Tip Off Talk

Something funny happened to the Celtics on the way to the Eastern Conference Championship — they lost a home game.

At last, Bostonians again have a reason (other than the Bruins) to drink themselves to sleep.

It happened on an otherwise placid Wednesday evening. The 18-7 Pistons were in town, one of just three legitimate teams in the East. The final result was an 87-85 win for Detroit, dropping Boston to a paltry 20-3 and breaking their 12-game home unbeaten streak this season.

For what it’s worth, the last time the Celtics started 20-2 (best ever in franchise history) they won the NBA title.

Your TOT Tri-Plex Towers and Convention Center Plaza Lock of the Night (record 9-6-1): The Nets have lost 6-of-7 and are a 5 point dog at Miami. This is a huge matchup problem for Jersey, and they’re playing like Rutgers. Take Miami to cover that 5.

And now … Bob Cousy does his best John Stockton impression

No Oden, No problem in Portland.

With eight straight wins, the NBA’s youngest team is spoiling GM Kevin Pritchard’s youth movement plans. When No. 1 pick Greg Oden was lost to the Blazers during the preseason, the team looked like a lock for another 20-30 win season.

After starting 5-12, that ballpark estimate appeared to be an accurate prognostication. Eight straight wins have Portland sitting at 13-12 — playing themselves right out of the Draft Lottery. Oh well. Better luck next year.

The TipOff Talk Tri-Plex Towers and Convention Center Plaza Lock of the Night (record 8-6-1): Charlotte part owner Michael Jordan practiced with the Bobcats on Tuesday. The Jazz have lost 7-of-8 and are a 5-point favorite on the road. Take the inspired Bobcats to cover that 5.

And now … drunk in Portland

Not sure what else can be said. On the bright side, Kevin Garnett had something of substance to say postgame. And had nothing to do with roundball. See bottom.

Your TipOff Talk Towers and Convention Center Plaza Lock of the night (record 7-6-1) Jose Calderon is making the most of TJ Ford’s injury in Toronto. With the Spaniard running the point, Toronto has won 4-of-5 and is a 1-point dog tonight in D.C. Take Toronto to win again.

And now … Fashion Tips — Straight Eye from that Franchise Guy (wait for it at the 1:18 mark)