[InTheHole]

Trace Adams
1000*s - New Orleans Hornets, Atlanta Hawks, Minnesota w/Slowey over Pavano Early start time has to favor the Hornets in this one, and the fact the Bugs lose this game, and they are toast also favors the team from the Big Easy.

As dominant as Denver was on their home floor, I doubt they will be able to make it translate on the road, at least not in this game.

Denver won the last series meeting in New Orleans, 101-88 back at the end of March, so taking the points would appear to be enticing, but you know how the NBA playoffs go, so my money is on the Hornets to get on board in the series with the win, and the cover this afternoon.

It's do-or-die for New Orleans, and I expect them to survive this critical game.

1000♦ - New Orleans Hornets - 1:00 pm

I think the linesmakers have a bit of a quandry here, as both games played in Atlanta were blowouts, the Hawks scoring the win in Game 1, the Heat returning the favor in Game 2.

I have a feeling this is game is going to be the game in which we see a tightly contested battle.

The Hawks were unable to break through on the playoff road last year against Boston, but the experience they gained in that seven game set was invaluable, and that should translate to a competitive effort in today's swing game.

Aside from D-Wade, this Miami team does not have a whole lot of veteran leadership, and you saw how that worked out for Chicago after they split the first pair in Boston earlier this week.

The Hawks have still won 7 of the last 10 meetings straight up, and getting points today they are the play.

1000♦ - Atlanta Hawks - 6:35 pm

On the diamond, I expect a wild one between Minnesota and Cleveland.

Both Kevin Slowey, and Carl Pavano pitched well their last time out, but their previous 2 starts left a lot to be desired, as both were hit pretty hard.

Both teams have yet to hit their stride, but I expect Minnesota to get things going before Cleveland does. The Twins took last night's game with ease, and I expect them to do some more damage tonight.

At a near pick, prefer to side with the Twins and Slowey, as I have seen enough of Pavano to know he could give up an 8-spot early in this game.

Take Minnesota

1000♦ - Minnesota w/Slowey over Pavano

♦♦Note: Both listed pitchers must start, or no action on the play!♦♦