NBA Betting: In-form Knicks to oust injury-hit Clippers

 

The NBA is live on Sky Sports every Sunday and there are two truly outstanding games taking place this week featuring four teams with championship aspirations. Nick Shiambouros picks the best bets from a top-class doubleheader

 

LA Clippers @ New York Knicks

Live on Sky Sports 2, Sunday, 18:00

 

The Knicks have really come together as a team this season and have emerged as a legitimate threat to Miami in the East. Coach Mike Woodson skilfully mapped out defined roles for Carmelo Anthony, Tyson Chandler and Amar'e Stoudemire at the beginning of the season, and his strategy is paying handsome dividends. Currently 32-16 for the season, New York trail Eastern Conference leaders Miami by just 1.5 games.

 

The Clippers come to New York with a 35-17 record. This talented team is having a solid year, and they firmly believe they can win the championship. Forward Blake Griffin is averaging 18.5 points per game and is a real powerhouse inside the paint.

 

Los Angeles have had their fair share of injuries lately, and this could impact their chances of winning on Sunday. Point guard Chris Paul is nursing a bruised kneecap, and veteran Chauncey Billups has not fully recovered from an injury sustained last season.

 

That gives New York a definite edge in this encounter. They have the size to contain Griffin inside the paint and are playing at a high level. In addition, small forward Anthony looks very comfortable in his old position and will provide plenty of offense for the high-flying Knicks.

 

 

LA Lakers @ Miami Heat

Live On Sky Sports 2, Sunday, 20:30

 

In case you haven't read the memo, the Los Angeles Lakers are just an average Western Conference team. They have a modest 24-27 record, and if the season ended today, they would not make the playoffs.

 

Veteran guard Kobe Bryant refuses to relinquish leadership of the Lakers and has publicly criticised center Dwight Howard for his recent refusal to play with an injury. Howard has not produced his best in Los Angeles since joining the Lakers from Orlando last year.

 

In truth, the Lakers are not very quick these days, and it is time for some major changes in Tinseltown. The Lakers have drifted to 24.0 to win the NBA championship. This is a huge underlay, in my opinion.

 

The Miami Heat are purring along at 32-14 in the East. At home, they boast an impressive 21-3 record this season. The biggest threat to Miami in this game is the recent flu epidemic that has hit Florida. At present, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh and Ray Allen are dealing with the illness and may not start on Sunday.

 

The good news for Miami is that the great LeBron James is healthy and is having another MVP year. James is averaging 26.8 points per game along with 8.2 rebounds and 7 assists.

 

I would advise small stakes in this one, but I still fancy Miami to win. LeBron lives for these types of challenges and is capable of having a big night with whomever starts alongside him.

 

On Monday, the in-form Boston Celtics travel to Charlotte. The Celtics are the hottest team in the Atlantic Division at the moment and should easily dispense with the disappointing Bobcats.

 

Recommended Bets

3pt Back New York

1pt Back Miami Heat with advertised handicap

2pt Back Boston Celtics with advertised handicap

 

Bet HERE

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