Detroit Pistons
The Pistons enter this one at 22-28 after a home win over a decimated Mavericks side last time out. Center Andre Drummond led the way, pouring in 24 points and 20 rebounds on 11/13 shooting. Blake Griffin also had yet another stellar performance, adding 24 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists.
Los Angeles Clippers
The Clippers find themselves 28-24 after a narrow overtime loss to the rival Lakers last time out. Lou Williams was the offensive leader in this one, pouring in an efficient 24 points and 6 assists off the bench. Patrick Beverley also delivered a solid display, going for 17 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists.
Prediction: Clippers +1.5
This is a revenge play after Blake’s 44-point performance got the Pistons a win in LA a few weeks ago. I think the Clippers are comfortably the better team here and should play with the motivational edge. Getting 1.5 points, I think they win outright.
Miami Heat
The Heat enter this one at 24-26 after a huge home loss against OKC yesterday. Kelly Olynyk was Miami’s leading scorer off the bench, dropping a quick-fire 21 points and 7 boards. Hassan Whiteside had another solid double-double, putting up 12 points and 16 boards in just 20 minutes.
Indiana Pacers
The Pacers enter this one at 32-19, losing each of their last four games without Victor Oladipo. Myles Turner led the way offensively last time out, pouring in an impressive 27 points and 7 rebounds. Darren Collison has also shouldered more offensive load, dropping 16 and 10 against Orlando on Friday.
Prediction: Heat -3
After a horiffic loss yesterday, I think Miami bounces back quickly in this one. Their perimeter defence should contain a relatively weak Pacers offence, whilst Wade and Waiters provide enough offense off the bench to get the win and cover.
Sacramento Kings
The Kings enter this one at 26-25 after a convincing win against Atlanta last time out. 6 Kings players scored in double figures as the team amassed a very solid 135 points. Harry Giles was the pick of the bunch with 20 points and 7 boards, whilst Bogdan Bogdanovic added 16 points and 7 assists.
Philadelphia 76ers
The Sixers enter this one at 34-18 after a strong road win in Golden State last time out. Joel Embiid led the way, pouring in 26 points, 20 rebounds, and 5 assists in a dominant performance. Aussie Ben Simmons marked his first All-Star appearance with 26 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists of his own.
Prediction: 76ers -3
In the final game of their road trip, I expect the Sixers to keep their strong recent form up. Sacramento lack the defensive options to effectively guard any of Embiid, Simmons, or Butler. Expect a big day from Philly’s stars en route to a road win and cover.