Thursday, March 27, 7:30 PM on CSNW, FSSO

Philips Arena, Atlanta, Georgia

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Two likely playoff teams meet up Thursday night in Atlanta. Together the Trail Blazers and Hawks have combined for an 0-6 straight up record while also going only 1-5 against the spread over their last three games each. In the search for a positive nugget it could be said that something has to give and at least one of the squads will get in the win column for the first time in a week.

Portland could get somewhat of a reprieve as their 3 game losing streak has come in the midst of a 5-game road trip. The Trail Blazers finish the trip in Chicago on Friday night in a back-to-back game so Thursday's tilt in Atlanta could be their best chance to avoid going 0-5. Portland could get a boost with the return of LaMarcus Aldridge who has missed the last 7 games with a back contusion. The Blazers have gone 3-4 in his absence and the offense has failed to break 94 points in three straight games.

Until the Knicks dropped two games in four days with losses to the Cavs and Lakers, Atlanta was feeling some heat for their 8th playoff spot. As it stands, they maintain a 3-game lead over New York with 13 left on the schedule. The Hawks put up their own 3-game losing streak in the last week and will be lining up with Portland on the second night of a back-to-back schedule with a Wednesday night game in Minnesota.

ATS Trends

Portland is 21-15-0 ATS on the road this season

Portland is 22-14-0 against the over/under on the road this season

Atlanta is 17-16-0 ATS at home this season

Atlanta is 18-15-0 against the over/under at home this season

Injuries to Watch

Portland 

03/25/14 C LaMarcus Aldridge Back questionable
02/11/14 F Joel Freeland Knee out 4-8 weeks

Atlanta 

12/31/13 G John Jenkins Back out for season
12/27/13 C Al Horford Shoulder out for season
03/25/14 F Kyle Korver Back questionable
02/21/14 F Gustavo Ayon Shoulder out for season

Josh's Pick: Take Portland

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