LA Clippers at Seattle
Play Seattle minus the points
Like the Clippers as a possible sleeper candidate in the NBA playoffs, despite the way they seem to be backing into the playoffs. They have lost 3 of 4 with their only win a tooth 'n nail affair with hapless Portland at home. There may be more going on here, as one cannot blame the Clip Joint for not wanting to win the 5th seed from Memphis and matchup with either Dallas or San Antonio in the 1st round of the playoffs. The other alternative if they slide to the 6th seed is Denver, who they have won 3 straight against. Sure, they didn't want to lose to the horrible Trailblazers at home, as that loss would have been to embarassing to stomach, and yes, professionalism and competitivensess may surface, but it is safe to say there isn't much downside to losing for Brand and the Boys right now. They are a half game behind Memphis, and have a head-to-head left with the Grizzlies. Regardless, they are up against a team that is playing its best ball of the season right now, as the Soncis have won 7 out of 10 and 6 out of 7 at home, including victories over San Antonio. They have some guys playing for jobs next season, and the addition of Chris Wilcox has greatly benefited this team. Expect a little extra from him against his old mates tonight, as he did not always see eye to eye with HC Dunleavy. Hard-trying Sonics in double revenge mode, with motivational advantages. Seattle by 10
Play Seattle minus the points
Like the Clippers as a possible sleeper candidate in the NBA playoffs, despite the way they seem to be backing into the playoffs. They have lost 3 of 4 with their only win a tooth 'n nail affair with hapless Portland at home. There may be more going on here, as one cannot blame the Clip Joint for not wanting to win the 5th seed from Memphis and matchup with either Dallas or San Antonio in the 1st round of the playoffs. The other alternative if they slide to the 6th seed is Denver, who they have won 3 straight against. Sure, they didn't want to lose to the horrible Trailblazers at home, as that loss would have been to embarassing to stomach, and yes, professionalism and competitivensess may surface, but it is safe to say there isn't much downside to losing for Brand and the Boys right now. They are a half game behind Memphis, and have a head-to-head left with the Grizzlies. Regardless, they are up against a team that is playing its best ball of the season right now, as the Soncis have won 7 out of 10 and 6 out of 7 at home, including victories over San Antonio. They have some guys playing for jobs next season, and the addition of Chris Wilcox has greatly benefited this team. Expect a little extra from him against his old mates tonight, as he did not always see eye to eye with HC Dunleavy. Hard-trying Sonics in double revenge mode, with motivational advantages. Seattle by 10