Tuesday February 26, 2019

Tuesday February 26, 2019

Charlotte Hornets vs Golden State Warriors, 11 am
Warriors -7

Charlotte Hornets

The Hornets enter this one at a middling 28-31, including a very solid 20-10 home record. Kemba Walker has been the star man all season, putting up stellar averages of 25.1 points, 5.7 assists, and 4.3 rebounds. He has been capably supported in the backcourt by Jeremy Lamb, who is averaging 15 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.5 assists of his own.

Golden State Warriors

Despite a West-leading record of 42-17, the Warriors enter this one off a poor defeat at the hands of Houston. This was despite another stellar display from Stephen Curry, who dropped 25 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists. Kevin Durant also continued his strong scoring run, leading the team with 29 points.

Prediction: Warriors -7

Having had two relatively lacklustre games since the All-Star break, I expect a motivated Golden State side in this one. Even with Charlotte’s strong home record, they simply don’t have the depth and talent to match up with the Warriors. Laying only 7 points, this could get higher closer to tip-off.

Detroit Pistons vs Indiana Pacers, 11 am
Pistons -2.5

Detroit Pistons

The Pistons enter this one a middling 28-30 after improved recent play has seen them win 6 of their last 7. Ish Smith was excellent against Miami last time out, pouring in 22 points and 9 assists off the bench. Blake Griffin also continued his strong season, adding 20 points and 6 assists of his own.

Indiana Pacers

The Pacers also enter this one in a strong run of form, winning 8 of their last 9 to sit 40-20. It has definitely been a team effort for Indiana in the absence of Victor Oladipo, with 7 players scoring in double figures last time out. Thaddeus Young was especially effective, leading the team with 22 points against Washington.

Prediction: Pistons -2.5

With both of these teams in such great form, I’ll have to side with the home squad here. Detroit have an interior capable of bullying any opposition, whilst the improved play of Smith and Jackson has been huge in the backcourt. Laying just 2.5, I’m expecting a Detroit win and cover here.

Chicago Bulls vs Milwaukee Bucks, 12 pm
Bucks -11

Chicago Bulls

The Bulls enter this one at 16-44 after a surprise double digit home win over the Celtics last time out. Zach LaVine was the man in this one, dropping a very solid 42 points and 6 rebounds. Lauri Markannen also continued his strong recent form, adding 35 points and 15 boards of his own.

Milwaukee Bucks

Currently sitting 45-14, the Bucks continue to possess the best record in the NBA. Whilst he was somewhat overshadowed by Ja Rule’s halftime show, Giannis still had a solid night with 27 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists. Khris Middleton also showed his All-Star credentials with a 28-point night.

Prediction: Bucks -11

The Bucks have been ATS darlings all season and I think the Bulls are slightly overvalued after wins over Orlando and Boston. Milwaukee has the significant talent and depth advantage in this one and should be far too strong for the lowly Bulls here.

Monday 25 February, 2019

Toronto Raptors vs Orlando Magic, 7:30 am
Magic +9.5

Toronto Raptors

The Raptors enter this one at 44-16 after an emotional home win over San Antonio last time out. Kawhi Leonard was the leading scorer against his former side, pouring in 25 points and 6 rebounds. Pascal Siakam added 22 of his own, whilst Serge Ibaka had an efficient double-double on the interior.

Orlando Magic

The Magic find themselves 27-33 after a surprise home loss to Chicago last time out. This was despite another solid display from Nikola Vucevic, who dropped 19 points, 13 rebounds, and 7 assists. Evan ‘Don’t Google Me’ Fournier also had another stellar performance, adding 22 points of his own.

Prediction: Magic +9.5

Despite the recent loss to Chicago, the Magic have been playing better of late than most people give them credit for. After such an emotional win last time out, I wonder how motivated Toronto will be here. Getting 9.5 points with Orlando, I’m expecting a close one here.

Denver Nuggets vs Los Angeles Clippers, 9 am
Clippers +9

Denver Nuggets

The Nuggets enter this one 40-18 off the back of another solid road win over Dallas last time out. Nikola Jokic again led the way, dropping a well-rounded 19 points, 13 rebounds, and 8 assists. The rest of the starters all scored in double figures in what was very much a strong team display.

Los Angeles Clippers

The Clippers improved their shot at the #8 seed with a solid road win over Memphis last time out. Montrezl Harrell had yet another excellent display off the bench, dropping a quick-fire 30 points on 11/14 shooting. Danilo Gallinari also controlled things well in the starting lineup, adding 23 points and 8 rebounds.

Prediction: Clippers +9

Whilst the Nuggets have been dynamite at home this season, I think 9 points is a bit too much for this Clippers team to be getting. They’ve appeared very strong since acquiring Temple and Green and should be able to push a strong Nuggets team close.

