Tommy Gold's NBA 2010.02.23 Picks (241-180-6)

NBA 2009/2010 HDP & OU Record: 241-180-6, +39.35 units won (421 units risked)
NBA 2009/2010 Moneylines Record: 36-52, +4.36 units won (88 units risked)

NBA 2010.02.23 first pick:

Los Angeles Lakers @ Memphis Grizzlies

Lakers have managed well the absence of Kobe Bryant. They only lost last game, by one point, at home against Celtics. But that was a special game, where the smell of playoffs was huge. So, it was difficult to win without their best player, but that situation will not happen tonight. Tonight Kobe will return to action, and after his loss, we can conclude easily that Kobe makes his team play under a lower pace this season. Besides that, the team is improving their defense a lot, and in the last 5 games they only allowed more than 90 points to Warriors.

Memphis is struggling a lot lately without 4 losses in a row at home. Their last win at home was against the Lakers, 95-93, and since them, they are passing a letdown with a 2-6 record. Their offense is pretty good, as they can score easily in the paint and behind it. This month, they haven't reach 100 points at home in any game, including only 87 points with an OT in their last home game against Miami.

We can expect a low score game, as Kobe will return and will probably put the team playing with a lower pace. Lakers defense has improving lately so far, and on road, they are the kind of team that tries to keep a low pace always. Memphis are not passing a good moment and knows that have to play with calm and try to improve their defense as wells, and will be more focus in that than in offense.

Pick: Under 198.5 -110 (1.91) The Greek

*One unit each always.