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The Warriors shut down Luka Doncic and the Mavericks last night. Dallas was just 11-48 from three points and that was the difference in the game. NBA Playoffs picks are now 19-14.
NBA Playoffs: Heat (-3.5) Vs Celtics $
The Celtics have a problem, multiple problems in fact.
Firstly, they are facing multiple absences right now. Al Horford was badly missed in game 1 and he is likely to remain in quarantine at least through game three. Derrick White is now also out for game 2 as he attends the birth of his first child back in Boston. Derrick is an under-rated member of the Celtics as he provides quality minutes off the bench when Tatum or Smart is off the court. Marcus Smart is now listed as probable for tonight’s matchup but he may not be 100%. Robert Williams is back in the lineup, but he too may not be at his best. All of these injuries/absences will take a collective toll on the team.
The next problem the Celtics have us is the Heat are simply a better team than the Bucks, of whom they just barely survived. Miami is playing exceptionally well at the moment and is really finding their grove. Their defence has always been near the top of the NBA, but now surprisingly they are finding success offensively as well.
Lastly, the Celtics have a problem with Jimmy Butler. Jimmy Buckets has once again saved his best play of the season for the playoffs. In fact, he outplayed Jayson Tatum in game one. If Tatum is not the best player on the court, I do not see them winning this series.
I expect the Heat to hold serve tonight and this could easily turn into homer series.
NHL Playoffs: Avalanche (-228) Vs Blues $
Colorado won game 1 of this series and I saw no reason to make me believe the results in game 2 will be any different. The 3-2 score in OT suggests the game was close but it really wasn’t. The Avalanche had the bigger share of quality scoring chances and I think they were a bit unlucky not to put in 4 or 5 pucks past Blues’ goaltender, Jordan Binnington.
I am going to keep with my plan of taking the Avalanche the rest of these playoffs even if I have to lay the big money line.
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I also coach live poker players, helping them win more often. Of course, you can follow more of my NBA writings right here at Last Word on Sports or find me on Twitter to stay up to date on all my latest blogs and helpful tips to grow your bankroll. NBA Playoffs Odds are provided by CloudBet as of writing time.
