Better:
Timberwolves @ Heat: Garnett and Shaq are arguably the two best big men in the NBA and they go head to head in this game. KG’s best teammate Wally Szczerbiak is having a great month of December. The talent gap between Wally and Garnett is much greater than that of Shaq and Wade. Both teams rely on players to be single-game wonders; Who will step up in this one? The Timberwolves need Marco Jaric to get past Jason Williams if they hope to have a chance. Expected Score: Miami wins 104-102
runner-up:
Clippers@Blazers: The Clippers are in a tremendous free fall after several beatings. The Blazers have been hurt with a weak West up to this point, which puts them close to the playoff picture. His biggest problem has been the inability to win close games (a measure of his inexperience). However, they should find a win against a Clipper team playing in the second game in a row. Expected Score: Portland wins 98-94
Burst:
Jazz@Lakers: The Utah Jazz are the luckiest team in the world, playing back-to-back games against the Lakers without Kobe Bryant. Kobe was suspended for two games for hitting Mike Miller in the head. In the end, it could be a learning experience for the Lakers, who definitely need to play for themselves from time to time. But for now, it’s a cashable win for the Jazz. Expected Score: Utah wins 93-78
