NEW JERSEY NETS ?6.5 - Quite simply, taking on the Western Conference at home always brings out the best in the Nets, as they thrive on these challenges. Last season, they were 12-2 S/U at home vs. the West, winning those games by an average of 9.9 points. Included in these efforts was an easy 97-82 victory over these Blazers, as well as easy victories over Sacramento and San Antonio. This success has carried over into this season, as the Nets are already 5-1 S/U at home vs. the West, losing only to Dallas (no disgrace), while winning these non-conference games by an average of 12.0 points! Yes, Portland has been playing much better as of late, but they did lose at home to these Nets on November 30, and they will face an even more inspired unit this time around.
