Milwaukee Bucks
The Bucks clinched the best record in the NBA this season with an impressive road win in Philadelphia last time out. Giannis took over as per usual, dropping an astounding stat line of 45 points, 13 boards, 6 assists, and 5 blocks. Khris Middleton continued his strong supporting role, adding a further 22 points of his own. Even George Hill got into the act off the bench, pouring in a well-rounded 20 points, 5 boards, and 5 assists.
Brooklyn Nets
The Nets enter this one at 39-40 and in real danger of actually missing the playoffs this season. This is despite the strong recent displays of D’Angelo Russell, who dropped 27 points, 7 boards, and 6 assists against Toronto last time out. Jarrett Allen continues to feast on the interior, going 6-6 from the field and adding 9 boards. Spencer Dinwiddie has also been electric as a 6th man, adding 14 points and 5 assists of his own last time out.
Prediction: Nets at the Line
While no line is officially out for this game yet, I’m confident it will be in double digits. At that kind of number, I’ve got to take a Nets side that is still fighting for their playoff lives. Milwaukee could very well be off their game here or even rest some starters, meaning the upset potential is high in this one. I recommend a go on Brooklyn both ATS and on the moneyline.
Chicago Bulls
The Bulls enter this one at 22-57 after a rare road win in Washington last time out. Walter Lemon Jnr completely balled out, showing his quality at this level with 24 points and 8 assists. Jakarr Sampson is also making the most of his NBA revival attempt, adding 18 points and 9 boards of his own. Even Ryan Arcidiacono is making a claim for the Bulls PG spot, dropping 11 points, 5 boards, and 4 assists.
Philadelphia 76ers
Despite a talented roster, the Sixers have been in atrocious form of late, losing 3 straight games. Joel Embiid put up a monstrous triple-double in his return from injury last time out, however he did shoot an inefficient 12-31 from the field. JJ Redick helped pick up the slack in Jimmy Butler’s absence, dropping an efficient 29 points and 3 assists. The Sixers will need more from Ben Simmons going forward, with the Aussie having just 6 points and 4 boards last time out.
Prediction: 76ers at the Line
After 3 straight disappointing losses, I expect Philly to be healthy and motivated in this one. They still need 2 wins to clinch the #3 seed and it’d be a disaster for them to fall into the 4-5 matchup. They’re obviously a far more talented side than Chicago and should be looking for revenge after a loss to the Bulls last time out. Especially against the porous Bulls defence, expect Simmons and Embiid to go wild in a Sixers rout.