Basketball 
/ Nick Shiambouros / 31 January 2012 / Leave a Comment 
Atlanta's Jeff Teague scored a career high 24 points last time out
"Atlanta Hawks will be very difficult to beat and must be backed with the handicap -4.5 at around [2.0]."
There are some important games taking place in the NBA tonight as this exciting season continues. Below is a preview of three games with handicap betting advice from Nick Shiambouros.
Boston Celtics v Cleveland Cavaliers
The Celtics, 9-10 for the season, are not playing anywhere near their best and seem to be missing Rajon Rondo who is recovering from a wrist injury. The point-guard's absence has forced Boston to run their offence through Paul Pierce which is not ideal.
Boston coach Doc Rivers is concerned by the lack of effort from his rotation but I am certain he will make the necessary adjustments ahead of this game.
The Cavaliers are 8-11 and are slowly adjusting to life without LeBron James. Rookie Kyrie Irving has impressed me this season with his outstanding ball distribution. This young point-guard has a future in Cleveland and will only get better with time.
Cavs forward Anderson Varejao has a decent record against Boston averaging 14.6 points per game over the last five meetings. He is an explosive player who could make the All-Star team next month.
This is a very important game for Boston. This veteran team needs to start winning games in a hurry to secure their place in the post-season. I think they will come out firing against the Cavs and should be backed at around [2.0] with the -3 handicap. They have a deep roster and should have way too much class for Cleveland.
Atlanta Hawks v Toronto Raptors
The Hawks are 15-6 and are playing some very sound basketball. On Sunday they thrashed New Orleans 94-72 with an outstanding team effort.
Atlanta has been in irresistible form on the road and will be looking for their fourth win of a five game trip. Point-guard Jeff Teague spreads the floor well and is coming off a career high 24 points effort against New Orleans.
The Raptors are 7-14 and have lost their last three home games. Toronto has been plagued with injuries this season and will not have the services of Andrea Bargnani who is still nursing a sore calf.
Toronto has some talented players in the rotation but they have not found a replacement for Chris Bosh, who was traded to Miami last season.
I think the Atlanta Hawks will be very difficult to beat and must be backed with the handicap -4.5 at around [2.0].
New Jersey Nets v Indiana Pacers
The Nets are 7-14 for the season, and are coming off a 94-73 loss to Toronto on Sunday. This team is led by superstar guard Deron Williams who has been in fine form recently but receives very little support from the rest of the rotation.
The Pacers are 13-6 and are in superb form. On Sunday they beat Orlando 106-85 with a lethal display of shooting. Forward Danny Granger scored 24 points and was the most effective player on the floor.
The Pacers have owned the Nets in recent meetings having won the last eight. I think another victory is assured and they should backed at around [1.9] with the -9.5 handicap.
Recommended Bets
Back Boston Celtics at [2.0] with advertised handicap -3 2pts
Back Atlanta Hawks at [2.0] with advertised handicap -4.5 1pt
Back Indiana Pacers at [1.9] with advertised handicap -9.5 2pts
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