Not only did the Celtics have a good start to the NBA Finals but so did the “betting public” at Sportsbook.com as only 39% of the cash was on the Lakers. Midway through the 3rd quarter it wasn’t looking good for Boston bettors as the Celtics not only trailed the Lakers, but lost star forward Paul Pierce with what appeared to be a serious knee injury. Well, Pierce did his best Willis Reed impersonation, made big shot after big shot, and Boston ended up winning handily 98-88.
Now it’s on to Game 2 and the Lakers will need to find a way to put the ball in the basket more consistently. Thursday evening, the Lakers were held to 20 points less than their season average (108). The fact that they had trouble scoring subsequently assisting the Under to cover could be good news for Lakers bettors in Game 2. This season, the Lakers are a money-making 8-2 ATS after covering three or more Unders. In order to even the series back up, the Lakers will need to concentrate on playing their style of ball. Although Boston’s defense allows just 89.7 PPG, in their two previous meetings earlier this season, the combined score in each game was 201 points. So despite what happened Thursday evening, the Under (190.5) is not a ‘no brainer’ by any means.
Boston will look to do much of the same for Game 2 as a loss would surrender home court advantage to the Lakers. Don’t expect a let down from the Celtics Sunday; this season after a double digit victory , Boston was an amazing 34-17 ATS. Additionally, the Celtics have now covered in all three of their games with LA this season by an average of 11.3 points.
With the 140th Belmont Stakes, The French Open Finals, UFC 85 , and of course Game 2 of the NBA Finals; there is plenty to bet on this weekend at Sportsbook.com. Log on now to see all of the lines and the numerous props for Game 2.
Here is a sample of NBA Finals Lines, Props & Futures at Sportsbook.com:
Game 2 Lines:
Lakers +1
Celtics -1
Game 2 Total:
O/U 190.5
To win the NBA Championship
Lakers -120
Celtics -110
Finals MVP:
Kobe Bryant 1-2
Kevin Garnett 5-2
Paul Pierce 7-2
Ray Allen 10-1
Lamar Odom 15-1
Pau Gasol 15-1
Rajon Rondo 20-1
Derek Fisher 25-1
Field 30-1
