4/25 NBA Preview
Celtics vs. Magic - The Celtics have to do a lot to find a way to lose this series. The Magic were more competitive last game while the Celtics had Tatum out, but the Magic couldn't score enough to pull it out. If the Magic can't knock down shots at home with their backs against the wall, they will be getting swept. If you want to back the Magic, this is the best game to do so.
Pacers vs. Bucks - Giannis seemed very irritated with his team in the post-conference following their last loss to the Pacers. I expect huge games from him and Lillard to get back into this series at home. As always, the “Others” should perform better playing at home during Game 3.
Lakers vs. Timberwolves - The Lakers don't look like a well-constructed playoff team at all, but they do have Luka and LeBron, so they will be in most games they play because of those two players. However, I think Ant will protect home court advantage in this one and have a huge game tonight as the Timberwolves turn heads. If Mike Conley gets going, it could be a real long night for the Lakers. Vando is also returning to Minnesota, where he used to play, so he might have some extra juice.
Best Bets ~
Dame Lillard 30+ Pts - Damn near a legacy game for him tonight; I also wouldn't bet against him with his back against the wall.
Bucks ML - Must win for the Bucks, and they have two Hall of Famers on their roster. I think that they should pull this one off.
Kevin Porter Jr. 10+ Pts - They need to find scoring from somewhere, and he is one of the few guys on the roster who can provide it instantly.
Timberwolves ML - The crowd and the energy that the Timberwolves will be playing with will be too much for the Lakers to handle tonight.
Dante DiVincenzo 15+ Pts - I expect a huge game from him after getting into foul trouble in the last game. Like I said yesterday, the "others" always play well when they go back home.
Payton Pritchard 15/20+ Pts - Tatum is out again, and if I were the Celtics, I wouldn't even think about bringing him back until this series is over. This means 25 points are missing until he comes back. With Holiday not being 100%, I expect more volume from him.
Cole Anthony -The Magic need someone to step up, and he's the only player they have on their roster who can catch fire and affect the game to the point where they could win.
Giannis TD - After the last loss in the press conference, he was basically saying, I'll score 100 if I have to. I know what I need to do to win this series. I honestly would play him to hit a three.
