posted April 1, 2008 at 17:19 in NBA Free Picks

Philadelphia 76ers (37-37) vs. New Jersey Nets (31-43)

Tuesday, April 1 --- Izod Center, New Jersey --- 7:30pm EST

NBA Betting Line: EVEN (202)

It almost seems crazy that this game would be a pick ‘em, but the trends don’t tell the whole story. Both teams rely on a ridiculous amount of athleticism, and that means scoring will come in bunches. Philadelphia scores 96.6 points per game, and New Jersey isn’t far behind with 95.8 per match. But Jersey’s defense is deplorable and that means that Andre Igoudala and Thaddeus Young are ready to blow the roof off.

A great matchup is going to be the young Devin Harris matched up against the resurgent Andre Miller. Miller was once projected as the next up and coming point man and he’s been much of a disappointment up until this year. The career year continues with Miller, who has 6.9 assists on the year and 17.0 points per game. And defensively he’s becoming a solid stopper as well.

Yet, Devin Harris is projected to be a top-5 point guard in the league as well, so it will be interesting to see how he continues to develop as the focal point of a rebuilding phase in Jersey. Harris has a tremendously high basketball IQ for his age, sees the floor well and his length makes it difficult for defenders to get around him. And if you’re wondering why the Nets are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 home games, Harris is the reason.

The confusing thing about making this being an EVEN spread, however, is that the Nets are 0-5 ATS in their last five home games against Philadelphia. If this spread stays EVEN, you’dbe stupid not to take this game with Philadelphia in the OVER. Vince Carter and Skywalker are putting up big, consistent numbers, but that is easily staved off by the equally impressive game of Iggy. And this goes without mentioning that Samuel Dalembert, who is pulling down a 10-10 this season, is going to make it impossible for New Jersey to get second chances off of misses.

Bet safely on the Sixers. This may seem like a trap bet, but I think the oddsmakers are justifiably concerned about the back-to-back losses against Phoenix and Cleveland by Philly. Don’t be. They are a strong team, vying for some playoff legitimacy. And that starts by blowing apart spreads set from the bevy of disbelievers out there.

NBA Betting Free Picks: Philadelphia EVEN (OVER)

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