Wednesday (2/15)

Heat@Magic: This should easily be the more closely contested of the two games between Miami and Orlando. Shaq returns to Orlando, but that has been done before. What will be interesting to see is how Grant Hill handles his first straight game since he returned, and it’s the same team no less. He should get some rest, but Orlando will need him if they want to win.
Predicted score: Orlando wins 89-87

Wizards @ Mavericks: Antawn Jamison can choose who he wants to be mad at: the East for not putting him on the All-Star team or Dallas for letting him go a few years ago. Either way, I expect a good game from him. Haywood and Diop, the winner of that matchup could give his team the edge.
Predicted score: Dallas wins 106-102

Spurs @ 76ers: Bowen protects AI and Duncan covers C-Webb. Herein lies the Sixers’ problem with depth. With Steven Hunter out and Willie Greene injured, this team doesn’t have anyone recognizable off the bench. That’s a bit different with the Spurs, who could easily include Finley, Muhammad, Van Exel or Barry in the starting lineup.
Predicted Score: San Antonio wins 97-87

Thursday (2/16)

76ers @ bulls: Chicago has done what I thought they would eventually do, and that put Deng and Gordan in the top five. Tyson Chandler will really have to keep Dalembert in check, as much of Hinrich’s game is penetrating. AI should do its best in its last action until Sunday.
Predicted score: Philadelphia wins 100-96

Rockets @ Suns: In theory, the Rockets could compete if T-Mac has a 40-point game. And while that may not sound like the biggest stretch in the world, it’s still unlikely (even against the Suns). On national television, McGrady will likely try to play the team game. And since his team is so horrible, he should be done quickly.
Predicted score: Phoenix wins 110-95