NBA Picks For 1/5/2012

It's important to note that this shortened NBA season is still early and many of these surprise played could mellow out into their norms. Nonetheless, it won't hurt to point out some of the hot and cold playing of players around the league, especially the gems that fantasy owners squander to load up on.

• It may be obvious to a few that Houston's Kyle Lowry has evolved into a true weapon for the Rockets on a nightly basis, averaging 15.3 points, 6.2 boards and 10 assists a night. Lowry is certainly a decent add to your team if you're running with a star guard to begin with. His numbers should continue to remain steady with Houston's fast-paced offense and his lengthy playing time.
• Eric Gordon is now back from his knee injury for those curious to see his play in New Orleans. He played 39 minutes yesterday against the Sixers, dropping 22 points while grabbing six boards and three steals. Gordon is a solid two-guard that can fill up the stat sheet consistently. Look for Gordon's numbers to slightly rise while playing for a Hornets team that's dying for some scoring.
• Wizards' hybird forward, Andray Blatche put up another stinker in the team's 18-point loss to Orlando. Blatche ended up with 10 points off a 5-for-12 shooting night. The lanky 'power' forward for the Wiz is a player to stay away from when drafting, he's averaging 12 points and 7 rebounds this season for Washington, but he truly lacks the consistency.
• So far, the obvious locks when it comes to consistency are: LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony, Kevin Love and Blake Griffin.
• It was a treat to see James tear it up without his fellow sidekick Dwyane Wade last night against the Pacers. LeBron charted 33 points and 13 dimes in the dominating 118-83 win over the Hawks. Tonight on TNT, he'll be in an early grudge match against Atlanta, a team that gave Miami their first and only loss of the season on Monday. Wade's status remains uncertain heading into tonight meeting.
• The scoring-minded Kobe Bryant will head into tonight's marquee match up against Portland after hanging 37 points on the Rockets two days ago. The return of Andrew Bynum has given this Laker group some more life heading into the breaks of the season. Tonight's big meeting against the Blazers as a road team will truly begin to entail how the Lakers will do against their skilled rivals this year.
• Rubio, Love and Beasley will all be on the All Star ballot for Minny fans to flood their votes in after a surprising start. Love is currently a fantasy owner's dream, jacking (and making) several three's, while averaging ridiculous double-doubles through rebounds and scoring. Love is averaging 25.7 points, 15 rebounds, while shooting 42% from beyond the arc this season.