With all the focus on Dodger Stadium tonight, there’s another professional sporting contest happening in the city as the Clippers look to continue their dominance over the Washington Wizards. The Clippers opened as a four-point favorite and the total opened at 228.5.
- Washington is 1-11 SU in its last 12 games on the road.
- LA is 15-4 SU in its last 19 games when playing Washington.
- The Wizards are 1-4 ATS this season.
Wizards vs Clippers Game Center
Wizards Missing Dwight Howard
A team that had expectations of some success this season is really struggling out of the gate without big man Dwight Howard. The Wizards have won just one of their first five games and are currently in the midst of a five-game road swing.
The three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year would certainly make a big difference to a team that has lost games by four points twice and another by a single.
Clippers Defense is Key
LA is ninth in the league with 108.0 points allowed per game even though they’ve played some pretty strong offensive teams so far. The Clippers will get another test tonight as Washington comes in tied with Toronto for seventh in points per game at 116.8.
Washington has scored at least 109 points in four of their last five games vs LA with the OVER hitting in each of those four games. With that said, 230 points seems a little high as both teams combined season averages are UNDER that mark.
My Pick for Tonight
The Clippers have covered the spread in each of the last three meetings between these teams, going 2-1 SU in the process. With a smallish spread, the Clippers second-ranked free throw shooting could play a significant factor.
Add into that equation that Washington is committing the most personal fouls in the league at 27.2, I think the Clippers will take advantage, use those extra trips to the line to build their lead, and cover the spread.
