The Gambler: New Orleans Hornets

Opponent: New Orleans
Line: -2.5

Gambler's Record: 15-16-1

"Never leave the table when you're on a heater."
- The Hangover

Let me preface the use of this quote by saying that it was one of the least funny parts of a hilarious movie. It was forced, awkward, corny...anything but funny, really, but that doesn't mean it's bad advice, and I think it directly applies to the current Trailblazers.

Admittedly I am viewing this team without objectivity and through Rose Garden-colored glasses, but they appear to be on a heater.

They're not on a winning streak, but they are winning games and they're doing it with a lineup so lean that it makes Nicole Richie look morbidly obese. With each game, win or lose, the team chemistry grows tighter.

What was a disjointed season of successful inconsistency is reverting back to the unified, laughing, smiling, celebratory season of last year.

Mike Barrett likes to say that the first home game after a road trip is actually like the last game of the road trip, but I don't think that applies tonight.

The bench is lively and actively rooting for the guys on the floor, and the injured guys in suits are equally involved. The crowd feeds off that energy, and the players in turn feed off the crowd. It is a beautiful cycle.

Chris Paul is the best and he'll keep the game close, but he doesn't have the supporting cast and no matter how much he does tonight it's not going to be enough.

Portland is on a heater, and you don't mess with a heater. Especially at home.

Take the Blazers.