Welcome back everyone! Sorry about last week, but the boss was cracking the whip, and I didn't have time to jump back to update the article. But if you listened carefully to the write-up, and made an educated decision, you would have been 2-1 or 3-0. I mean, even I wouldn't have turned down getting 20+ in a NBA contest...even if it was Miami. I just wish I could have gotten those words in writing earlier. Oh well. With the college tournament on hold until this weekend, let's turn our FULL attention to some free NBA picks for Thursday's games! On to the matchups...
Chicago (29-45) @ Cleveland (42-33)
After losing to Boston at home on Tuesday, Chicago goes on the road to face Cleveland. The Cavs hold a 25-11 record at home, but a 14-22 record at home ATS. I was pretty surprised by this, so I immediately turn my attention to the Bulls. If the spread comes out in the 7-9 range, they are the smart play. Wait and see. UPDATE: Well, the spread is out at -7.5 for the Cavs. I wish it was a point or two better, but I'm sticking with my guns.
Pick: Chicago +7.5
LA Clippers (22-52) @ Sacramento (34-40)
I've said it before, I'll say it again. Every game I pay attention to where Sacramento plays at home...they have been strong. And the numbers support it. 22-13 at home, 20-15 at home ATS. The Clippers? Well I guess Elton Brand playing on Wednesday is a bright spot for their fans. And they do look like they'll get a win against Seattle at the time of this article. Other than that, not much to cheer for these days. UPDATE: Wow. The spread is out at -12 for the Kings. I'm not so sure they have it in them to blow a team out. Switch that pick to the Clippers and hope the Brand magic continues.
Pick: LA Clippers +12
Houston (49-25) @ Portland (38-36)
One minute you are tied for the best record in the Western Conference, the next you are the 6th seed hoping not to slide out of the playoffs the last few games of the season. What a wild and crazy trip it has been for Houston the past couple months. Although Portland is losing to the Lakers at the time of this article, I like their toughness at home. I expect Houston to be the favorite, but as long as it's not a spread under 5, I think I'll side with the hometown dog. UPDATE: I hate it when the oddsmakers do this to me. The spread is out at -4.5 for the Rockets. Of course...right at my tipping point. What the hell...let's ride all underdogs this week!
Pick: Portland +4.5
OK, let's try this again. Check back tomorrow to see where the official spreads net out. I'm doing my best to keep this winning streak going!! See you on the court!!
