Detroit Pistons 

The Pistons enter this one with a very respectable 10-7 record, winning 4 of their last 5 games. Blake Griffin continues to lead the way for this team, averaging an impressive 25 points, 10 boards and 5 assists per game. Center Andre Drummond has further added to the Pistons interior advantage, averaging 19.5 points and 16 boards per game on the campaign. Guards Reggie Jackson and Reggie Bullock have made for a strong backcourt this season, whilst Stanley Johnson and Langston Galloway have provided that much-needed push off the bench. Detroit have generally fared well as a home favourite this season, a trend I expect to continue here. 

New York Knicks 

After a 4-14 start to the season, the Knicks enter this one off 3 consecutive wins against likely playoff teams. Enes Kanter was outstanding against Memphis on Monday, putting up an impressive 26 rebounds to go along with his 21 points. Tim Hardaway has continued his strong offensive season, averaging 23 points and shooting 43% from 3 over his last 5. Rookie Shooting Guard Allonzo Trier has also impressed of late, averaging 11.5 points per game on efficient shooting. Despite these 3 straight wins, I still don’t really think the Knicks have turned a corner and they’ll likely be competing for a top 5 pick this season. 

Prediction: Pistons 1st Half -3.5 

The Pistons have earned a reputation as a bit of a flat-track bully for their ability to handle lesser opponents at home. I think they have a huge advantage on the interior and should win this rather comfortably. Laying only 3.5 points in the first half on their strong home court is excellent value here. 

Memphis Grizzlies 

The Grizzlies enter this home tilt at an impressive 12-7, suffering only their second home loss of the season against New York on Monday. Conley and Gasol did all that they could in that one, combining for 50 points, 15 assists and 12 rebounds. Rookie big man Jaren Jackson also continued his strong start to the campaign, registering an impressive 7 blocks and 16 points on 4/4 shooting from 3. The reserve backcourt of Shelvin Mack and Wayne Selden has also provided some much-needed offence this season. The Grizz have historically had a very strong home court and I expect them to be well up for the Raptors here. 

Toronto Raptors 

The Raptors make the trip to Memphis at 17-4, comfortably the best record in the NBA this season. Kawhi Leonard has been excellent in his first season in Toronto, averaging 24.5 points, 8.5 boards and 3 assists per game so far. Point Guard Kyle Lowry is also having another impressive campaign, averaging just over 15 points and 10 dimes per game. The strength of this Raptors team is their incredible depth and they go a legitimate 10 deep. Pascal Siakam, Danny Green, Serge Ibaka and OG Anunoby are all versatile defensive players that figure to play key roles in the playoffs.  

Prediction: Grizzlies +5 

Despite Toronto’s very impressive start to the season, I think getting 5 points with the Grizz at home is immense value. I expect another big game from Conley and Gasol and expect the rest of the roster to lift their game after the loss to New York.  

Denver Nuggets 

The Nuggets seem to have rebounded from their mini slide, winning 3 straight games to sit 13-7. Center Nikola Jokic has emerged as one of the association’s premier big men, averaging 16.5 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists per game this season. Point Guard Jamal Murray also appears to have taken the next step, putting up impressive averages of 17.5 points, 4.5 boards and 4.5 assists. In Gary Harris, Paul Millsap and the injured Will Barton, the Nuggets have one of the most versatile and offensively capable starting fives in the NBA. 

Los Angeles Lakers 

The Lakers enter this one with an 11-8 record, having won 7 of their previous 8 before their loss to Orlando on Monday. LeBron James has elevated his level of late, averaging 30 points, 8 boards and 6 assists over his last 5, shooting 47% from 3 in the process. Power Forward Kyle Kuzma has emerged as a strong rotation option for this team, whilst Center JaVale McGee has continued his excellent start to the campaign. L.A. will need Point Guard Lonzo Ball to lift his game to move up the west standings, the sophomore averaging only 8 points on 40% shooting from the field this season. 

Prediction: Lakers +4.5 

The already thin Nuggets rotation has taken another blow, with Gary Harris questionable for this one. Given their strong recent form, I believe the Lakers are very good value in this price. They’ve got every chance of going into Denver and taking the win, however 4.5 points gives us enough room to play with. 

It’s not always easy to find strong multi candidates on only a 5-game slate, but this appears to be strong value. The Pistons and Heat find themselves at home to two of the worst teams in the NBA, both of these sides hoping to sneak into the bottom of the Eastern Conference playoff picture. I expect them both to get the job done comfortably here and really like the $1.76 price point.

