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In a volley of thoroughly entertaining Game 1s in the NBA playoffs, the San Antonio Spurs and Phoenix Suns were the pick of a bunch with a double-overtime thriller. These two bitter rivals will try to put on the same show when they meet for Game 2 at the AT&T Center. The first contest went San Antonio's way with a 117-115 victory. BetOnline.com has the San Antonio Spurs -2 point favorites against the Phoenix Suns with the over/under set at 192 points.
The Suns had every chance to win this game, showing they could match the Spurs' physical presence. Amare Stoudamire dropped 33 points to lead the way, while Steve Nash added 25 points and 13 assists for the Suns.  But for all of the Suns' efforts to impose themselves physically on the defending champions, Phoenix needs to be a little more cautious in Game 2, as Stoudamire fouled out near the end of the first overtime, while Shaquille O'Neal dealt with foul trouble all game. For the Suns to be successful in Game 2, they need to be more disciplined on the defensive end, and they also need to learn how to close out teams. The Suns had led by as much as 16 points in the third quarter, and when you are up by that much in a place as hostile as San Antonio, you have to make that lead count.
The Spurs know they are fortunate to escape Game 1 with a win, because no one could have ever predicted that Tim Duncan would hit a game-tying three-pointer at the end of regulation. It was Duncan's first three of the season, but it could not have come at a better time for the Spurs, who had been outplayed for the majority of the game. Duncan had a game-high 40 points and 15 rebounds for the Spurs, who had an enormous 72-46 edge in the paint despite Phoenix's increased physical play.
The Spurs are 2.5-point favorites at home in this contest, but the Suns are not afraid to go into San Antonio, as proven by their wins at the AT&T Center in the regular season, as well as Saturday's performance. However, the Spurs showed the mark of a championship team: the ability to win, even though you are not the best team on the floor that particular night. San Antonio should ratchet up the defense to come away with a Game 2 victory on Tuesday. Get your Free NBA Playoffs Pick in Now!
Phoenix Suns at San Antonio Spurs – 9:30 PM ET
NBA Playoffs Pick: San Antonio Spurs
For more props and odds on NBA basketball as we progress through 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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