Better:
Rockets @ Cavaliers: If Yao Ming were playing in this game, he would be up against his down-to-earth, no-hype counterpart in Zydrunas Ilgauskas. Instead, we’ll somehow have to settle for Tracy McGrady playing LeBron James. Both are great scorers, but they don’t make their teammates better on defense. And since Houston is already a bit better on defense, they should win this one. The Houston Rockets should be a loser on the road in this game and have a legitimate shot at winning the game. Expected Score: Houston wins on the road in a bell hit 95-92.
runner-up:
Pacers @ Warriors: Both teams are trying to initiate a massive trade between themselves involving Ron Artest. Until then, both teams should try to move on. Both teams need certain players to step up. It’s been a while since Jamal Tinsley had a big game scoring-wise. Mike Dunleavy is inconsistent and should take enough shots to get 17+. The Pacers will have to focus a lot on this one because the Golden State Warriors will be ready for anything. Look at the total in this game. Expected Score: Golden State wins 104-100
Basketball picks and predictions are never as accurate a week before a game as they are on game day. Injuries, odds changes, roster changes, as well as motivating factors such as coming from a loss all contribute to the successful sporting handicap element.