Miami at Los Angeles

This is an improved Clipper team, but the Heat are still a very formidable squad with or without Shaq. The Clippers are strong on the perimeter but they'll have a tough time with Wade tonight. Shaq's absence should help Brand in this one. Very good defensive teams that are holding opponents to <41% shooting, after 4 straight games allowing <42% are 32-69 (32%) since 1996. It's just very hard to keep up that level of play for 5 straight games. Miami is a veteran squad which should handle time without Shaq much better this season, as Walker, Posey, Payton and Williams all provide strong minutes. This line is too high. Two stars on the Heat plus the points.