New Jersey is playing for the third time in four days and off a big win at Milwaukee. Lay the points on the Boston Celtics tonight when they travel to take on the Nets.
Energy is a key word when handicapping the NBA. Figure out which team will have it and the other won't, and your chances of cashing are good. Look for Boston to have it in today's road matchup against the Nets, a team they've beaten seven straight times. This includes two mid-January victories by a combined 52 points.
Boston is just 3-2 since losing Kevin Garnett. The Celtics also are without injured big man Brian Scalabine and Tony Allen. Boston was embarrassed in its last game, losing at home on Sunday to Detroit, 105-95.
The Celtics are one of three elite teams in the East. The other two are Cleveland and Orlando. The Celitcs host the Cavaliers on Friday followed by a home game versus the Magic. The defending world champs are vulnerable right now without Garnett. They realize that. But they still have Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, Rajon Rondo and an underrated bench. Stephon Marbury, like him or not, was a big addition. He's had time to practice with his new team and will do well.
The Celtics will be motivated and focused for this matchup. They have covered 10 of their past 13 road games. They will be energized. They have to be with the Cavaliers and Magic looming and Garnett still not ready for action.
New Jersey is playing well. The Nets would be riding a four-game winning streak if they didn't blow a late lead to New Orleans. But the Nets won't have the necessary energy following their huge 99-95 road win Tuesday night at Milwaukee. Despite a terrible shooting night from their two main offensive weapons, Devin Harris and Vince Carter, the Nets came from an 84-76 deficit with less than five minutes to play to knock off the Bucks in a matchup with playoff ramifications as both teams are battling for the final playoff position in the East.
This is the Nets' third game in four days. They are off a huge victory. They got into town this morning. The rested and focused Celtics have been pointing to this matchup since Sunday.
Look for Boston to get the win and cover. This is a one-unit play for me.
Free Pick: Celtics -6 (-110)