Friday night NBA game predictions (Nov. 22)

Prediction Tracker: 18 of 36 games correct (shooting 50%, not bad)

Part one:

Phoenix @ Charlotte – The Bobcats are dead last in offense averaging 89.0 ppg, but are fourth in defense allowing 92.8 ppg.  This has translated into a decent record at 6-6.  The Suns are currently on a four-game slide, including two losses to the Sacramento Kings.  Charlotte is the first stop on a three-game road trip for Phoenix, and the Suns need a bounce back win.  Suns win 98-90.

Milwaukee @ Philadelphia – The Bucks are on a six-game slide and the 76ers are on a four-game slide.  Milwaukee has played better teams during its losing streak, which isn’t saying much, but I think it will make the difference.  Bucks win 90-85

Washington @ Toronto – The combination of Bradley Beal and John Wall is clicking for the Wizards.  Beal is averaging 21.5 ppg thanks in part to Wall’s 9.7 assists per game.  However, the edge goes to Toronto’s talented duo DeMar DeRozan and Rudy Gay who are combining to average 42 ppg.  Raptors win 103-98.

Indiana @ Boston – Boston has lost five games in a row.  In four of those games, the Celtics were crushed.  Indiana is 10-1, and needs home court advantage in the playoffs.  Pacers win 100-87.

Atlanta @ Detroit – Atlanta beat Detroit on Wednesday because they shut down Greg Monroe, and Josh Smith had a poor shooting night.  Detroit’s center, Andre Drummond, helped give the Pistons a 43-38 rebounding advantage in the loss.  Don’t expect to see the rebounding advantage be for naught again.  Pistons win 101-96.

San Antonio @ Memphis – The Spurs beat the Grizzlies in the first game of the season at home.  Playing the Grizzlies away is the Spurs’ second toughest challenge so far.  I expect Memphis to win with Zach Randolph putting the team on his back.  Grizzlies win 93-88.