A slow start against the Heat ultimately cost the Spurs in their last game as they went down 116-111. So they’ll be looking for a better first-quarter performance in Boston. Which will likely come through the combination of DeRozan and Murray. Both scored 20+ pts against the Heat and Murray has a good matchup against the Celtics, who’ve struggled against point guards lately.<\/span><\/p>\n After 3 straight defeats, the Celtics got a much-needed win over the Hornets 120-111. Jaylen Brown continued his excellent form with 38 pts and should enjoy a favourable matchup against the Spurs. In terms of injuries, Kemba Walker is expected to miss this clash so Marcus Smart will continue to get more minutes\/usage.<\/span><\/p>\n The Spurs have proved to be a bogey team for Boston so we like the road underdog here. San Antonio has covered in 7 of their last 8 at this venue and have also won 16 of 18 against the Celtics.<\/span><\/p>\n Stadium Record<\/b><\/p>\n The Celtics are 5-2 in their last 7 home games. San Antonio has a strong 8-1 record at TD Garden.<\/span><\/p>\n Head to Head Record<\/b><\/p>\n The Spurs have the wood over the Celtics with 8 wins in the last 10 meetings, which includes a 110-106 victory this season.<\/span><\/p>\n Best Bet<\/b><\/p>\n Spurs +4.5 $1.92<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n The Trail Blazers have both games on this road-trip so they’ll be a confident team as they head to Brooklyn on Saturday. In those 2 wins, Portland has crushed the Grizzlies 130-109 and Pacers 133-112. Their offence should have plenty more success against a Nets team that isn’t always the best at containing high scoring teams.<\/span><\/p>\n Meanwhile, Brooklyn are hitting form at the moment with 4 straight wins. Despite missing Harden and Irving on Friday, Kevin Durant led the way against the Pacers in their 130-113 victory. Durant finished with 42 pts and he should enjoy more of the same against the Trail Blazers defence. After Irving missed Friday’s game, he’ll be questionable for this matchup so we’ll await a game-time decision.<\/span><\/p>\n We’re expecting a high scoring affair between two teams that play at a fast pace and come off scoring 130 pts. The injury status of Irving is something to consider as the Trail Blazers should take advantage if he sits. Even so, Portland has a nice record at this venue and we like their chances of an upset.<\/span><\/p>\n Stadium Record<\/b><\/p>\n The Nets are 12-1 at home. Portland has won their last 5 at this venue.<\/span><\/p>\n Head to Head Record<\/b><\/p>\n The Nets beat the Trail Blazers this season 116-112. But Portland holds a 7-3 record in the last 10 meetings.<\/span><\/p>\n Best Bet<\/b><\/p>\nPortland Trail Blazers (34-28) at Brooklyn Nets (43-20)<\/b><\/h3>\n