Friday's NBA Plays
2-Unit Play. #801 Take Orlando (-7.5) over Washington (7 p.m., Friday, Jan. 8)
The Magic have kind of been spinning their wheels over the last week or so, but here against a distracted and bad Wizards team, look for Orlando to really take advantage in this spot. Washington is a joke this season, and the suspension of Gilbert Arenas only restates that point. Magic big in this one.
1-Unit Play. #803 Take Toronto (+2) over Philadelphia (7 p.m, Friday, Jan. 8)
Seven of the last eight wins for the Raptors and they have been much more competitive on the road of late. I've just not seen anything from the 76ers to suggest they are going to climb out of the hole they dug themselves the first month or two of the season. Toronto keeps it going and gets another victory, besting Philly away from home.
3-Unit Play. #808 Take Atlanta (-3.5) over Boston (8 p.m, Friday, Jan. 8)
With no Kevin Garnett the Hawks have too much at home in this one. Their big win at home over New Jersey last time out is just what they needed to swing things back in their favor. Of course Boston will show up, but they don't have enough firepower down their top All-Star to beat the Hawks in Atlanta.
2-Unit Play. #819 Take Los Angeles (-4) over Portland (10 p.m., Friday, Jan. 8)
The Blazers are so banged up right now, but that's not anything new. The Lakers will show some urgency here, just not wanting to drop another game after a bad showing against the Clippers on Wednesday. With Kobe, Odom and Bynum, L.A. will make up for the loss of Gasol in this one and come through with a quality road win in Rip City.
1-Unit Play. #822 Take Golden State (-4.5) over Sacramento (10:30 p.m., Friday, Jan. 8)
The Warriors have found a solid groove now that they are beginning to get healthy and have more able bodies on a regular basis. 6-1 ATS in the last seven for Golden State and they will continue their strong push with another cover over a bad road Kings team. Monta Ellis again puts together another strong offensive game with some good help alongside for the home team.
5-Unit Game of the Week Play. #823 Take Cleveland (-3.5) over Denver (10:30 p.m, Friday, Jan. 8)
Denver is again short-handed, and it's not going to fair well against a team as good as the Cavs. Cleveland and King James will be able to take care of business on the road minus Carmelo Anthony in this tilt. Billups is likely to return, but I still doubt he is 100 percent, not to mention Chris Anderson is doubtful and both Ty Lawson and Anthony Carter are both in question to play. Too many injuries for the Nuggets to hold off the Cavaliers here.