The set-up: The OKC/Houston series has been billed as the "Battle of Two MVP Candidates," the Thunder's Westbrook against the Rockets' Harden. Game 1 went to Harden (37-7-9) and the Rockets 118-87, as Westbrook scored 22 points on just 6-of-23 shooting and had more turnovers (nine) than assists (seven). However, the real surprise was Houston's domination of OKC's bigger frontcourt, as the Rockets outrebounderd the Thunder 56-41! That said, Houston head coach Mike D'Antoni cautioned reporters, "All we did is defend our home court, and that's what we're supposed to do. It's nice to play well and get the win because you have to, but this is just one little step ... in the big scheme of things. I'm sure they'll (Thunder) bounce back, and we've got to be ready to go."

Oklahoma City: Along with Westbrook's off-shooting outing in Game 1, SG Victor Oladipo was an awful 1-of-12 from the floor, while the frontcourt trio of Steven Adams, Taj Gibson and Enes Kanter combined for just 19 points and were the prime reason why Oklahoma City was outrebounded 56-41. The Thunder pressed Houston shooters on the perimeter, limiting the Rockets into 10-of-33 shooting on three-pointers but the downside was that the strategy was parlayed into a layup line for Houston.

Houston: It wasn't all Harden in Game 1, as his backcourt mate Patrick Beverley had 21 points and 10 rebounds plus challenged Westbrook defensively all game. Post players Nene (15 points on 7-of-8 shooting) and Clint Capela (14 points on 7-of-9) operated at will against the Thunder in Game 1.

The pick: No way OKC's big men don't play better in Game 2, while Westbrook almost assuredly will bounce back. Also, is it possible for Oladipo (made 44.2% from the floor this season) to shoot worse? That said, the Rockets also figure to be much better from the three-point line, as well. Make the Over a 10* play.