First we got the Celtics as I think they are much better than the Magic who have basically a new team with Arenas and Turkaglu fitting into the mix. They are coming off an impressive win against the Spurs, but they'll have to back that up once again against the Celtics. Boston is 9-3 ATS in their last 12 road games and are 3-1 ATS on 2 days rest while the Magic are just 6-9 ATS on 1 days rest. Boston has gotten it done as of late without Rondo who I have said is not a huge loss considering the way Nate Robinson fills in for him. Boston plays defense and Shaq should be able to limit what Dwight Howard does. They have given up 87.2 ppg in their last 5 game while the Magic gave up over 100.
What a show down this one will be with stars all over the court. Everyone has been waiting for this game and the it's obvious the Lakers are too as they lost their last game at home on a look ahead to the Bucks 79-98. This is one of their worst home losses in some time. Kobe was ejected and that had a lot to do with it, but this should make them hungry against a team everyone is saying will meet them in the NBA Finals.
On the other side I don't see the Lakers getting any respect. Lebron and Bosh have said it's not a measuring stick game and "just another game." When you play the NBA Championship team it's not just another game. Odom and Fisher have taken an opposite take on the game commending the Heat's talent with respect. I see a more focused Lakers team that has been bored and looking for this type of game to measure where they are at. They are healthy right now they got everyone back and I don't think the Heat will have an answer down low for Gasol and Bynum. Don't think that Kobe and the Lakers don't remember losing to Lebron and the Cavs last year. Look for them to get revenge here today.
