If you PM'd me about contributing I will get back to you when I have a few minutes. Here are today's picks
Brandon Lang
Saturday ...
15 Dime Nuggets - Know what's amazing about George Karl's troupe? It's not the offensive numbers it's put up, sheesh, that's ultimately been the frustrating part of this team, because you don't know when it'll show up. Now, the intangible is not whether or not the Nuggets can outscore an opponent, it's whether or not they're going to outscore an opponent, or adjust and play defense to stifle the opposition.
All of a sudden, this is a balanced team. And trust me, I know Denver has given up triple figs in 11 of its last 16 games; but it's also won eight of those 11 contests. And when they're haven't allowed three-digit totals, the Nuggets have won eight straight now - including the first two in this series.
Thus, if Denver was at home and likely could have outran and outgunned New Orleans in a high-scoring affair, you have to wonder why it was concentrating more on defense in the Mile High City. Perhaps to get in a groove for the trip to the Big Easy?
Maybe because the defense Karl has employed has completely negated New Orleans' pick-and-roll offense Chris Paul executes. And with rumors circulating about slight dissension in the ranks, because in times of desperation the ball is being forced into Paul's hands much more, this is the perfect time to go for the jugular. New Orleans has displayed no cohesiveness.
The Nuggets can deliver a knockout punch with a win tonight. I'll take the points and look for an outright.
5 Dime Mavericks - San Antonio is finished, end of story. With the series back in Dallas, we're about to see the end of the Spurs nucleus/dynasty/roster ... whatever it is ... because at this point there are too many younger powerhouses ready to emerge, and there's still the matter of the Lakers. The Spurs have seen their glory days with this lineup, but against the Mavs, in Dallas, I just don't see it. Ginobili is out, Duncan is hurting and Parker feels the pressure to lead. And knowing how vulnerable the Spurs are right now, Dallas will come harder tonight, knowing how important it is to go up 3-1 before heading back to San Antonio. All Dallas here.
Free pick - Lakers (See daily video for your analysis on this game)