Thunder vs. Spurs Prediction: Game 3 Western Conference Finals

With the Western Conference finals knotted at one game apiece, the San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder will meet for a pivotal Game 3. Tipoff is set for 8:30 p.m. ET on Friday at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, with the game airing on NBC.

San Antonio enters as a 1.5-point NBA odds favorite with home court now in its favor. Here’s my Thunder vs. Spurs prediction for Game 3:

Thunder vs. Spurs Prediction: Game 3 on May 22

• Ajay Mitchell over 12.5 points

After Jalen Williams suffered a hamstring injury in Game 2, I like Ajay Mitchell’s chances of having a bigger impact in Game 3. I’m interested in the over on Mitchell’s scoring line at 13.5 points or better.

The Thunder are still awaiting the results of Williams’ MRI, but I’d be surprised if he’s rushed back after the season he’s had with injuries. As a result, Mitchell is in line to take his spot in the lineup.

Mitchell was the biggest beneficiary of Williams’ absence during the regular season. In the 21 outings without Williams, Mitchell averaged 14.8 points per game and cleared this scoring line 15 times. He recorded a 22.5% usage rating.

So far this postseason, Mitchell has played six games without Williams. He’s averaged 21.2 points per contest, clearing this line in all six matchups. In fact, his points prop closed as high as 17.5 over that span.

If Williams is ruled out, Mitchell’s line could climb a bit before tipoff. I like the idea of taking his over now to get the best of the number.

Prediction: Ajay Mitchell over 12.5 points

Thunder vs. Spurs Odds for Game 3

• Thunder spread: +1.5
• Spurs spread: -1.5
• Total: 217.5