City on Friday, than pouring energy into a game that looks easy. Take the points on the Lakers.