Take Trail Blazers at Pistons
Game Time: 12/5/2006 7:30:00 PM
By: Alex Smart
The Detroit Pistons have had trouble covering big spreads lately, dropping 13 of their last 18 against the large numbers. That makes the Portland Trail Blazers the smart play tonight in Detroit in this battle of West versus East in the NBA.
The Portland Trailblazers enter into this road contest against the Detroit Pistons on a 5-game losing streak, both straight up and against the spread, and were outscored during that span by an average of 10 points per game.
Detroit on the other hand, has won eight of their last nine, with the wins coming by an average of just 7.37 PPG. It must also be noted that in eight home games this season, Motown has out-scored visiting teams by an average of 5.3 PPG while Portland has been outscored on the road by an average of 9.6 PPG.
Bottom line: Considering the above mentioned statistical data, and just using the basic numbers, this game has a value line attached to it that in my humble opinion favors the Trailblazers here this evening. Note that the Pistons were installed as 11½-point favorites against their inferior opponents in this spot which is the most points they have been asked to cover all season long.
Final Notes & Trends: Detroit has failed to cover 13 of their last 18 as favorite of 11 points or more. Portland is 5-1 ATS in their last six trips to Auburn Hills.
Play: Trail Blazers