Jim Kruger Available Picks

June, 12 2008 9:00pm EST
ATS: Boston Celtics +7.5 (-110)
WIN for +2.73 unit(s)

Boston Celtics at Los Angeles Lakers

Take the Celtics +7.5 over LA

Either team could have legitimately won any of the first three games in this series.  Comebacks and runs have been common so far.  If you are a Laker fan or backer, in my mind you should be disappointed or at the least have trepidations and concerns regarding the Lakers’ chances for winning this series over Boston. 
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First, Boston did not have a lax approach in Game 3.  Now that they are only up 2-1, they definitely won’t have a letdown tonight. 
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If there was a time for LA to bring their best effort it was in Game 3.  Yes, the Lakers were more aggressive and got to the line 34 times compared to 22 for Boston.  Kobe accounted for 18 of those.  Odom once again was in foul trouble and only managed 4 points.  Gasol did get to the line 8 times, but only managed 9 points.  He was active on the boards with 12 total including three on the offensive side.   However, Boston still looks like the more physical team who could have their way with the Lakers inside.  The intensity LA showed in Game 3 was not impressive in my opinion.
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Boston’s Leon Powe came back to earth and PJ Brown only tallied 3 points and 2 caroms in 17.5 minutes.  Pierce was in foul trouble only playing 31:34 and going a miserable 2 of 14 from the field. 
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The concern I have with taking Boston tonight is point guard Rajon Rondo did not practice yesterday and wore a brace on his ankle.  He says he has a bone bruise.  If he doesn’t play, Boston loses speed and defensive ability.  They do improve their offensive capabilities with Eddie House or Sam Cassell at point guard but Rondo is a much better passer.  Tony Allen is even a possibility for Boston at point guard.  Boston won’t have a shoot around today so it truly will be a game-time decision.  If Rondo doesn’t play, look for Boston to have to slow their offense. 
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The travel across country with one day of rest appeared to have affected both teams.  Neither shot well from the free- throw line and Kobe and Vujacic are the only two Lakers who shot well from the field with the rest of the team going 11 for 39.  Garnett and Pierce combined for 8 of 35 shooting. 
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I like Boston’s inside game expect either Pierce or Garnett to come back with a much better game.  Boston only shot less than 40% 10 times the entire regular and playoff season.  In their next game they are 9-1 SU.  The injury to Rondo can definitely be a factor helping LA but a rested Boston will have a much better effort defensively tonight.
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Take the Celtics.