Washington Wizards 

The Wizards enter this one at 7-12, winning 2 of their last 3 at home to the Clippers and Pelicans. Small Forward Otto Porter has been better of late, notching 29 points on 12/15 shooting last time out against New Orleans. John Wall added a very complete stat line of 22 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists, whilst Shooting Guard Bradley Beal added 18 points and 8 assists of his own. The mercurial Austin Rivers even added 18 points off the bench, whilst Power Forward Markieff Morris has looked rejuvenated in his new bench role. Against a struggling Houston side, Washington is very capable of making it 3 wins in 4 here. 

Houston Rockets 

The Rockets enter this at a very disappointing 9-9, having lost back-to-back road games to Detroit and Cleveland. This has been despite the strong recent performances from Shooting Guard James Harden, who is averaging a shade over 35 points and 8 assists over his last 5 games. Center Clint Capela has also emerged as a strong interior presence this year, averaging 20 points, 14 boards and 3 blocks over his last 5. Chris Paul’s absence was likely a major reason for the loss in Cleveland, with the Rockets having suffered through a very thin rotation all season. 

Prediction: Wizards +3.5 

I think this line represents strong value on the Wizards here. If the fixture was reversed, it’d be tough to favour the Rockets by 9.5 points. I think the Wizards have figured something out with their new starting lineup and have every chance to win this. You’ll likely be able to get +4 by tip-off with all the money on Houston so far. 

Utah Jazz 

The Jazz bounced back big time yesterday with a huge win in Sacramento. Point Guard Ricky Rubio led the way in Donovan Mitchell’s absence, totalling an impressive 27 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Center Rudy Gobert also patrolled the paint as always, putting up 18 points, 15 boards and 5 assists of his own. Joe Ingles added a further 18, whilst the deep and versatile Jazz bench combined for 50+. Utah’s poor start to the season has surprised many, but they definitely have the talent to right the ship here. 

Indiana Pacers 

The Pacers enter this one with a middling 11-8 record, losing each of their last 2 games without All-Star Victor Oladipo. Domantas Sabonis has been very effective filling in for Myles Turner, scoring an efficient 15+ points in 4 of his last 5. Small Forward Bojan Bogdanovic has established himself as a quality starter in this league, averaging 15.5 points per game and shooting an impressive 52% from 3. In Cory Joseph and Darren Collison, the Pacers are getting 48 effective Point Guard minutes per game, which should be buoyed by Oladipo’s impending return here. 

Prediction: Pacers +5 

With the Jazz coming off a back-to-back and Oladipo probably returning here, I’m comfortable taking the Pacers +5 points. They match up well with this Jazz team and dominated them just last week. Their deep rotation is well suited to the Utah altitude and I expect them to keep this one competitive. 

Golden State Warriors 

Despite their recent struggles, the Warriors enter this one in top spot in the West with a 14-7 record. Kevin Durant has been outstanding over his last 5 games, averaging 32 points, 10 boards and 5 assists over this stretch. He’s been capably supported by Shooting Guard Klay Thompson, who’s averaged 27 points and 4 rebounds over this same stretch. That said, Golden State still very much miss both Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. KD and Klay are having to do everything offensively and may struggle to blow out this upstart Magic side. 

Orlando Magic 

Orlando enter this one at a respectable 10-10, managing a nice road win against the Lakers last night. Center Nikola Vucevic continued his excellent form, putting up an efficient 31 points, 15 rebounds and 7 assists. Power Forward Aaron Gordon has continued to improve, averaging 17 points and 7.7 boards whilst shooting 37% from 3. Reserve swingmen Terrence Ross and Jonathan Simmons combined for 26 points and 10 boards to lead a bench unit that has had a resurgent campaign. Against a thin Golden State side, I can see Orlando keeping this one close. 

Prediction: Magic +8  

Having had some recent success betting against Golden State with Oklahoma City and Sacramento, I’m happy to keep the trend going here. Stephen Curry and Draymond Green are both out of this one, really thinning out Golden State’s already top-heavy rotation. With all the money coming in on the Warriors, I’m happy to take a contrarian approach with Orlando here, especially when receiving 8 points. 

There are several candidates for the daily multi in today’s slate of action. Even though they’ve been largely inconsistent this season, I expect both Minnesota and San Antonio to pick up road wins against two of the worst sides in the NBA. Whilst I think they’re slightly overpriced, Golden State should also extend their winning streak to 3 here at home to Orlando. At $2.54, this is excellent value that I can’t pass up.

