SPORTS N STUFF

When the Los Angeles Clippers added Chris Paul and Chauncey Billups in the offseason to a roster that already featured Blake Griffin, NBA sports betting fans knew that they would be an improved team. However, few would have projected that the chemistry between those three would develop so quickly, and that the immediate result would be a Clippers team that is challenging for the top spot in the Western conference. Griffin and company will take their show on the road this weekend as they head to the nations capital, with an excellent chance of improving their record against John Wall and the Washington Wizards.

Los Angeles Clippers @ Washington Wizards
Saturday February 4, 2012 7:00 PM ET
Verizon Center, Washington, DC
NBA best sportsbook Line: Los Angeles Clippers

When the Wizards drafted Wall a couple of years ago, many would have argued that Washington would be challenging for a playoff spot before the Clippers, but that simply hasnt happened. The Wizards won just four of their first 22 games this season, and are fighting to stay out of the basement in the West.

Betting Clippers Wizards Line: Los Angeles Clippers

A big part of the Clippers early success that not a lot of people have been talking about is their home record this season, and the number of games they have played at the Staples Center compared to on the road. Los Angeles has won 10 of 12 games at home, but just three of their seven road games. The Clippers are going to have to show more of that high-flying home act on the road as they bring lob city around the country, and considering that Washington is just 3-9 at home this season, thats a good place to start. The list of players averaging at least double digits in points for Los Angeles includes Griffin, Paul, Billups, Caron Butler, and Mo Williams, so there is no shortage of scoring capabilities on this team.

Betting Clippers Wizards Line: Washington Wizards

The same cannot be said about a Washington team that ranks 26th in the NBA in scoring, and has struggled to shoot the ball both at home and on the road. Wall isnt even the teams leading scorer with just over 15 points per game. That title currently belongs to Nick Young, who is averaging close to 17 points per game. Wall does have an average of 7.2 assists, but the problem is that as good as he is at creating there isnt enough talent on this team to finish. Jordan Crawford has been a decent addition in terms of overall scoring numbers, but he can still be very inconsistent, and his play at the defensive end leaves a lot to be desired.

Betting Clippers Wizards Line: Outlook & Pick

There are several reasons why the Clippers have been an ideal best best sportsbook option this season, including the fact that few thought they would be this good so early on. However, Los Angeles has found ways to get the job done and made a statement by climbing to the top of the West standings so quickly. The one area where the Clippers have struggled has been on the road, but that shouldnt be a problem against a Washington team that logged just four wins through 22 games.

Betting Clippers Wizards Pick: Los Angeles Clippers