NBA Preview: Lakers and Mavs Highlight Busy Wednesday Schedule

All but four NBA teams are in action tonight but despite the wealth of action elsewhere, all eyes will be on Dallas as the Mavericks host the Lakers.

Time to make a run
The Lakers have walked the walk in spurts this season. Monday’s victory over the Thunder established Los Angeles as the front runners in the race for the second seed in the Western Conference. They face a brutal schedule down the stretch but could record a big road win tonight. The Lakers take on the ailing Mavericks, a team that is 2-9 in their last 11 games. Dirk Nowitzki has returned to the line-up but Dallas have lost both games since his return. A visit from the Lakers is the last thing the Mavs need right now. Consistency is going to be critical for the Lakers tonight. While Kobe is always important for the Lakers, LA needs to free him up more tonight. The Mavericks have been able to slow Black Mamba more than most teams. A big night for Kobe should be enough to secure a road win. Bet on the LA Lakers as -3.5 favorites with Sports Interaction.

Melo matters
Carmelo Anthony might not be in Denver for much longer but the Nuggets better make the most of him while he’s still in town. On top of his own scoring contributions, Melo’s tendency to draw coverage makes the players around him better and there are even stats to prove it. Reports that he could see limited action for the Nuggets tonight should influence NBA betting.

The Thunder pay a visit to Denver in a game which sees two teams with very different ambitions square off. Denver will be happy just to make it to the post-season, especially if Melo goes, but OKC have their eyes on the second seed. After a humbling loss on Monday, I like Kevin Durant and friends to return to winning ways tonight. Bet on the Oklahoma City Thunder as +3.5 underdogs with Sports Interaction.

Knicks need to stop slide
The redemption of the New York Knicks has been one of the stories of the season in the NBA. They may not have landed LeBron but Amare Stoudemire has helped turn this franchise around. They arrive in Houston however having lost three straight and need to start winning again. Cutting down turnovers will be crucial for the Knicks tonight. An improved contribution from Raymond Felton should prove the difference tonight. Bet on the New York Knicks as +2.5 underdogs with Sports Interaction.