Memphis Grizzlies 

The Grizzlies enter this one sporting an impressive 12-6 record, including 7 wins in their 8 games at home so far this season. They’d won 7 of their previous 8 games prior to a loss against the Clippers on Saturday. Center Marc Gasol has been excellent of late, averaging 22 points and 13 boards in his last 5 games. He has unsurprisingly been strongly supported by Point Guard Mike Conley, who’s averaged an impressive 23 points and 8 assists over the same stretch. Veteran wings Garrett Temple and Kyle Anderson provide strong perimeter defence, whilst rookie big man Jaren Jackson has been a revelation so far. 

New York Knicks 

The Knicks enter this one with a relatively disappointing 6-14 record, however they have recorded wins over Boston and New Orleans in each of their last 2. Emmanuel Mudiay has provided a spark since being thrust into the starting lineup, notching 27 points and 7 boards against the Pelicans on Saturday. Shooting Guard Tim Hardaway continues to shoulder the offensive load, averaging 23 points, 3.5 boards and 3 assists this season. Center Enes Kanter also provides a much-needed interior presence for this team, averaging 15 points and 11 boards on the campaign. 

Prediction: Over 207.5 points 

With the Knicks porous defence, I think this total is too low here. Memphis are a capable offensive team when Conley and Gasol are firing, which they should have every opportunity to do here. I expect this to end up around 215-220.

Sacramento Kings 

The Kings enter this one with a surprising winning record after their first 19 games, off little rest after last night’s tilt in Golden State. The play of sophomore Point Guard De’Aaron Fox has been a big reason behind this start, averaging 18 points, 7.7 assists and 4.3 rebounds so far. Big man Willie Cauley-Stein has also been excellent so far, comfortably averaging 15.5 points and 8.5 boards per game. Veterans Iman Shumpert and Nemanja Bjelica provide some much-needed shooting to the starting lineup, whilst Rookie Marvin Bagley and swingman Bogdan Bogdanovic have led an upstart bench unit. 

Utah Jazz 

The Jazz enter this one with a surprisingly disappointing 8-11 record, comfortably losing 5 of their last 6 games. Center Rudy Gobert continues to lead the way for this team, averaging an impressive 15 points and 12.5 boards to go along with his excellent PER. Aussie Joe Ingles has also been very consistent for this side, averaging 13 points, 4 rebounds and 4.5 assists per contest. The poor performances from backcourt pairing Ricky Rubio and Donovan Mitchell have been largely responsible for Utah’s struggles this season, both men combining to shoot just 40% from the field. 

Prediction: Jazz -3.5 

With the Kings exceeding expectations so far and the Jazz in terrible form, this is simply a line value play here. Utah were 8-point favourites in Sacramento just a month ago and not enough has changed to warrant this decrease for me. Utah to bounce back here with a comfortable win and cover against a tired Kings side.

Portland Trail Blazers 

The Trail Blazers return home at 12-7 after losing 4 of 6 on their recent road trip. Damian Lillard has been excellent although slightly less efficient this year, still putting up averages of 26 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds. Center Jusuf Nurkic has established himself as an interior threat, enjoying comfortable averages of 15 points and 10 rebounds per game. Shooting Guard C.J. McCollum has also enjoyed an uptick in form of late, averaging 23 per game on 47% from 3 over his last 5 contests. The first game back from a road trip is never easy and I can see the Blazers struggling here. 

Los Angeles Clippers 

The Clippers make the trip to Portland with a very impressive 12-6 record, having won 6 of their last 7 games. Montrezl Harrell continues to lead the way for 6th man of the year, averaging an astounding 19.5 points and 9.5 boards off the bench over his last 5. His toughest competition for the award is probably teammate Lou Williams, who’s putting up an impressive 18.5 points and 4.5 assists per game of his own. Starting Forward combination Tobias Harris and Danilo Gallinari continue to impress, combining to average a shade under 40 points and 14 boards this season. 

Prediction: Clippers +4 

Portland have been on the road for so long that the first game is always a tough one. This, coupled with the Clippers strong recent form, makes me think they are excellent value +4 points. I think they have every chance to win this outright, but the extra 4 points provides some wiggle room.

