NBA Playoffs 2012: 5 Reasons Why the Lakers Can Upset the Thunder

It's been a while since the Los Angeles Lakers have actually been considered the "underdog" in a playoff series, but this year, that is exactly what they are against the young Oklahoma City Thunder.

Kevin Durant, one of the best players in the league, will not be the only concern of the Lakers. They also have to deal with the explosive Russell Westbrook, the finesse sixth man James Harden and even the tough interior presence of Kendrick Perkins.

A shorter season also favors the younger team, which the Thunder are against an older Kobe Bryant and the Lakers.

This, however, does not mean they will lose. Here are five reasons why the Lakers can pull off an upset against the Thunder.

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