(aka How To Lose Fake Money And Real Credibility, Part 14)

What is it with guys on the trading block and injuries? Al Harrington has his back, Chicago’s Kirk Hinrich blows out a thumb, and now the biggest non-surprise of all: Knicks center Eddy Curry — who makes your fearless prognosticator look practically svelte — is having problems with his balky knee.

God help the Nets if they ever truly decide to put Vince Carter up for sale. The guy will probably get broken in half before the first serious offer comes in.

Thunder (1-5) at Pacers (2-3), 4:05 p.m.
Pick: Pacers -11.5
It’s small consolation, but at least Seattle doesn’t have to watch putrid basketball being played.

Trail Blazers (3-3) at Magic (4-2), 4:05 p.m.
Pick: Magic -7
Brandon Roy has hit game-winning shots in each of Portland’s first three home games this season. Unfortunately for the Trail Blazers, those are the only wins they’ve had all year.

Raptors (4-2) at Celtics (6-1), 4:35 p.m.
Pick: Celtics -8.5
Can’t we just skip to the part where the Celtics and Lakers play a best-of-seven series?

Nets (2-3) at Heat (3-3), 4:35 p.m.
Pick: Heat -9
I don’t like that various computer simulations have this as a 5- or 6-point game. Oddsmakers shouldn’t be allowed to use my “Never Pick A Team That’s Had A Night Off In Miami” rule against me.

Grizzlies (3-4) at Suns (5-2), 6:05 p.m.
Pick: Suns -11.5
Allegedly, Shaq is on Twitter now.

Yesterday: 5-3
Season record: 44-47-1

– Geoff