New York Knicks vs San Antonio Spurs, 11:30 am
Under 219.5

New York Knicks

The Knicks enter this one an abysmal 11-48, including an even worse 4-24 at Madison Square Garden. Dennis Smith Junior has looked like one for the future since joining New York, averaging 15.8 points and 6.1 assists per contest. Emmanuel Mudiay has also had a very solid season, averaging a shade under 15 points and 4 assists.

San Antonio Spurs

The Spurs make the trip to New York after an emotional loss in Toronto last time out. DeMar DeRozan was impressive in his homecoming, dropping a solid 23 points and 8 assists. Marco Belinelli and Patty Mills also provided strong energy off the bench, combining for 36 points in the process.

Prediction: Under 219.5

With Knicks games being very tough to call lately, I’m opting for a total play here. Given their relative lack of consistent scorers, I expect New York to struggle offensively in this one. The Spurs enjoy a slower pace and should keep this one under the relatively high 219.5 number.

Sunday 24 February, 2019

Philadelphia 76ers vs Portland Trail Blazers, 6 am
76ers -2

Philadelphia 76ers

The Sixers enter this one a very solid 38-21 after a home win over Miami last time out. Tobias Harris appears to be fitting in very well with his new side, dropping 23 points and 11 rebounds in the win. Fan favourite Boban Marjanovic also stepped up in Joel Embiid’s absence, dropping 19 points and 12 boards of his own.

Portland Trail Blazers

The Blazers make the trip to Philly at a solid 35-23 after a convincing road win over Brooklyn last time out. It was Bosnian big man Jusuf Nurkic that led the way here, dropping an impressive 27 points and 12 rebounds. CJ McCollum also had a stat stuffing night with 21 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists.

Prediction: 76ers -2

Whilst Embiid is out for this one, I still think the Sixers are comfortably the better team here. They’ve been stellar at home all season, whilst Portland are just 11-15 on the road. Expect Ben Simmons to control this one, with Butler, Harris, and Boban playing strong supporting roles.

Atlanta Hawks vs Phoenix Suns, 12 pm
Hawks -2.5

Atlanta Hawks

The Hawks enter this one at 19-40 after a narrow loss to the Pistons last time out. Trae Young continues to impress, dropping 30 points and 10 assists in the defeat. He is forming a nice combination with young big man John Collins, who had 19 points and 6 boards of his own.

Phoenix Suns

The Suns enter this one at a dismal 11-49 after yet another loss last time out, this time to the lowly Cavaliers. Devin Booker again led the way in this one, dropping 30 points and 7 assists. Kelly Oubre has also proved to be a solid mid-season addition, adding 23 points of his own.

Prediction: Hawks -2.5

Despite an emotional loss last night, I think the Hawks are comfortably better than this Phoenix side. The Suns have lost 17 games in a row and appear to have no interest in worsening their lottery odds. Expect a big night from Young and Collins en route to a home win and cover.

Miami Heat vs Detroit Pistons, 12:30 pm
Heat -3.5

Miami Heat

The Heat enter this one at 26-31 and on the edge of the playoff picture out East. Shooting Guard Josh Richardson has been their main man all season, averaging 17.5 points and 4 assists per game. Dwyane Wade has also been very solid in his final season, averaging over 14 points and 4 assists.

Detroit Pistons

The Pistons enter this one at 27-30 after a tight comeback win over Atlanta last night. Andre Drummond was a man among boys in this one, pouring in 26 points, 21 rebounds, and 5 steals. Reggie Jackson also had a very stellar performance, adding 32 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists.

Prediction: Heat -3.5

Off such an emotional win last night, I wonder how much energy the Pistons will have here. This is a huge matchup in the East playoff race and I expect the depth and versatility of Miami to prove too much here.

Saturday 23 February, 2019

Toronto Raptors vs San Antonio Spurs, 11 am
Raptors -7.5

Toronto Raptors

The Raptors enter this one a very solid 43-16 off the back of 6 consecutive wins. Kawhi Leonard has been the undisputed man this season, averaging 27 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 3.3 assists. Kyle Lowry also managed another well-deserved All-Star appearance with his stellar averages of 14.3 points and 9.2 assists.

San Antonio Spurs

San Antonio make the trip to Toronto at 33-26 after losing 4 of their last 5 matches. LaMarcus Aldridge is having another stellar season, making the All-Star game with averages of 21 points and 9 boards. DeMar DeRozan is also having a solid first season out West, averaging 21 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists of his own.

Prediction: Raptors -7.5

After taking a beating in San Antonio earlier this season, I think Kawhi and Co will want revenge here. They are the significantly deeper and more talented team with an excellent home court advantage. Laying 7.5 here, I fully expect a home win and cover.

