20* Boston Celtics
Today I am taking the Boston Celtics as home favorites against the Washington Wizards. Washington grabbed a road win in Game 6 to surprisingly win their series in 6 games rather than 7 as I predicted. Boston has been playing great team basketball after being down 0-2 to the Bulls and heading back to Chicago but the loss of Rondo aided their efforts. The Celtics will be ready to roll here in Game 1. They can't afford to get into a 0-2 hole to the Wizards, who are much better than the Bulls. Although I expect this to be a long and competitive series, I don't think Washington can win back to back road playoff games. Take the Celtics as they keep the momentum going and win Game 1 at home!