The Matchup
The NBA's schedule on Friday is packed with 12 games, but only a select few stand out as particularly interesting and relevant matchups. Cleveland travels to Charlotte to take on the Bobcats on Friday, just one day after hosting the dangerous Denver Nuggets at home. Looking on Thursday to extend their 13-game winning streak to a franchise record 14 games, their success on Thursday will certainly impact the momentum Cleveland carries with them into Charlotte. Cleveland and LeBron James in particular, will be looking to continue their high scoring ways. James scored 32 points in his last outing, also picking up eight rebounds and thirteen assists in the course of his evening against the Orlando Magic. Those looking for betting tips need look no further.
After an unpleasant start to the second half of the season, Charlotte looks to move onwards and upwards, and upset the sportsbook oddsmakers with a win over the favored Cavaliers. Charlotte lost in their last outing against the New Jersey Nets, and now sports a .500 record at 26 and 26.
Making Moves
The Cavaliers made major moves prior to Thursday's trade deadline, acquiring former all star Antawn Jamison and backup point guard Sebastian Telfair. What makes this move particularly advantageous for Cleveland is that they lost virtually nothing in return. For their part, Cleveland gave up Zydrunas Ilgauskas and a draft pick, however, it is expected that "Big Z" will likely be back with Cleveland sooner rather than later. The overall picture here is that Cleveland is a team with one focus: winning. They hope to continue their quest on Thursday and Friday, first hosting the dangerous and high-scoring Denver Nuggets, and then taking their show on the road, starting with a game against the Charlotte Bobcats.
For their part, the Bobcats surprised many with their acquisition of Tyrus Thomas in a deal with the Chicago Bulls. Media is reporting that Charlotte gave up Flip Murray, Acie Law and a protected first-round draft choice, pending league approval. The move significantly bolsters Charlotte's front line, and seems in line with the team's positioning to make the playoffs for the first time in franchise history. Thomas could potentially play power forward or center for Charlotte, but whatever his role ends up being, he significantly improves the Bobcats defense, and improve their chances at a successful post season.
The Bottom Line
Despite the interesting moves being made by both teams, the bottom line is that Cleveland and Charlotte are entirely different teams, and the Bobcats are simply outmatched in every respect here. Look for NBA betting lines to remain intact, and the Cavaliers and LeBron James in particular to have another high scoring evening, and remind the Bobcats that while they may not be out of it, they are no match for the number one team in the East.
