The NBA odds were stacked against the Atlanta Hawks in the first place, as sportsbook players stayed away from them, and they showed why as they were blown out of their first two games in Cleveland. Now, it looks like it’ll get worse.

Al Horford? Injured. Marvin Williams? Injured. Now, All-Star Joe Johnson could be the next Hawk on the trainer’s table as he sprained his ankle in the third quarter of Game 2, and he is questionable for Saturday’s Game 3 when the Hawks return home. NBA odds have the Hawks as an eight-point underdog right now, but if word gets out that Johnson will miss the game, expect that to shoot to double digits. This would put an extraordinary load on Josh Smith, who already has to “guard” LeBron James, and he also has to bounce back from Game 2’s terrible showing in which he shot 2-of-13, and he only managed to grab a single rebound. Mike Bibby has been low-key as well. What a bad time to run into injury problems. Stay away from Atlanta’s NBA odds for the rest of the series.

Here we go…I’m done with my UFC 97 odds for the moment, so here’s your basketball betting picks for the playoffs, starting with the Eastern Conference.

No.1 Cleveland vs No.8 Detroit

The Pistons made the worst move of the year in the Allen Iverson trade, while Cleveland’s acquisition of Mo Williams is proving to be the best. Plus, it’s LeBron. He’ll put up a triple-double at some point. (NBA betting pick: Cleveland in four)

No.2 Boston vs No.7 Chicago

The Celtics may not have Kevin Garnett for the entire playoffs, but they should have enough to get by the Bulls, who will try to make this a track meet. Experience wins out. (NBA betting pick: Boston in five)

No.3 Orlando vs No.7 Philadelphia

The 76ers slumped down the stretch, for seemingly no reason. The Magic also struggled, but their spot has been wrapped up for a while and were more concerned with avoiding injuries. Philly’s got no answer for Dwight Howard. (NBA betting pick: Orlando in four)

No.4 Atlanta vs No.5 Miami

The series with the most mystery. Dwayne Wade has carried this team all season, but the Hawks are well balanced with six players in double digits. Maybe next year, D-Wade. (NBA betting pick: Atlanta in six)