Los Angeles Lakers +1
Lakers will come out to play today against a Magics' team that seem to be losing their touch recently. this LA team has been a sleeping giant for the first half of the season--(which is more of the case with older/more experienced teams)--however, the giant has awaken and they are ready to dominate the rest of the way. Kobe Bryant was amazing against the Knicks on Friday and that will carry over to Orlando...no surprise there. Shannon Brown is finally putting up double digits again and seem to be back in rhythm. Gasol is showing more aggression and being more physical. Bynum can and will guard dwight howard well. Although Ron Artest is still not finding his offense, his defensive lock down is much more valuable.
Miami Heats -2
(Miami has evolved since their 2 losses against the Celtics...)
Miami has lost twice to Boston already this season. The Celtics are in no condition to be sweeping an elite team right now with their injuries. Miami is the team that needs to prove something...Wade, James, and Bosh are all healthy now and are prepared to take revenge against a Celtics team that is showing some rust in this mid-season push right before the All-Star Break. Plus, beating the Celtics will increase their lead a full game more away from the Celtics, thus giving them an ok cushion as 1st place in the Eastern Conference.