There are a ton of great candidates for today’s NBA daily multi. I think the Suns, Knicks and Hawks are definitely 3 of the worst teams in the NBA. They should be easy work for the Pistons, Grizzlies and Hornets tomorrow. Similarly, I expect Toronto to breeze past a Miami side that has struggled recently. I also expect the Lakers to win tomorrow, however they’re a bit overpriced so I haven’t included them here. I’m comfortable sticking with this four-fold at $2.34. 

Minnesota Timberwolves 

The Timberwolves enter this one with a 7-10 record, winning 3 of their last 4 since the infamous Jimmy Butler trade. They did just have a disappointing loss to Memphis however, where they were held to just 87 points. Center Karl-Anthony Towns still put up an impressive stat line in the defeat, putting up 15 points to go along with his 20 rebounds. New Small Forward Robert Covington has been consistent since joining the team, scoring at least 13 points and registering at least 3 three-pointers in each of his games so far. I’d be remiss not to mention the impressive Derrick Rose resurrection that is taking place, with the former MVP averaging 19 points on 47% shooting from 3 this season. 

Denver Nuggets 

The 10-7 Nuggets have tailed off since their very impressive start to the season, losing 6 of their last 7 games. Center Nikola Jokic has still continued to impress, averaging 18 points, 10 boards and 7 assists to start the campaign. Shooting Guard Gary Harris has also had a very consistent year, scoring at least 14 points in all but 2 games so far. Juan Hernangomez has now emerged as a viable option in the starting lineup, pouring in 25 points against Atlanta and a further 20 against New Orleans last week. 

Prediction: Nuggets +2 

Despite the Nuggets recent struggles, there is definitely strong line value on them here. I believe they have the talent edge in this one and can dominate Minnesota offensively. They’ve got every chance to win outright, but 2 points gives us some wiggle room. 

San Antonio Spurs 

After an impressive start to the campaign, the Spurs enter this one at 8-8 having lost 4 of their last 5 games. Power Forward LaMarcus Aldridge has tailed off of late, registering 10 points or less in 3 of his last 4 games. Newly acquired Shooting Guard DeMar DeRozan has been relatively efficient to start the season, averaging 25 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists so far. It was the Spurs usually strong defence that let them down against New Orleans last time out, allowing a whopping 140 points and 59 made field goals.  

Memphis Grizzlies 

Memphis make the short trip to San Antonio in first place in the Southwest division, enjoying a somewhat surprising 11-5 start to the season. Their rotation is really starting to take shape and they’ve won 6 of their last 7. Point Guard Mike Conley was excellent last time out against Dallas, putting up an impressive 28 points and 7 assists on 7/11 shooting from 3. He was capably supported by reliable Center Marc Gasol, who added in 17 points, 15 boards and 4 blocks of his own. Rookie big man Jaren Jackson Junior has also shown some strong flashes, pouring in an efficient 27 points last week in Sacramento.  

Prediction: Grizzlies +3 

With the recent form of these two teams, I’m not really sure why the Spurs are favoured by 3 here. I think Memphis is the better team in this one, playing more cohesive as a unit as well. I’m tipping the Grizz for an outright upset here but am more than happy to take the 3 points on offer. 

Golden State Warriors 

After an impressive start to the season, the defending champs have struggled immensely of late. They’ve lost 5 of their last 7 games in the worst stretch of basketball in the Steve Kerr era. With Stephen Curry, Draymond Green and DeMarcus Cousins all out, this team has struggled to generate reliable offence. Klay Thompson and Kevin Durant are having to put up inefficient isolation shots in each possession, with the Warriors failing to eclipse 92 points in 2 of their last 3. Quinn Cook has performed admirably off the bench, but he just isn’t a 30-minute per game guy in the NBA. 

Oklahoma City Thunder 

After a shock 0-4 start to the season, the Thunder enter this one having won 10 of their last 12, despite a loss in Sacramento last time out. Small Forward Paul George has had an excellent season so far, averaging 24 points, 8 boards and 4 assists to start the campaign. Center Steven Adams has also stepped up immensely, providing a strong defensive presence whilst averaging an efficient 15 points and 10 boards. Russell Westbrook is also now back and healthy, pouring in 29 points, 13 boards and 7 assists against the Kings. 

Prediction: Thunder +1 

With Golden State’s rotation absolutely decimated by injuries, I expect OKC to come in and sneak a road win. Knowing Westbrook, he’d love nothing more than to hit a few big shots and stunt on KD after doing so. I expect Golden State’s offensive struggles to continue here, only magnifying the absence of Steph Curry. 

