Lakers vs. Suns: Game 5 betting odds, preview, and pick

It’s time for the return of every sports fan’s favorite drinking game. Take a sip every time someone describes Tuesday’s contest between the Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns as a "pivotal" Game 5.

Davis is questionable for Game 5

The series is tied at two games apiece after Phoenix took Game 4 Sunday. The story out of that game concerns L.A. star Anthony Davis, who left after 19 minutes due to a groin injury. Sunday’s contest also featured injury news for Phoenix, on the other end of the spectrum. Chris Paul was initially slated to miss the contest, but talked Monty Williams out of that decision and played a vital role in the victory.

With Davis likely out for Tuesday’s contest, and with Paul set to play through pain, Phoenix is a five-point favorite to take a 3-2 lead in the series. They’re also -210 on the money line, compared to L.A. at +170.

The Lakers face an uphill struggle

In his entire career, LeBron James has never lost a first-round playoff series. However, without Anthony Davis and with the memory of his own recent ankle injury, one of the best to ever play the game could face a real uphill battle.

Add in that L.A.’s supporting cast put forth a real clunker Sunday, and that Phoenix will play at home Tuesday, and the Suns look pretty imposing.

Expect a low-scoring affair

It wouldn’t stun me if L.A. somehow found a way to win, but the odds certainly seem against it. The spread, however, seems very accurate, and that scares me a bit. As a player, I’d play it safe, taking Phoenix on the money line.

I’ll also take the Under, too, given that Davis won’t be suiting up and Paul may still not be at 100%. 207 isn’t a small number, and it’s one these two teams have failed to meet all but once to this point in the series.

NBA Picks: Suns -210, Under 207 points