As we get toward the mid-point of the opening round of playoff matches, the results have mainly (with one obvious exception in Oklahoma City) gone as expected. Today, The Big Dog is casting his eye over a series that is heading to a new city, with the hosts having lost the opening pair of games. Will a change of scenery breathe new life into the team that needs a win the most?
Los Angeles Clippers @ Portland Trail Blazers
The LA Clippers have started the playoffs in dominant fashion at home. Having won their first two games against the Portland Trail Blazers by 20 and 21 points, they will aim to continue that form when they play the first of two games at Moda Center. Bookies are certainly expecting an improved showing from Portland, with the Clippers installed as only slight favourites. It may also be safe to say that those same bookies are expecting Damian Lillard to appreciate being back at home. The Blazers’ All-Star point guard has struggled in the last two games, scoring 38 points but also shooting just 13 of 39 from the field and already logging 77 minutes on court. In sharp contrast, Chris Paul has been sublime for the Clippers. CP3 has scored 53 points on 20 of 41 shooting, while dishing 16 assists, in 63 minutes on the floor. With Paul bringing his A game in that individual battle, the results have followed and although the Trail Blazers should put up more of a fight at home, a swing of 20-plus points seems unrealistic. The Big Dog sees this being a Clippers win by around 6-10 points but the safer option is taking the visitors to cover a very skinny spread, taking a 3-0 series lead in the process.
Selection
Los Angeles Clippers -1.5 @ $1.95 (William Hill)
Tools
Results Spreadsheet
