What’s up fellas, apologies for the late post.  Had no time today at all.  Dropped 8 precious units over the last 2 days.  Let’s get some of it back tonight.  Despite the Denver win I was on the incorrect side by a mile in my opinion.  I really thought the bench of Denver (J.R, Chris, Lawson, Harrington) would keep up with the Dallas bench somewhat....incorrect.  They got blasted by the 2nd unit from start to finish.  Dallas competed without Dirk, scary to think what level this team can play with Dirk at an MVP level.  Boston really surprised me last night, once the Lakers began making a push and gaining momentum in the 4th, it actually seemed like the Celts looked like a “deer caught in the headlights” they seemed a bit deflated and lost.  Granted Perk and KG had to play massive minutes and were tired at the end.  iNsert 3 rotation bigs that were injured and I am sure we would have seen a different outcome.  An awesome accomplishment from Ray Allen, I love the science behind his shot and his work ethic.  He deserves to be the best shooter in the NBA but I am quite tired of comparisons as a player to Reggie, for those that watched at least 3 or 4 playoff series in which Reggie played in....would know there is no comparison.  Reggie is a first ballot hall of famer and a “star” player in NBA history.  Even in his latter career he could still dominate a game.  Friday’s have been good to me this year and I am hoping to get back on track tonight.  As always gents, best of luck on all your plays.  Peace - - - MAK

SAN ANTONIO SPURS @ PHILADELPHIA 76ERS

What is wrong with everyone?  Why do you keep doubting the Spurs?  It makes no sense to me.  If the Miami Heat had San An’s record and were facing Toronto and Philly at 6 point and 3 point spreads, I can guarantee all of you would back the Heat.  But since it is the grumpy old men, you continue to doubt.  I don’t.  I love Philly, I think they are an exceptional ball club who works hard and has potent enough offense to stay with any team.  But with the absence of Evan Turner in terms of offensive production, the 76ers are left with Young and Williams to do a majority of the bench scoring.  Tonight they face in my opinion the most consistent, versatile and intelligent 2nd unit in basketball.  Gary Neal, George Hill, Matt Bonner, Antonio McDyess and Tiago Splitter are damn good.  They together will out-perform sweet Lou and the Young one.  The starting 5 on Philly does not match up great with San An.  Timmy has always caused Elton problems, Blair is taking his game to a new level, a spectacular body under the basketball, amazing hands next to the rim and good defensive attributes.  Jefferson is always that X-Factor, he changed his game in the offseason to fit the new system.  Pop believes in him (thus the contract extension) Tony and Manu will battle with Holiday and Meeks and if San An can contain Iggy’s playmaking ability than this will be yet another road win for the best in the business.

PORTLAND TRAIL-BLAZERS @ TORONTO RAPTORS

The Raptors for some odd reason play exceptional basketball on Fridays.  They seem to battle tough opponents on Friday and always keep the game within grasp.  I have been impressed with their ability to fight during games.  DeRozan is making a name for himself in the NBA, Jose is playing much better and when Bargnani actually pays attention, he can be very dangerous.  Tonight Amir Johnson will miss his first game of the season.  He has been a monster for the Raps, the heart, hustle and soul without Reggie.  Without Amir look for either Ed Davis or Joey Dorsey to try and contain Big L.  Aldridge has been an all-star in my books, I honestly wouldn’t mind seeing him on the West All-Stars instead of Gasol.  Aldridge cannot be contained, especially by Ed Davis and Dorsey, there is no one on Toronto who will be able to stop him.  Bargnani may cause Joel some problems on offense, but I don’t see Toronto getting any second change opportunities with Prizz and LaMarcus on the block.  Off the bench you basically have Barbossa vs Fernandez.  Rudy always plays well against his fellow Spanish teammate Jose.  I suspect Toronto to once again fight in this game, it will come down to Wesley Matthews defense on double D, Batum’s ability to score on Weems and the inability of anyone to guard Big L.  Portland takes this one.