This game is hard and this season has been hard. Game outcomes and player performance has become increasingly difficult to predict. For some this is enough to run away, try a new sport, take a prolonged hiatus or quit altogether. For others, you embrace the challenge, this is something you want to conquer and you need to win. Props to you for sticking it out. We were 2-1 for the second time in a week, and to be honest, it’s good to be in the black. I’m ready for some consistency already… we have a great slate tomorrow with some great opportunities to make up some ground. We are all on the same team here, and I want what you want… to win!
Vegas says this game is a literal toss-up. They are posting their number and challenging you to take your shot. The general betting public will typically go with the home team without factoring that there’s usually a five point buffer in favor of the home team meaning on a neutral court the Jazz win this one by five. They are travelling a few time zones to play in the drab mid-west and could be expected to come out flat. But they won’t, the Jazz are in a perfect rhythm right now and have been unstoppable in the last week. The Pacers are super athletic and deep and Victor Oladipo who has slowed down a bit is still an MVP candidate. Vegas has it right this game is a close one, but the Pacers don’t have the size to handle the Jazz in the paint. If the game plan runs through Rudy Gobert this will be a long game for the Pacers. I’m expecting a big game from the Utah big man, and the Pacers don’t have anyone that can match up. Look for the flying Frenchmen to be the difference in this one.
The Raptors go into Detroit to face a struggling Pistons team that has been getting hammered lately. The East leading Dinosaurs are humming and playing wonderful team basketball right now, while getting contribution from all starters and the bench. Demar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry are easily the best back court in the east and 2nd best in the entire league. The Raps are getting amazing efforts from the likes of Fred VanVleet and Delon Wright while crushing opponents into submission. The Pistons with Blake Griffin and Andre Drummond could go off at any time, but their inconsistency is concerning. Considering the Raptors won by almost 30 points last time these two teams played a five point loss would be a huge improvement. This is why I’m on the Raptors in this one.106-100.
NBA DAILY PICKS 1/31: Parody finally?