With one of the larger slates of the season comes a few very strong candidates for the daily multi. In road games against two of the worst teams in the NBA, I’m expecting relatively comfortable wins for both the Raptors and Lakers here. I expect a comfortable home win for Houston against Detroit and think the Celtics bounce back here as a 14-point favourite. At this $2.21 price, I can’t ignore the value on offer.

Washington Wizards 

It’s no secret that the 5-11 Wizards have had one of the most disappointing campaigns in the NBA so far this year. With rumours that Point Guard John Wall is on the trading block, it’s no surprise to hear about him and Coach Scott Brooks going at it in practice. On the court, Shooting Guard Bradley Beal has been a bright spot for the Wizards, averaging 21.5 points and 4.5 boards so far this season. Small Forward Otto Porter Junior appears to be rounding into form of late, whilst Power Forward Markieff Morris remains a quality option as a stretch 4.  

Los Angeles Clippers 

Whilst they’ve had some lucky breaks in their schedule, the Clippers enter this one with a very impressive 11-5 record. Backup big man Montrezl Harrell continues to provide excellent minutes off the bench, putting up 25 points, 11 boards and 4 steals in Atlanta yesterday. He is capably supported by running mate Lou Williams, who added 16 points and 11 boards of his own. Small Forward Tobias Harris has been consistently solid this season and he also enjoyed 24 points and 8 boards yesterday. With all the dysfunction going on in Washington, the Clippers have every chance of going to 12-5 here. 

Prediction: Under 230 

Whilst Clippers games have been high scoring of late, I still think there is strong value on the under here. They enter this one off limited rest after a late finish in Atlanta last night. With the Wizards offence struggling of late, under is the play for me here.

Orlando Magic 

Don’t look now but the Orlando Magic actually have a winning record, entering this one at 9-8 after 3 consecutive victories. It was an excellent team offensive display that saw them past the Knicks last time out as they totalled 131 points. Power Forward Aaron Gordon led the way with 31 points on 13/17 shooting, whilst Center Nikola Vucevic was one assist shy of a 28-point triple-double. Shooting Guard Evan ‘Don’t Google Me’ Fournier added in an efficient 19 points and 6 assists, whilst promising Forward Jonathan Isaac had 16 off the bench. A home win over the Raptors here would show me that the Magic are legit.  

Toronto Raptors 

Despite losing 3 of their last 4, the Raptors enter this one with a very impressive 13-4 record. Kawhi Leonard has been excellent so far this season, dropping 31 points and 15 rebounds in his last outing against the Celtics. Point Guard Kyle Lowry continues to be one of the best assist men in the NBA, averaging an efficient 15 points and 1 assists so far. Power Forward Serge Ibaka has also had a resurgent campaign, averaging 15.4 points, 8 boards and 56% shooting so far. Even with Orlando’s strong recent form, I still think Toronto is the best team in the East.  

Prediction: Raptors -6 

Laying only 6 points, I think there is strong value on the Raptors here. Their last 5 road wins have been by an average of over 15 points and I can see this trend continuing here. Kawhi Leonard is simply the best player on the floor here and I expect Toronto’s defence to prove too much for Orlando’s struggling playmakers.  

Miami Heat 

The Heat enter this one with a very disappointing 6-10 record after losing 5 of their last 6 games. With Goran Dragic and Dwayne Wade both out, the offence struggled and only shot 40% from the field. Shooting Guard Josh Richardson continued his strong start to the season, going 7/11 as he put up 17 points and 6 boards. Wayne Ellington poured in 5 3 pointers and Tyler Johnson added 17 off the bench in the only other notable offensive performances. The typically strong Heat defence wasn’t at its usual best, allowing LeBron to stunt as he dropped a casual 51.  

Brooklyn Nets 

The Nets also enter this one in a bit of a slump, having lost 4 of their last 5 in a period where they lost Shooting Guard Caris LeVert. Point Guard D’Angelo Russell has stepped up in LeVert’s absence, pouring in 23 points and 10 assists in an efficient night. Second-year Center Jarrett Allen also continues to impress, adding 24 points and 11 boards of his own. With players like Ed Davis, DeMarre Carroll and Spencer Dinwiddie coming off the bench, the Nets have a deep and versatile rotation that can compete each night.  

Prediction: Under 215.5  

With Wade and Dragic still out for the Heat, I’m expecting an old-school rock fight in this one. The Heat still have a strong defence, but struggle to generate offence without their two primary creators. I’m anticipating this game ends around 210 total points. 

