As we discussed on Thursday’s edition of the Power Hours, a playoff series can change in an instant. We knew that possibility existed when Utah (59-32 straight up, 49-41 against the spread) returned home to host the Lakers in Game 3 of their best-of-seven Western Conference semifinals series.

The Lakers, who had previously won six in a row both straight SU and ATS in these playoffs, didn’t get greedy upon their arrival in Salt Lake City, dropping a 102-97 decision Friday night.

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And now we have a series.

Utah can knot things up at 2-2 by winning today’s Game 4. The Jazz opened spent most of Saturday as a 3 1/2-point favorite, but most books had moved the number down to two by early this morning. The total is either 211 or 211 ½. Gamblers can back the Lakers to win outright for a plus 150 return (bet $100 to win $150).

Although Los Angeles (63-26 SU, 53-33 ATS) saw its winning streak come to an end, it did manage a push as a five-point underdog in Game 3. Therefore, Kobe and Co. still haven’t tasted an ATS defeat since April 11.

After scoring just 25 points and grabbing 19 rebounds combined in Games 1 and 2, Carlos Boozer erupted for 27 points and 20 rebounds in Friday’s victory. Mehmet Okur was also huge, draining 4-of-7 shots from 3-point land in a 22-point effort. Deron Williams added 18 points and 12 assists.

Kobe Bryant had 34 points, seven assists and six rebounds in defeat, but he also committed four turnovers and misfired on all six of his 3-point attempts. Lamar Odom and Derek Fisher scored 13 points apiece, with Odom pulling down 12 rebounds.

The Jazz have always had one of the best home-court advantages in the league, and this year has certainly been no different. They are 40-5 SU and 30-14 ATS at EngergySolutions Arena.

As for the Lakers, they are 29-15 SU and 29-13-2 ATS on the road.

L.A. has seen the ‘under’ go 25-19 in its road games, while Utah has watched the ‘under’ cash at a 23-22 clip in its home assignments.

Tip-off is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. Eastern on ABC.

**B.E.’s Bonus Nuggets**

--The Lakers have an outstanding 16-6-2 spread record as underdogs this season.

--The ‘under’ is 10-5 in L.A.’s last 15 games.

--Utah went 20-6-2 in 28 home games as a single-digit home favorite.  

--LVSC has adjusted the series price to L.A minus 700, with Utah plus 500 on the comeback (bet $100 to win $500).

Brian Edwards can be reached at briane@vegasinsider.com.