Orlando Magic vs Chicago Bulls, 11 am
Bulls Under 104.5

Orlando Magic

Don’t look now but the Magic have won 5 straight convincing games to sit 27-32. Nikola Vucevic has been the star man this season, averaging 20 points, 12 rebounds, and 4 assists per contest. Evan ‘Don’t Google Me’ Fournier is also providing some solid backcourt creation, averaging a shade under 15 points and 4 assists.

Chicago Bulls

The Bulls find themselves a dismal 14-44 despite a strong win over Memphis last time out. Otto Porter went off for his new club, dropping a very impressive 37 points and 10 rebounds. Lauri Markannen also enjoyed a well-rounded stat line with 21 points, 10 boards, and 6 assists.

Prediction: Bulls Under 104.5 Points

With the way the Magic defence has been playing lately, I see Chicago struggling on offence here. Especially in Orlando, I’m also expecting a very slow-paced game. At 104.5 points, I can see the Bulls scoring under 100 in this one.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs Utah Jazz, 1:30 pm
Thunder -3.5

Oklahoma City Thunder

The Thunder enter this one at a very respectable 37-20, including a 20-7 home record. Paul George has been the main man this season, averaging 28.7 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists. Russell Westbrook is again putting up great counting stats, averaging over 21 points, 11 assists, and 11 boards per game.

Utah Jazz

The Jazz have improved from their somewhat shaky start and currently find themselves 32-25. Donovan Mitchell has been the driving force behind this run, averaging 22 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists per game. Rudy Gobert has been as solid as ever on the interior, averaging 15 points, 13 rebounds, and 2 blocks.

Prediction: Thunder -3.5

After losing to Utah in the 2018 playoffs, I expect OKC to come out looking for revenge here. They have the two best players on the floor here and a very solid homecourt advantage. Expect Paul George to outplay Mitchell en route to a home win and cover.

Friday 22 February, 2019

Cleveland Cavaliers vs Phoenix Suns, 11 am
Cavaliers -1

Cleveland Cavaliers

The Cavs enter this one a miserable 12-46 after 5 losses in their last 6 games. Kevin Love is set to return after a long injury layoff but will likely be on a minutes limit here. Guard Jordan Clarkson is in some very strong form, dropping 42 points off the bench in a triple-overtime loss to Brooklyn last time out.

Phoenix Suns

The Suns enter this one in even worse form, having lost each of their last 15 games to sit 11-48. Devin Booker has led the way for them all season, averaging a respectable 24.6 points and 6.7 assists per contest. DeAndre Ayton has also chipped in with a solid rookie season, averaging 16.5 points and 10.5 boards.

Prediction: Cavaliers -1

Whilst this is a tough game to pick, the expected return of Love should bolster Cleveland in this one. They have better depth in the backcourt and should have an edge against a Phoenix side with only 4 road wins all season.

Milwaukee Bucks vs Boston Celtics, 12 pm
Celtics +6

Milwaukee Bucks

The Bucks enter this one a solid 43-14 after a road win over Indiana last time out. Giannis continued his incredible season, this time dropping 33 points, 19 rebounds, and 11 assists. Khris Middleton was again solid in a supporting role, adding 15 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists of his own.

Boston Celtics

The Celts find themselves at 37-21 after a solid home win over Detroit before the All-Star break. Kyrie Irving has been their star man this season, averaging a very solid 23.6 points and 6.9 assists per game. Jayson Tatum is also having a stellar sophomore season, averaging 16.5 points and 6.3 rebounds of his own.

Prediction: Celtics +6

Whilst the Bucks have been very impressive this season, it’s tough to go against a strong Celtics side getting 6 points. They have the defensive depth and versatility to contain Giannis and Co here. Expect a close one here, one that Boston could even claim outright.

Los Angeles Lakers vs Houston Rockets, 2:30 pm
Lakers +2.5

Los Angeles Lakers

The Lake Show currently find themselves 10th in the West at 28-29 and 3 games out of a playoff spot. This is despite another very solid season from LeBron James, who’s averaging 26.8 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 7.6 assists. Young Forwards Kyle Kuzma and Brandon Ingram have both also stepped up, combining to average 36 a night.

Houston Rockets

The Rockets have been in much better form lately and enter this one at a solid 33-24. James Harden has been excellent all season, averaging a phenomenal 36.6 points, 7.7 assists, and 6.7 rebounds. Big man Clint Capela is also expected to return here, averaging a solid 17.6 points and 12.6 boards himself.

Prediction: Lakers +2.5

Whilst everyone is on Houston here, I think the Lakers can surprise some people at home. LeBron has publicly come out and said he will raise his intensity, making me expect a huge team effort here. Houston has a losing away record this season, which I think LA can compound here.

