There are five exciting fixtures on Christmas Day to start the new season.
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Boston Celtics v New York Knicks
The Celtics need to get off to a fast start in this strike shortened season. This veteran team is one of the most experienced in the league and should come out firing from the opening tip.
Kevin Garnett and company believe they can make one last run at the title and will have plenty to say in this opening encounter.
The Knicks have a superb three-man frontcourt with Tyson Chandler, Carmelo Anthony and Amar'e Stoudemire.They will score plenty of points in the coming weeks but may need a few games to find their feet.
Miami Heat v Dallas Mavericks
The Heat are on a mission this season. LeBron James has worked extremely hard during the summer and is bound to make his presence felt in the early going.
Small forward Shane Battier was added to the Miami rotation and should provide some valuable offense.
The Mavericks have looked a little rusty during pre-season but this veteran team should be ready to go on opening day. New signing Lamar Odom should have plenty to say on his debut for the Mavs.
I think the Heat will be very difficult to beat and are fairly priced at 1.61 in the match odds market.
Chicago Bulls v Los Angeles Lakers
The Bulls are set for another good year. Derrick Rose and the rest of the team should hit the ground running after a decent pre-season.
The Lakers looked a little sluggish against the Los Angeles Clippers earlier this week which is a concern. I think they Lakers may need a few games to get in to a winning grove.
My money will be firmly on Chicago and the 1.76 on offer is a bargain in my opinion.
Orlando Magic v Oklahoma City Thunder
The future of Dwight Howard has dominated the news in Orlando in recent weeks. The superstar center is desperate to leave the Magic but no trade has been agreed to this point. This is no way to start a new season.
The Thunder have trained hard during the off-season and should easily take care of the Magic. It is no surprise to see this talented team trading at 1.32 in the match odds market.
Los Angeles Clippers v Golden State Warriors
Blake Griffin and the Clippers could have a breakout year. They have impressed in pre-season and should make an early season statement in this interesting fixture.
Mark Jackson will make his coaching debut for Golden State .This team has had a complete overhaul since last season and is very much a work in progress.
The Clippers must be backed in the match odds market at 1.65
Recommended Bets at Betfair
Back Miami Heat in the match odds market at 1.61
Back Chicago Bulls in the match odds market at 1.76
Back Los Angeles Clippers in the match odds market at 1.65
