Round 2 of the NBA Playoffs is underway with some interesting results already arising out of the first few games. We preview the two games scheduled for this Wednesday, the 3rd of May and give our betting tips below.
Washington Wizards at Boston Celtics (10am AEST)
The Wizards blew out to a lead larger than 20 points in the 1st game before Isaiah Thomas and the Boston Celtics slowly reeled them in on their way to draining 19 three point shots and eventually beating the Wizards by 12 points to take a 1-0 lead in the series. Along with Thomas, Jae Crowder proved invaluable for the Celts, draining a career high 6 three pointers while Al Horford was one assist shy of a triple double.
John Wall and Brad Beal were once again the shining lights for the Wizards, who will need to get some more help if they are to be competitive in this series. Doing so will be tough for the Wizards who lost Markieff Morris in game one and is listed as questionable for game two.
The Celtics obviously won’t have another night shooting the three pointer like they did in game one, however, their defensive capabilities against Wall and Beal are telling, having multiple guys in Avery Bradley, Marcus Smart and Crowder to throw at them will make it tough for the Wizards guard duo and we expect the Celtics to take game two.
TIP: Boston Celtics -5.5 - $1.95 at Sportsbet
Utah Jazz at Golden State Warriors (12.30pm AEST)
It’s hard to make any sort of case for the Jazz here. While throughout the season they were one of the most consistent defences in the league, it’s almost impossible to stop the Warriors team from scoring, not to mention they boast the best defence in the league as well.
One thing that could bode well for the Jazz is their current health. This is by far the healthiest Utah have been all year with Rudy Gobert and Gordon Hayward back from Round 1 injuries and Derrick Favours playing a full allotment of minutes again.
However, at their very best, it’ll be a struggle for Utah to score over 100 against the Warriors, especially away from home at the Oracle Arena. We have the Warriors scoring well over 100 here with KD back. It’s got the makings of a 115-90 game.
TIP: Golden State Warriors -13.5 - $1.95 at William Hill