Having touched on the Raptors game earlier, I think they’re excellent value at $1.40. After a string of losses recently, I expect a professional display on the road as they win comfortably. Similarly, I expect Portland to continue their strong start to the campaign against a struggling Knicks side that is 4-13 on the season. At $1.88, I think this is one of the better value multis of the season.  

Charlotte Hornets 

The Hornets enter this one with a 7-8 record after a devastating home loss to Philadelphia on Saturday. This was despite an outstanding performance from Point Guard Kemba Walker, who dropped 60 points on 21/34 shooting. Shooting Guard Jeremy Lamb added 20 points and 10 boards of his own, but the rest of the Hornets failed to contribute. Starting Forwards Nicolas Batum and Marvin Williams added only 4 points between them, whilst no-one on the Hornets bench registered double digits. I expect the going to get tough for the Hornets here against this strong Boston defence. 

Boston Celtics 

The Celtics have gotten off to a relatively disappointing 9-7 start this season and find themselves 3rd in the Atlantic division. Their win over the Raptors on Saturday was their most impressive display of the campaign, a game where Kyrie Irving went off for 43 points and 11 assists. Small Forward Gordon Hayward has looked noticeably worse this season coming off his injury, averaging only 10 points per game and shooting under 40% from the field. Al Horford continues to remain one of the premier centres in the NBA, whilst young wings Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are struggling to build off promising campaigns last season. 

Prediction: Celtics -1.5 

Ultimately, I think the Celtics have 5 of the 6 best players on the court here. I expect their excellent backcourt defence to pressure Kemba Walker and the Hornets don’t have anyone else who can take advantage. On offence, I expect Kyrie and Co to make enough plays for the win and the cover here.  

Philadelphia 76ers 

The 76ers return home at 11-7 after a big win in Charlotte on Saturday. Joel Embiid continued his excellent start to the campaign, pouring in 33 points and 11 rebounds. It was another efficient outing for Aussie Ben Simmons, who had 23 points and was 1 assist shy of a triple double. Now back in the starting lineup, JJ Redick provided a much-needed spacing element and drained 5 threes en route to 23 points. As a team firmly entrenched now in the top 4 of the East, games like these are ones that the Sixers should be winning comfortably. 

Phoenix Suns 

The Suns travel to Philadelphia at 3-12, with an 0-6 road record on the season. DeAndre Ayton continues to have a strong rookie campaign, putting up 21 points and 9 boards last time out against OKC. Devin Booker has tried to take more of a passing approach, registering 12 assists to go along with 16 points against OKC. Whilst he was a promising story to start the season, Point Guard Isaiah Canaan has struggled of late, failing to score in double digits in 4 of his last 5 games. With Trevor Ariza likely out injured, I expect another tough one for Phoenix here.  

Prediction: 76ers -6 First Half 

Not only are the Suns winless in their 6 road games this season, they’ve also been extremely uncompetitive in all 6. Philadelphia has a huge talent advantage in this game, particularly in the starting lineup. I expect a dominant first half en route to a comfortable win here. 

New Orleans Pelicans 

The Pelicans are back in form and enter this one with a 9-7 record after winning 5 of their last 6. Anthony Davis was incredible in their win over Denver, putting up a complete stat line of 40 points, 8 assists and 8 rebounds. This was capably supported by 20-point double-doubles from both Nikola Mirotic and Julius Randle, as well as 19 points and 8 assists from Jrue Holiday. Aside from a dip in form when they were battling through injuries, this New Orleans side has looked very strong this season and looks to be a top-4 threat out West. 

San Antonio Spurs 

The Spurs put an end to their 3-game losing streak with a resurgent win over a short-handed Golden State side yesterday. Lamarcus Aldridge led the way with an efficient 24 points and 18 boards as he dominated the interior. He was capably supported by DeMar DeRozan, who added 20 points, 9 assists and 6 rebounds of his own in his 40 minutes. Rudy Gay chimed in with 19 points of 6/10 shooting, and Aussie Patty Mills was +17 in 25 minutes off the bench. Despite the win yesterday, the Spurs had shown some worrying form of late, losing 5 of their previous 6 games. 

Prediction: Under 225.5 Points 

I understand the Pelicans like to play at a fast pace, but this total is just too high for a Spurs game. Their matches have gone under in 5 of the last 6 and I expect them to slow the pace here on a gruelling back-to-back. I expect the total for this one to end around 215-220.

