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NBA Betting Preview: Showdowns in Atlanta & Utah

Written by Steve Janus

nba-predictions-010709 The Orlando Magic sit at the top of the standings in the NBA’s Southeast Division, but the Atlanta Hawks are just 4 games back and could close some major ground with a win tonight on their home court. The Hawks have been on the money at home this season at 15-2, but they really haven’t been great against the point spread at just 9-8. Meanwhile, the Magic have been one of the best road teams in the NBA this season, marking a 12-5 record both straight up and against the spread as the visitor.

What’s been impressive about both of these teams is their ability to score at will on offense, while maintaining a solid defense. Orlando averages 100.2 points per game and allows just 93.1 points per game, while the Hawks average 98.2 points per game (100.1 ppg at home) and allow 94.9 points per game (93.4 ppg at home). With the Hawks playing on their home hardwood, these teams are very evenly matched. The teams have met just once this season, with the Hawks walking into Orlando and defeating the Magic 99-85 as 8.5 point underdogs.

Tonight the Magic have a chance to revenge that loss, and I think they get the job done. Atlanta has been great, but the Magic have a slight edge with revenge on their mind tonight.

Take the Orlando Magic +2

Predicted Score: Orlando Magic 98, Atlanta Hawks 90

The New Orleans Hornets try to maintain their momentum from a huge win over the Lakers in L.A. last night as they face another strong home team tonight in the Utah Jazz. Utah has had some ups and downs against the Hornets in the past, but one thing is for sure, and that is that the Jazz are one of the best home teams in the NBA. They are 13-4 in Utah with a solid 10-7 record against the point spread. New Orleans has won more than they’ve lost on the road this year (10-6), which is a good thing, but they’ve covered the spread in just 7 of their 16 road games this season.

Give the edge to the Jazz for their outstanding play at home this year. Utah scores nearly 3 points more per game at home, and allows nearly 3 points per game less, a solid 6 point swing. New Orleans stays strong on offense on the road, but they’ve shown a slight dip in the ability to shoot from three-point range away from their home court. Look for rebounds to be a major factor in tonight’s game, with the Jazz holding a significant edge in both defensive and offensive boards. The Jazz get it done, coming in just over the number.

Take the Utah Jazz -4.5

Predicted Score: Utah Jazz 97, New Orleans Hornets 89

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