NBA Betting: April 14
Only three days remain in the 2013-14 NBA regular reason. All but one playoff spot has been locked up, with Memphis attempting to hold off Phoenix for the 8th seed in the Western Conference (they play tonight in a crucial matchup). San Antonio has clinched the top seed out west, while Indiana is clinging to a ½ game lead over the Heat in the East. Speaking of Miami, they can ill afford a stumble against the Wizards tonight. Here’s a breakdown of the Monday action, including latest point spreads.
MIAMI AT WASHINGTON -5
The Heat’s loss to the pathetic Hawks on Saturday dampened any momentum they gained by beating the Pacers on Friday. Perhaps Miami would prefer the No. 2 seed after dropping two straight to Atlanta and needing overtime to beat them in December. The Heat are 2-1 versus the Wizards, but lost in D.C. by 17 on January 15th when John Wall scored 25 points and dished 9 assists. Wall’s offensive production has been low of late, but 31 assists in his last three means he’s getting others involved. Washington is 6th in the East, one game ahead of Charlotte. Miami is 3-8 ATS in their last eleven road games. Wizards are 15-23-2 ATS at home. Rumor is LeBron might be rested. If he goes, Miami wins.
Bet Miami +5
CHARLOTTE AT ATLANTA +5
Both teams are in the postseason, but seeding is still a factor for the Bobcats. Do they want Miami or Indiana in the first-round, or Toronto? No offense to the Raptors, but they would be the more beatable opponent. Al Jefferson continues to be a double-double monster, averaging 26.8 points and 14.2 rebounds in his last five games. Kemba Walker missed his last two starts with a sore groin, but is expected to suit up barring any pregame setbacks. ‘Cats have won six of seven and absolutely need this one. Hawks have taken five of six, including wins over Miami, Indiana, and Brooklyn. Charlotte is 2-9 ATS in the last 11 meetings in the series. Atlanta is 5-12 ATS in their last 17 home tilts. Despite the situation, a Hawks outright win wouldn’t be surprising.
Bet Atlanta +5
MEMPHIS AT PHOENIX -3
For all intents and purposes, this is a playoff game for the Grizz and Suns. A loss by the latter eliminates them from contention, so the pressure will be bubbling in the desert. Unfortunately for Phoenix, the Grizzles have dominated the season series, going 3-0 due in large part to their stellar defense. The Suns can pile up the points, but they struggle on the glass and their defense as a whole is subpar. Eric Bledsoe has totaled 59 points in his last two and he’ll need to stay hot for Phoenix to come away with a must win. Memphis is playing back-to-back nights and their third game in four days. Grizzlies are 0-7 ATS in their last seven on the road. The Suns are 22-16-2 ATS at home. Tough call here.
Bet Phoenix -3
