DEN @ MIA: Two more teams coming off losses last night, and it does not look good for Denver. If they can’t beat the Magic, they will have a lot of trouble with the Heat. Kenneth Faried has been particularly disappointing, as George Karl has limited his minutes.
POR @ HOU: Can James Harden lead the NBA in scoring? He’s off to a truly amazing start and has the green light whenever he gets the ball. Again, both teams are finishing a back-to-back, but the Rockets have to be in a better mood and have home court. Almost every Houston player was underrated in fantasy drafts and a few may still be floating around as free agents in your league. Kevin McHale hasn’t even played his hot rookies yet.
NOH @ CHI: While the Hornets got an inspirational W last night, they are in trouble against the Bulls front line without Anthony Davis (head). Fellow rookie Austin Rivers, who may not be 100% healthy, is having a rude welcome to the league. The Bulls romped by 29, gave their bench plenty of run and had a much shorter flight, so they look good to stay unbeaten.
CLE @ MIL: It’s hard to imagine the listless Cavs team that surrendered at home bouncing back to win a road game 24 hours later. Meanwhile, the Bucks coming off an uplifting victory in Boston to inspire their home opener in front of rabid fans. It should be no contest. Not that I care about the score or the spread; handicapping games is useful in setting lineups. Kyrie Irving is the only Cleveland player I’d consider using, but a few Milwaukee players could be bargains in daily leagues.
CHA @ DAL: The Mavericks couldn’t pick a better opponent for their first home game. Darren Collison is off to a very nice start and Brandan Wright has filled in well at C in the absence of Chris Kaman, who is expected to return tonight from a nagging calf injury. Rodrigue Beaubois rolled an ankle in Utah and is doubtful.
UTA @ SAS: After losing a heartbreaker in New Orleans, the Jazz have a much tougher assignment tonight. The big edge goes to the rested Spurs, who may get Manu Ginobili (back spasms) back, but don’t have to rush him with plenty of other weapons in their arsenal.
GSW @ LAC: Don’t expect Andrew Bogut to play at all; his ankle is not ready for a back-to-back. The Clippers won a “road” game in their home arena on Friday and figure to be 3-0 after this one. The only reason I’m not using CP3 in daily leagues is, he might not play the fourth quarter.