A relatively straightforward multi today at what I believe to be a very good price. The 76ers and Pistons are at home to two of the worst teams in the NBA, whilst the Clippers should enjoy a comfortable win in Atlanta. At $1.74, this is far too good value to pass up.

Minnesota Timberwolves

The Jimmy Butler trade has allowed the Timberwolves to break their shackles, enjoying 3 straight home wins against solid opposition. Center Karl Anthony Towns has been going HAM of late, enjoying averages of 20 points, 12 boards and 2 blocks on the campaign. The often-maligned Andrew Wiggins also seems to be finding form, putting up an impressive 23 points against Portland on Saturday. Led by Jeff Teague and a resurgent Derrick Rose, the Wolves are now getting solid Point Guard play for 48 minutes a night. Memphis are never an easy out, but this does represent a good chance for the Timberwolves to extend their win streak.

Memphis Grizzlies

The Grizzlies enter this one with a very impressive 9-5 record after Saturday’s win against Sacramento. Rookie big man Jaren Jackson Jnr was excellent, leading the team with 27 points and 6 boards. Center Marc Gasol added to this interior dominance, registering 19 points and 15 rebounds of his own. Point Guard Mike Conley has continued his impressive start to the campaign, whilst veteran swingmen Garrett Temple and Kyle Anderson round out the starting lineup nicely. The improved play from their bench so far has made the Grizz a playoff contender out west.

Prediction: Timberwolves 1-10

With a 7-1 home record to start the season, the Timberwolves have shown that they’re hard to beat in Minnesota. The team is firing on all cylinders and I expect yet another home win here. Against a rugged Memphis side, I expect it to be a close one, making the Timberwolves 1-10 play strong value.

Washington Wizards

The Wizards continued their disappointing 5-10 start to the campaign with a poor home loss to the Nets on Saturday. This was despite an excellent performance from Center Dwight Howard, who put up 25 points and 17 rebounds in this one. Bradley Beal added 20 points and 6 boards, whilst Point Guard John Wall had 16 points and 7 assists. Despite an easy schedule of late, the Wizards have largely struggled to find a rhythm this season. Beating an upstart 10-5 Portland side at home is definitely a tough ask for this group at the moment.

Portland Trail Blazers

The Trail Blazers travel to Washington at 10-5 after consecutive disappointing losses to the Lakers and Timberwolves. Despite his strong start to the campaign, Point Guard Damian Lillard struggled mightily against the Timberwolves, going only 5/18 from the field. Big man Jusuf Nurkic has really impressed of late, enjoying 3 straight double-doubles. Shooting Guard C.J. McCollum is also quietly having another solid year, putting up 20 points a night. Injuries to both Seth Curry and Maurice Harkless have somewhat limited a bench that has been very effective to start the campaign.

Prediction: Under 224.5 points

With how these teams have played recently, I believe this line is a bit too inflated here. Both Portland and Washington are very much struggling to create offence when their starting guards aren’t on the floor. Portland’s games have definitely trended to the under in recent weeks and it’s a trend I’m comfortable continuing here.

Miami Heat

The Heat enter this one at a somewhat disappointing 6-9 after losing 4 of their last 5 games. Josh Richardson has emerged as a strong offensive piece this season, enjoying 28 points against Indiana last time out. Center Hassan Whiteside got over the tragic stealing of his gun, adding in 12 points and 17 boards of his own. Point Guard Goran Dragic is still finding his feet after returning from injury and this Miami side has definitely missed his creation. It’s always an emotional affair when LeBron returns to town and you’d expect the Heat crowd to be well up for this one.

Los Angeles Lakers

No rest for the Lakers as they travel straight to Miami after last night’s tilt in Orlando. Prior to this East Coast swing, they’d won an impressive 4 straight games and established themselves in the Western Conference playoff picture. LeBron James is starting to take full control of this team, evidenced by his impressive 44 points, 10 boards and 9 assists against Portland on Thursday. With JaVale McGee and Tyson Chandler both impressing of late, the Lakers are regularly getting 48 quality minutes from the Center spot now. Point Guard Lonzo Ball will need to step up here in the absence of the injured Rajon Rondo.

Prediction: Under 228.5 points

This is my best bet of the day. The Heat are struggling for creation now and I can see them struggling against LA’s improving defence. Off of a back-to-back, I also expect the Lakers to play at a slower pace here. I ultimately expect the total for this one to finish in the 215-220-point range.

