Detroit Pistons
The Pistons enter this one in excellent form, winning a road tilt in Chicago last time out. Blake Griffin was clutch down the stretch, pouring in 16 of his 27 points in the 4th quarter. Andre Drummond also continues to feast on the interior, registering another 20+ points and rebounds game.
Chicago Bulls
The Bulls fought valiantly early against Detroit last time out, but a poor 4th quarter ultimately cost them the win. Otto Porter continued his strong recent play, leading the way with 23 points and 8 assists. Zach LaVine also had another solid evening, adding 24 points of his own on 9/18 shooting.
Prediction: Bulls +8.5
With these two sides having just played, this is another classic revenge spot. The Bulls have been in very solid form lately and should look to avenge Saturday’s defeat. Getting 8.5 points, it should at least be a close one.
Memphis Grizzlies
The Grizz continued to grind last time out, pulling off a surprising upset over Utah. Mike Conley again put up a very solid display, going off for 28 points and 11 assists. Jonas Valanciunas has been excellent since the mid-season trade, adding 27 points and 7 boards of his own.
Orlando Magic
The Magic kept their playoff hopes alive with a solid home win over Dallas last time out. Nikola Vucevic continued to lead the way, dropping an impressive 20 points and 13 rebounds. Aaron Gordon was also strong in a secondary role, adding 18 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 blocks.
Prediction: Grizzlies +1
Whilst the Magic have more to play for, they’ve been inconsistent on the road this season. They don’t have the pieces to contain Conley or Jonas and I see them leaving the Grind House with a loss.
Dallas Mavericks
The Mavs are in some of the worst form in the NBA, losing 9 of their last 10 games. Luka Doncic has been one of the few bright spots on the campaign, averaging 21.1 points and 7.3 boards. Tim Hardaway Junior is also showing signs of life, averaging a respectable 15.5 points per contest.
Houston Rockets
The Rockets are arguably the league’s form team, winning each of their last 7 to sit 40-25. James Harden has continued to drop excellent numbers, going off for 31 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists last time out. Clint Capela has also been very strong this season, averaging 16.7 points and 12.5 boards of his own.
Prediction: Rockets -8
With how the Mavericks are playing, I don’t want any part of them right now. The Rockets are streaking and have a huge motivational edge in this one. 8 points is a high spread, but it’s one that Houston are more than capable of covering.