NBA Pick #1: 501 Charlotte Hornets @ 502 Indiana Pacers
Rating: 4 units - Regular Play
Pick: Charlotte Hornets (+8) (Play up to +7)
Odds: -105 / 1.95 on Pinnacle Sports OR -110 / 1.91 on 5Dimes
Yesterday I took both Indiana and the Under on their game against Dallas and the Pacers did exactly what I expected them to do with their second unit being the key of the game. Barea's and Smith's absences were quite felt while Dirk isn't helping the team at all when he is on the floor. Sabonis had a +22 +/- rating in 27 minutes with 7-8 FG for 16 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists. I believe Indiana won't have this edge against Charlotte tonight, who made some changes in the lineup and the result was three easy wins in a row:
"Bridges was a catalyst off the Hornets’ suddenly-awakened bench for the third consecutive game Saturday night, posting 10 points with two rebounds and two assists in their 135-115 win over the Phoenix Suns. It marked the first time he’s cracked double figures in scoring in consecutive games since he did it against New Orleans and Minnesota on Dec. 2 and Dec. 5."
With Bridges, MKG and Hernandgomez, Charlotte's second unit is very physical and they are in a 7-game run of outscoring their opponents. With the Hornets confident right now, and with their bench giving them some good play, I think they'll be very competitive tonight and so, I'll be taking the Hornets tonight.