THE HOT CORNER

[MAL VAN VALKENBURG Review-Journal, 37-30-2 (overall record)]

Today's best bet: San Antonio Spurs-LOS ANGELES LAKERS (under 1961/2)

When these teams met in the regular season, the totals were 191, 194 and 199 twice. The rule of thumb is that the games tighten up in the playoffs, and I expect the Spurs to try to muck up the game and not let Kobe Bryant and the Lakers get the offense into rhythm. The Spurs will try to make it a half-court game, and that tends to lower the totals.