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New Orleans Hornets vs LA Clippers NBA Betting Preview |
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Written by Neil Jordan
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Tuesday, 15 April 2008 |
The New Orleans Hornets have lost their grip on the top spot to the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA's Western Conference, but they will still have an outside shot at the No.1 seed as they host the lowly Los Angeles Clippers at New Orleans Arena on Tuesday. BetOnline.com has the New Orleans Hornets –15 point favorites against the Los Angeles Clippers with the over/under set at 198 points.
Despite being 32 ½ games out of first place, the Clippers have found themselves square in the middle of the heated Western playoff battle. This club has one of the most brutal closing stretches in the league, as they hosted Houston, Denver and the Lakers, followed by road games at Golden State, New Orleans and the Rockets.
 The Clippers have dropped five in a row heading into this game, and one positive about this situation is that they should have a very high draft pick. There should be some big changes in the Clippers' roster by the time next season rolls around, as they are expected to lose Elton Brand and Corey Maggette.
The Hornets have lost three of their last four games, including a crucial fall at the hands of the Lakers. Chris Paul has gone cold lately, averaging only 13.6 points on 35.9% shooting over his last five games. Although he is still handing out 13.4 assists over that time, the Hornets need Paul to score as well, and the young point guard could be starting to wilt under the pressure.
The Hornets have won all three of their meetings with the Clippers this season, and five in a row overall. New Orleans desperately needs Paul to play at his MVP potential for the rest of the season, because the Hornets will be underdogs despite their lofty status in the West due to their inexperience. The Hornets will defeat the battered Clippers to complete the season sweep, but with the Lakers playing Sacramento at home the same night, New Orleans will probably have to settle for second place in the conference. Get your Free NBA Pick in Now!
Los Angeles Clippers at New Orleans Hornets – 8:00 PM ET
Free NBA Pick: New Orleans Hornets
For more props and odds on NBA basketball as we approach the postseason, as well as a look at our brand-new and revamped Casino, visit BetOnline.com for the most exciting experience in the sports betting industry.
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