NBA Preview: Injured Nash Could Cripple Suns in Orlando

The Phoenix Suns could be without their best player when they take on the Orlando Magic tonight. The possible absence of Steve Nash could cripple Phoenix’s offense.

Orlando can pile on the pain
The Suns have done remarkably well to start 6-5, including a win over the Lakers. The good times look set to come to a screeching halt however thanks to Steve Nash getting banged up. Nash struggled through with a groin injury against the Miami Heat on Wednesday, playing just 29 minutes and recording just 2 assists. Nash is the straw that stirs the drink for the Suns. Without him they are a lot less dangerous on offense. It came as little surprise that the Heat cruised past a wounded Phoenix team in a 123-96 blowout.

Orlando are hardly lacking in star power and the Magic should be able to capitalize on the Suns’ injury worries. Orlando were sloppy for much of the first half in their last outing, a 89-72 win over Memphis on Monday, and have some shooting concerns. J.J. Redick did not play in that win over the Grizzlies and was held out of practice on Wednesday. His absence would severely limit the Magic’s shooting options. Dwight Howard however is averaging a career high 21.2 points as Orlando have dominated on the inside.

Phoenix should be able to hang with the Magic for longer than they managed against Miami but in the end I expect the same result. Bet on the Orlando Magic as -9.5 favorites with Sports Interaction.

Crucial match-up for Denver and Portland
The Trail Blazers haven’t seen much of Greg Oden since drafting him in 2007 and fans in Portland may never see him suit up for the Blazers again. Oden is out for the season with yet another knee injury and will likely enter free agency in the summer, having played just 82 times for Portland.

The current injury to Brandon Roy is a more pressing concern to NBA betting fans. Roy is a vital defensive presence for Portland and will be sorely missed against the Denver Nuggets on Thursday night. Carmelo Anthony has enjoyed plenty of success against Portland over the years but Nene should prove the decisive factor tonight. After dominating the Knicks on Tuesday, with 17 points and 5 rebounds, the big Brazilian can expect another big night on the road. Look for Denver to dominate inside, creating plenty of room for Melo and Al Harrington to take control. Bet on the Denver Nuggets as +2.5 underdogs with Sports Interaction.