Only two teams in today’s daily multi but it still gets us an attractive price point. As touched on earlier, I expect Minnesota’s talent to prove too much for Memphis as they move to 8-1 at home. Against one of the worst teams in the NBA, I also expect Orlando’s frontcourt to be too strong for the Knicks as they cruise to a home win. At $2.07, this is strong enough value for a play.

Brooklyn Nets

There’s no rest for the Nets here as they travel back to the Barclays Center after last night’s tilt with Washington. They’ve largely struggled in the absence of Caris LeVert, losing to the Warriors, Timberwolves and Heat by an average of 12 points. The starting lineup in particular really struggled against the Heat last time out, with no player managing to score over 12 points. This has led to a stronger reliance on bench players such as Demarre Carroll, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Spencer Dinwiddie. Whilst the Nets nice start was a promising story, I don’t see them enjoying too much success against this upstart Clippers side.

 Los Angeles Clippers

The Clippers enter this one with an impressive 9-5 record after 5 wins in their last 6 contests. Shooting Guard Lou Williams was again the key man in Friday’s win over the Spurs, dropping 23 points off the bench, including the go-ahead 3-pointer in the last minute. Montrezl Harrell continued to do his thing off the bench, enjoying a well-rounded stat line of 14 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Forwards Tobias Harris and Danilo Gallinari have both been excellent so far this campaign, averaging an efficient 39 points and 15 boards between them each night.

Prediction: Under 222 points

Tying in with last night’s prediction, I’m going under in the Nets game here. I don’t think they have the offensive firepower in LeVert’s absence and expect to roll with this trend as long as the numbers are good. The Clippers road games haven’t been too high scoring and I think this total is 5-10 points too high here.

Charlotte Hornets

The Hornets enter this one at 7-7 after a disgustingly bad road loss in Cleveland last time out. PG Kemba Walker struggled mightily in the 24-point loss, scoring only 7 points as he went 2-16 from the field. Shooting Guard Jeremy Lamb was the only player who could do anything offensively, putting up 22 points, which was twice as many as their second highest scorer. Their defence was atrocious in this one as well, allowing the Cavs to shoot over 50% from the field and from 3-point range. After two hard-fought contests already this season, they welcome the new-look Sixers to town here.

Philadelphia 76ers

Small Forward Jimmy Butler made his home-debut in last night’s tilt against Utah. They struggled in his first game as a Sixer against Orlando, falling on the road to the struggling Magic. Center Joel Embiid has established himself as one of the best in the NBA this season, putting up impressive averages of 27 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists so far. Aussie Ben Simmons also remains a nightly triple-double threat, averaging 14 points, 9 boards and 7.5 assists of his own. With the addition of Butler, they now have a legitimate ‘big 3’ that should prove capable of contending in the later rounds of the playoffs.

Prediction: Under 226.5 points

With the Sixers still trying to fit Jimmy Butler in and coming off a back-to-back from last night, I feel as though the total is too high here. I expect a slower-paced game with more of an isolation focus. This high total gives us more than enough room to play with and I’m fairly confident in the under.

Orlando Magic

The Magic enter this one at 7-8, after 3 wins in their last 4 games. Center Nikola Vucevic had a strong outing against the Sixers last time out, notching 30 points and 8 rebounds. Power Forward Aaron Gordon has also had a solid start to the campaign since signing a new extension, averaging 16 points and 8 boards per game. Swingman Terrence Ross has also emerged as an excellent playmaking option off the bench for the Magic, averaging 14 points so far this season.

Los Angeles Lakers

The Lake Show start their East Coast road trip at 8-6 after 4 straight victories. LeBron James was excellent against Portland last time out, dropping an impressive 44 points, 10 rebounds and 9 assists. Center JaVale McGee also continued his strong start to the season, adding in 20 points of his own. Forwards Brandon Ingram and Kyle Kuzma have continued to support LeBron capably on the wing, combining to average 33 a game so far. This East Coast road swing represents an excellent chance for the Lakers to climb the Western Conference standings.

 Prediction: Lakers -4.5

Given their strong form of late, I’m going to have to roll with the Lakers again here. It’s definitely a trap game, but LeBron is by far the best player on the court here in this one. I expect it to be relatively close throughout, with the Lakers making enough plays down the stretch to pull out both the win and cover.

For the first time in a few days, we finally have a ton of great spots for the daily multi. Whilst the Kings have improved somewhat this year, I expect a healthy Rockets team to have no issue here. Similarly, in games against 3 of the NBA’s worst teams, the Pacers, Raptors and Thunder should all win comfortably here. $1.82 represents very strong value with all things considered.