Charlotte Hornets
The Hornets enter this one right at .500 after consecutive home wins over the Bulls and Grizzlies. Kemba Walker continued his excellent season last time out, pouring in 37 points, 10 assists, and 6 rebounds. Malik Monk added a solid 18 points and 5 assists off the bench, whilst 4 other Hornets scored in double figures.
Los Angeles Clippers
The Clippers enter this one at 29-25 after a convincing road loss in Toronto last time out. None of the Clippers players managed to score 20 or more on a night where points were difficult to come by. One bright spot of late has been Rookie Shai Gilgeous Alexander, who is averaging 14.2 points, 4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists over his last 5.
Prediction: Hornets
Whilst they’ve been somewhat of a middling team this season, the Hornets do enjoy a very impressive 19-8 record at home. I think they have the best player on the court here in Kemba Walker and enough supporting talent to get the win and cover here.
Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavs enter this one at 11-42 after what has been a truly dreadful season so far. Tristan Thompson has been one of the few bright spots on the roster, averaging a solid 11.5 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 2 assists per game. Jordan Clarkson has also shown flashes this season, averaging 16.8 points of his own.
Boston Celtics
The Celtics make the trip to Cleveland at a solid 34-19 after a crucial home win over OKC last time out. Kyrie Irving again led the way, dropping 30 points and 11 assists on 14/19 shooting. The two Marcuses also had very solid days as part of the starting 5, combining for an impressive 37 points and 6 3 pointers.
Prediction: Celtics
This Cavaliers team is atrocious and simply doesn’t have the talent to guard this versatile Celtics offence. Boston wants revenge after the Conference Finals last year and will make light work of Cleveland here. At anything less than 13, I like the Celts in this one.
Philadelphia 76ers
The 76ers enter this one at 34-19 after an upset loss in Sacramento last time out. Joel Embiid was particularly solid in this one, dropping 29 points and 17 boards, albeit inefficiently. Jimmy Butler added 29 points and 7 assists, whilst Aussie Ben Simmons chimed in with 22 points and 8 boards of his own.
Toronto Raptors
The Raptors make the trip to Philly at 38-16 after a solid home win over the Clippers. No Toronto player had to play more than 26 minutes in what was a very comfortable display. Kawhi Leonard led the way with 18 points and 5 boards, whilst Serge Ibaka continued his recent form with 16 points and 12 rebounds of his own.
Prediction: Raptors
Returning home after what was a gruelling road trip, I can see Philly being somewhat fatigued in this one. Toronto took a brutal 25-point loss last time they played in Philly and I expect them to rebound here. In what should be a relatively even spread, I’m taking the Raptors for the road win and cover.