The Lakers have had a tough start to the season, and Kobe Bryant has been getting a lot of negative press. He dropped 28 points on the Hawks last night, helping the Lakers win for just the second time this season. L.A. will be a big underdog in Houston tonight, and I think they will see a little momentum carry over, keeping this one close.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Rockets Slumping - Houston followed up an ugly win over OKC with a blowout loss in Memphis. The Rockets shot just 28.8 % from the field against the Thunder, and Dwight Howard was just 4-of-13 from the free throw line.

2. Swaggy P - Nick Young scored 17 points in 28 minutes in his return to the lineup. Don't be surprised if he makes an even bigger impact on tonight's game.

3. X-Factor - The Lakers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.

Selection: This is a play on the L.A. Lakers (8*)