Best Game: Pistons @ Pacers: After finally getting Peja, Indiana loses O’Neal for 8 weeks. The Pacers will make the playoffs but will have trouble landing a high seed with the luck they’ve had. Fate isn’t exactly on his side like it has been with Detroit. The Pistons are injury-free and on pace (regardless of whether or not it happens) for 70 wins. Stephen Jackson will get 30+ on the box score. Detroit should probably win on the road today.
Expected Score: Detroit wins 92-88
Runner-up Game: Bulls @ Suns: Two of the best passing teams face off. Chicago is interesting because it has the potential to be a defensive or offensive team. Without Curry, his internal presence is almost nil. But with Amare Stoudamire out they get a reprieve. This game is likely to end.
Expected Score: Phoenix wins 110-103
Blowout Game: Celtics @ Magic: For whatever reason, these two have been responsible for some nasty games of late. Boston has done very well against the Magic in the post-Hardaway era. Whoever has the duty of protecting Paul Pierce has to play phenomenal defense, otherwise it’s all over. Another road winner predicted today when the Boston Celtics take it to these Orlando Magic.
Expected Score: Boston wins 93-78