Betting tips / Nick Shiambouros / 14 January 2012 / Leave a comment Bet Now

Nick Shiambouros previews three interesting games taking place in the NBA.

Portland Trailblazers v San Antonio Spurs
The Trailblazers come in to this mouth-watering fixture with a record of 7-3 and they have every hope of continuing their winning ways -- surprisingly perhaps, Portland have dominated San Antonio over the past three seasons winning nine out of the last 11 meetings.

New signing Jamal Crawford has been shooting the ball well for Portland and will provide plenty of offense.

The Spurs are 7-4 for the season but are unbeaten at home thanks in part to point guard Tony Parker, who has been on fire for San Antonio recently. The French-born superstar scored a season high 28 points against Houston on Wednesday night.

This is a fascinating encounter between two quality teams but I must give the edge to Portland. They have owned the Spurs in recent years and should be backed with the +1.5 handicap at around [2.0].

Washington Wizards v Philadelphia 76ers
The Wizards have the worst record in basketball at 1-9. They have yet to win a road game and have been beaten by an average of 15.7 when playing away from the capital.

Washington coach Flip Saunders simply must find a way to motivate his rotation in a hurry or he will be seeking new employment in the near future.

Philadelphia have really impressed me this season. They are 7-3 and playing some superb basketball. Forward Elton Brand leads this young team who just might make the post-season if they continue to play at this level.

I cannot see Philadelphia losing this game under any circumstances. They must be backed with the -12.5 handicap at around [1.9].

Minnesota Timberwolves v New Orleans Hornets
The Timberwolves are 3-7 for the season and are a team plagued with injuries. Forward Michael Beasley and point-guard JJ Barea are sidelined along with center Brad Lee.

This is not good news for Minnesota who have lost their last two games. Kevin Love and Ricky Rubio will have to do the heavy lifting but it will not be easy to say the least.

The Hornets are also 3-7 for the season and are adjusting to life without Chris Paul who was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers earlier this year.

New Orleans beat Denver on Monday night but lost to the talented Oklahoma City Thunder 95-85 on Wednesday. I thought they played very well against the Thunder but came up a little short in the fourth quarter.

I really like the chances of New Orleans with the + 1.5 handicap. They are playing better than their record suggests and should take care of the ailing Timberwolves.They should be priced at around [2.0] with the handicap.

Recommended Wagers
Portland Trailblazers at [2.0] with advertised handicap +1.5
Philadelphia 76ers at [1.9] with advertised handicap -12.5
New Orleans Hornets at [2.0] with advertised handicap +1.5