29 October 2008

Early season deluge

It's opening night for most of the league, which means we don't have much to go on for the young season.  So prepare for some guessing that's even less educated than usual, if that's possible.

Toronto over PHILADELPHIA (-5.5) - There is a lot of hype surrounding Elton Brand and the Sixers, but it may take them some time to jell.  This is a good Toronto team that matches up well with Philly down low by throwing Chris Bosh and Jermaine O'Neal at Brand and Sam Dalembert.

ORLANDO (-7.5) over Atlanta - The Magic have Dwight Howard after what is likely another summer of growth.  The Hawks did nothing to get better.

WASHINGTON (-6.5) over New Jersey - The Wiz are banged up, but the Nets aren't any good, healthy or otherwise.

Miami over NEW YORK (-3.5) - Favoring the Knicks over a healthy Dwyane Wade?  Really?

Indiana over DETROIT (-10.5) - Seems a bit early to start handing out points all over the place when we don't know enough about these teams.

Sacramento over MINNESOTA (-5.5) - Not as sold on the Wolves' supposed revival as many around the nation.  They can't guard anyone inside.

Phoenix over SAN ANTONIO (-2.5) - No Ginobili, and who knows how interested the Spurs are in any regular season game in the first place?

OKLAHOMA CITY (-2.5) over Milwaukee - Did you see the Bucks last night?  They sent the Bulls to the line 44 times.  The reigning last-place team in defensive efficiency will need some time to improve that mark.

Memphis over HOUSTON (-12.5) - Again, lots of points for opening night.  Memphis has enough firepower to stay relatively close before falling away at the end.

Denver over UTAH (-7.5) - No Deron Williams, no interest in giving more than a touchdown with Utah.

New Orleans (-5.5) over GOLDEN STATE - A certain point guard colleague of Deron Williams from the 2005 draft has no such injury concerns.

LA Lakers (-8.5) over LA CLIPPERS - Catch the Lakers last night?  They're really good.  Really.  Good.

Last night: 2-1
Season: 2-1

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