*Record 1-1*
After a weekend hiatus from NBA predictions, I’m back and better than ever. The first matchup tonight will see the Miami Heat trying to defend their home court against the Raptors and even up the series at two a piece. Moving to the West Coast, Golden State ventures to Portland to redeem themselves after a 120-108 loss. Lets get right into it.
Toronto Raptors @ Miami Heat
After a record setting slow start to the postseason, Kyle Lowry returned to all-star form in Game 3. He erupted for 33 points on 11-19 shooting, scoring 29 of those points in the second half. However, the Raptors will be without one of their more efficient players, Jonas Valanciunas. Averaging 15 points on 55% shooting, JV has been a vital part of the Raptors this postseason, especially during this series. With Valanciunas on the floor, Toronto as outscored Miami by 41 points, but without him have been outscored by 39. To add onto this, DeMar DeRozan has yet to find his way. He has had more points than shots in only 3 out of 10 postseason games this year. Looking at the Heat, they will be without the anchor of their defense, Hassan Whiteside. Although a big loss for the Heat, their play at home this year and turn-back-the-clock performances from Dwayne Wade should reassure them. Toronto are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games, while the Heat are 9-2 ATS in their last 11 home games. Listed at the 4.5 point favorite, take the Heat at home tonight.
Prediction: Miami Heat (-4.5, -115)
Golden State Warriors @ Portland Trail Blazers
I’ll start this one off with a fun stat, the Warriors are 13-0 SU in their last 13 games on a Monday. This looks to be just another Manic Monday for the Trail Blazers. On a serious note, the Warriors have not lost back to back games all season and I don’t expect them to start now. When coming off losses this year, the Warriors defeat their opponents by an average of 15.8 points. Tonight, the Warriors sit as the 6 point favorite. In the Game 3 loss, production from their star players was not devoid, as Draymond Green and Klay Thompson scored a combined 72 points. I expect the Warrior’s bench, which as been one of their strengths all season, to return to their usual form. Take Golden State on the road tonight as they are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games.
Prediction: Golden State Warriors (-6, -110)
I agree that that the Warriors will most likely take the next game especially if Stephen Curry returns but, I disagree that Miami will win. I believe that the Raptors will pull it off with both big men missing it comes to the battle of the back courts and Demar Derozan and Kyle Lowry outweigh Goran Dragic and Dwayne Wade. I love your content and would appreciate it if you checked my blog and if you like it maybe we could both start following each other.
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