Hmph. The NBA odds continue to surprise, at least in two of the second-round basketball betting matchups. The Celtics were left for dead after their grueling first-round matchup but have shown surprising life. Meanwhile, sportsbook players can only scratch their heads at what’s going on in the Rockets vs Lakers odds.
Magic vs Celtics odds: Game 5 Tuesday, May 12 at 8:00 p.m. ET
Basketball betting spread: Celtics -2
Magic odds supporters were clicking their heels after Orlando stole Game 1 in Boston, seemingly setting up for a dominant series win. However, after Glen “Big Baby” Davis’ drained a last-second shot in Game 4 to even the series at two games apiece, Boston has its home-court advantage back for a best-of-three going forward. Can the Magic do the unthinkable and steal a second game in Boston? Don’t count on it. The Celtics have regained the momentum and, seemingly, their legs in this series. Paul Pierce woke up in Games 3 and 4 with back-to-back 27-point efforts, keeping the Magic from keying on Ray Allen or Rajon Rondo. Dwight Howard should shine again for the Magic, but Big Baby has really elevated his offensive game and Rondo continues to abuse Orlando’s depleted guard corps. Bet on the Celtics to cover the two-point spread — perhaps easily.
NBA odds pick: Celtics -2
Rockets vs Lakers odds: Game 5 Tuesday, May 12 at 10:30 p.m. ET
Basketball betting spread: Lakers -12
Wow. If you saw the Yao-less Rockets’ win over the Lakers coming in Game 4, you made out like a bandit at your US friendly sportsbook. Whether the Lakers underestimated the depleted Rockets (who also lost Tracy McGrady months ago, remember) or the Rockets’ stepped it up in the face of adversity, basketball betting magic happened. Aaron Brooks had the game of his life, scoring 34 points, while Shane Battier chipped in 23 as the Rockets cruised to a 99-87 win and led by as many as 29 points. While the victory was inspiring, heading to Staples Center without Yao is a different story. The Lakers should be very awake after the beating they took in Game 4 and eager to make a statement. Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol should have big games as the Lakers pound the Rockets at home. The beginning of the end for Houston starts here.
NBA odds pick: Lakers -12