New York Knicks
After a surprise win over the Lakers on Monday, the Knicks went back to their usual ways last time out, getting demolished by Toronto. Allonzo Trier was the only Knick who could get anything going offensively, dropping 22 points off the bench. Rookie Kevin Knox is also showing some promise, averaging over 12 points and 4 boards this season.
Utah Jazz
The Jazz make the trip to New York after a very convincing road win in Washington last time out. Rudy Gobert again led the way on the interior, dropping 14 points, 14 rebounds, and 4 blocks. Jae Crowder also added a spark off the bench, providing a quick-fire 18 points.
Prediction: Over 212
With how porous the Knicks defence has been of late, I don’t see Utah having any problems scoring. I expect them to build up a relatively solid lead in this one and eventually take their foot off the gas. This should allow New York to make the final score respectable and help this total sail over.
San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs enter this one off an emotional win over Golden State last time out, their 9th straight overall. DeMar DeRozan led the way here with a controlled performance, dropping 26 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists. He was supported nicely by All-Star LaMarcus Aldridge, who had 23 points and 13 boards of his own.
Miami Heat
The Heat strengthened their playoff chances with an impressive road win over OKC last time out. Goran Dragic was dominant off the bench in this one, dropping 26 points, 11 assists, and 5 rebounds. He was complemented nicely by veteran Dwyane Wade, who had 25 points and 5 assists of his own.
Prediction: Heat +6.5
After such an emotional win last time out, San Antonio could be poised for a letdown in this one. Miami has been a sneaky good road team this season, consistently cashing spread tickets. Getting 6.5 points, I think they have the talent and defence to at least keep it close.
Portland Trail Blazers
The Blazers enter this one at 43-27 after an impressive home win over Indiana last time out. With CJ McCollum out, Damian Lillard unsurprisingly led the way and dropped an impressive 30 points and 15 assists. He is forming a nice duo with big man Jusuf Nurkic, who added 18 points and 11 boards of his own.
Dallas Mavericks
The Mavericks have been in dreadful form of late, covering just 2 of their last 10 games to sit 28-42. Rookie Luka Doncic is still performing well, dropping a 29-point triple-double at home to New Orleans last time out. Newly acquired Tim Hardaway Junior is also producing nicely, adding 21 points in that same game.
Prediction: Mavericks +10
With how poor Dallas has been of late, punters have been avoiding them like the plague. That said, I think there is some value here against a Blazers side without McCollum. With a relatively deep rotation and a strong coaching staff, Dallas should remain competitive here.