I know that the Bucks have won their last 5 and are playing well. I know about the 'classic letdown spot' the Blazers are in playing their first game back home after a long road trip. I know the Blazers just traded Gerald Wallace and Marcus Camby, cut Greg Oden, and fired their coach Nate McMillan all on one day on March 15th. I also know that quick point guards can SHRED the Blazers at times, and the Bucks have Brandon Jennings. The Bucks also just picked up speedster/shredder/slasher extraordinaire Monta Ellis. Ilyasova and Gooden also worry me a bit on the boards.
However, I am taking Portland Trailblazers -3.5 for the following reasons. I truly believe the Blazers players and fans have great faith in their ownership and management. This is the Blazers first game in the garden since March 5th and, more importantly in my opinion, since the Blazers 'blew sht up' just 5 days ago. I think that the players and fans will be very psyched up. Lamarcus, Batum, and Felton are now cemented as the future of this franchise. I'm looking for big games from all of them, as well as Wes Matthews, who the Blazers are taking a leap of faith in with the moves they made. He will be ready to prove himself here against two other young quality guards.
Although the quickness of the Bucks guards as well as a possible Bucks rebounding advantage worry me, I really like this 'spot' for the Blazers. I wouldn't be surprised to see a classic Blazers home blowout, but I think they win between 6-10. Best of luck tonight everyone.
edit: see post 12