NBA Action – Eastern Conference Free Picks

ATLANTA HAWKS -1 over Orlando Magic

Orlando is coming off an exhausting game against Washington and now have to hit the road to the Dirty Dirty to face the home steady Hawks. While Orlando has gone 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games on the road, they’re just 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games against Atlanta. At home, Horford and Joe Johnson defend the house aptly. Atlanta is undefeated in their last 5 games straight up at home, and are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 home games as well. All the numbers are leaning in favor of Atlanta, so that’s where the money should be too.

Charlotte Bobcats +14 over CLEVELAND CAVALIERS

When I said the Bobcats were going to fare strongly against Boston earlier this week, I certainly didn’t foresee them toppling the might Celtics! With a 114-106 win over the Celtics, the Bobcats now face the monumental task of challenging King James on his home court. Cleveland has gone just 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games. Despite a very strong record against Charlotte in the past, the Bobcats are gaining steam as a heavy spread buster. No betting bandwagon is hotter right now, and as long as the oddsmakers are willing to give you double-digits, I say bet Bobcats till you’re blue in the face.

Toronto Raptors +2.5 over WASHINGTON WIZARDS

There’s something funny happening in Toronto. With Sam Mitchell G-O-N-E, Bosh has now publically stated he’s not signing with Toronto in 2010. What does that mean? That the game breaker north of the border is about to push his value through the roof! Point guard prospect Roko Ukic has been a delightful surprise in the backcourt of Toronto, and while Washington has continually been a strong home team against the spread, a tight line against an underachieving Toronto team is a hefty favor. Bet Toronto tonight as they send Washington back to the pits.

BOSTON CELTICS -10.5 over HOUSTON ROCKETS

Kevin Garnett and the Celtics need to prove to the world that they are worthy of your betting consideration. There’s no better way to do so than to beat up a Western powerhouse in your own building. After falling to the Bobcats, the Celtics are in a mode to prove that they are still a legit contender. The 72-win season was a pipe dream that burst. Now the Celtics need to get back to respect. Overturning a 1-6 ATS record at home against Houston is priority one. Bet on Boston to take care of business.

NEW JERSEY NETS -4 over Memphis Grizzlies

As far as a betting bust goes, Memphis is brutal. They’re just 1-10 SU in their last 11 road games, and 2-7 ATS in nine roadies. New Jersey hasn’t been better, but Vince Carter is still in “trade me to Cleveland!” mode. He’ll probably drop a 35-burger on Memphis tonight. And that’s when my laptop goes through my bedroom wall.

MILWAUAKEE BUCKS -7 over Philadelphia 76ers

Let’s review: one of the best teams in NBA betting against one of the worst? I’ll take my “chances” with the better bet. Well that is until they trade Michael Redd to Cleveland…