Boston at Portland

The Celtics are 0-3 on their West Coast trip after starting 16-0 vs. Western Conference foes this season. It's their first three-game losing streak of the season. Against the Suns, the Celtics had their moments, but suffered several killer dry-spells from their top scorers which doomed them. The still held the high-flying Suns to just 85 points on their home court. This defense, along with some desparation to win, is why we like the Celts here. Portland is also struggling, having lost six of their last seven games. They are 1-9 ATS in their last ten and are averaging just 86.4 ppg over their last five and assuming Boston's shooters don't have back-to-back horrible performances (38.5% from teh field last game vs. their season average 47.1%), Portland won't be able to keep pace with Boston. The Celtics are 17-6 ATS this season when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points. They are also 10-1 ATS on the road after scoring 80 or less the past three seasons. Portland is 8-17 ATS this season off a loss. We like the Celtics to bounce back here and win and cover.