4* NBA HARDWOOD HEAVY HITTER

Phoenix vs. Boston, 01/20/2012 19:30 EDT, Score: 79 - 71

Point Spread: -7/-105 Boston

Sportsbook: TopBet

Result: Loss

The big concern with taking the Boston Celtics to cover the 6.5-point spread against the Phoenix Suns is the injury to starting point guard Rajon Rondo, who was forced to leave the Celtics last game with a wrist injury. My sources are telling me that Rondo is going to play, which makes this a must play.

Boston has made a living this season beating up on bad teams. All five of their wins have come against teams with losing records. The Celtics have won all five of those games by at least 8 points, including a 96-73 win at home over Toronto on Wednesday.

Phoenix is getting some love after beating the Knicks on the road as a 7.5-point underdog, but backing the Suns on the road is a mistake. This isn't the same Phoenix team from years past, in fact they are one of the worst teams in the NBA. Prior to that win over the Knicks, they lost by 21 points at Chicago, who were playing without their best player, Derrick Rose.

Even if Rondo doesn't play, I think there is a great chance the Celtics still win this game by 7-points. If he does suit up, which I believe he will, I think Boston wins this game by double digits easily. If you are worried about Rondo's status, I suggest waiting till right before tip-off to place your bet.

Phoenix is just 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games as an underdog of 5.0-10.5 while Boston is just 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400. BET THE CELTICS!