Friday February 15, 2019

Orlando Magic vs Charlotte Hornets, 11 am
Under 216 Points

Orlando Magic

The Magic enter this one at an impressive 26-32 after 6 wins in their last 7 games. Nikola Vucevic was again excellent against New Orleans last time out, dropping 25 points and 17 rebounds. Aaron Gordon, Jonathan Isaac, and Evan ‘Don’t Google Me’ Fournier all eclipsed 20 points in a strong team display.

Charlotte Hornets

The Hornets make the trip to Orlando at 27-29 after a road loss to Indiana last time out. Kemba Walker has been the star man this season, earning an All-Star starter spot with averages of 25.2 points and 5.7 assists. Jeremy Lamb, Marvin Williams, and Malik Monk are all averaging double figures in complementary roles.

Prediction: Under 216 Points

The Magic defence has improved significantly of late and should be able to contain a Hornets offence that is very reliant on Walker. Similarly, Orlando’s lack of perimeter creation will make it difficult to put up big points here. Expect a low scoring affair in Orlando before the All-Star break.

Atlanta Hawks vs New York Knicks, 11:30 am
Knicks +7.5

Atlanta Hawks

The Hawks enter this one at an improving 19-38 after a home win over the Lakers last time out. John Collins again balled out in that one, dropping a very solid 22 points and 8 rebounds. Trae Young also had another excellent display, going off for 22 points and 14 assists of his own.

New York Knicks

The Knicks make the short trip to Atlanta after playing in Philadelphia yesterday. They are mired in a huge losing streak at present and look the favourite to have the worst record in the NBA. DeAndre Jordan has provided a solid interior presence since the Porzingis trade, whilst Dennis Smith acts as a future building block.

Prediction: Knicks +7.5

Whilst it’s tough to put your hard-earned money on the Knicks, I’m not sure the Hawks should be 7.5-point favourites against anyone. There is more than enough talent on this Knicks squad to keep things close, which I expect them to do here.

New Orleans Pelicans vs Oklahoma City Thunder, 12 pm
Thunder -3.5

New Orleans Pelicans

The Pelicans enter this one 25-33 after a dismal home loss to Orlando last time out. Anthony Davis managed just 3 points as boos cascaded towards him from Pelicans fans all night. Starting Guards Jrue Holiday and E’Twaun Moore remain bright spots for this side, combining for 33 points last time out.

Oklahoma City Thunder

OKC enter this one at a very solid 37-19 after comfortably winning 11 of their last 12 games. Paul George was again insane against Portland last time out, dropping 47 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists. Russell Westbrook continued his triple-double magic, adding 21 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists of his own.

Prediction: Thunder -3.5

The Pelicans are in disarray right now whilst the Thunder are flying high. Whilst this definitely appears a trap game on paper, I’m still rolling with OKC here. They have the notable depth and talent advantage, which should be enough for a road win and cover.

Thursday 14 February, 2019

Indiana Pacers vs Milwaukee Bucks, 11 am
Bucks -3.5

Indiana Pacers

The Pacers enter this one at 38-19 off the back of 6 consecutive impressive victories. Center Myles Turner has been very solid in Oladipo’s absence, averaging over 17 points and just under 4 blocks during his last 5. Thaddeus Young has also been an excellent contributor, dropping 11 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists against Charlotte last time out.

Milwaukee Bucks

The Bucks enter this one a very impressive 42-14, good enough to maintain the #1 seed in the East and the NBA. Giannis was again fantastic against Chicago last time out, dropping 29 points, 17 rebounds, and 8 assists. Eric Bledsoe has also been solid in a complementary role, averaging 18.5 points, 5.5 assists, and 5 rebounds over his last 5.

Prediction: Bucks -3.5

Ultimately, I think the Bucks are just the significantly better team in this one. Indiana just doesn’t have anyone capable of credibly matching up with Giannis. Expect a close one here with the Pacers pulling away late to get the cover.

Toronto Raptors vs Washington Wizards, 11:30 pm
Raptors -10.5

Toronto Raptors

The Raptors enter this one a very impressive 42-16 off the back of 5 consecutive victories. Kawhi Leonard was again excellent in a home win over the Nets last time out, dropping 30 points and 8 assists. Serge Ibaka also chimed in with a very solid double-double, adding 18 points and 12 boards in just 26 minutes.

Washington Wizards

The Wiz make the trip to Toronto at 24-33, largely due to a very poor 7-22 road record. Bradley Beal has been their key man this season, averaging 25 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists to make the All-Star game. Bobby Portis has also looked impressive in his 3 games as a Wizard, averaging 21.3 points and 7.7 rebounds.

Prediction: Raptors -10.5

This is another game where the Raptors are just significantly the better team. With the top of the East so close together now, they have to keep pushing to try and get home court. Expect a professional performance here that leads to a win and cover.

Minnesota Timberwolves vs Houston Rockets, 12 pm
Rockets -3

Minnesota Timberwolves

The Timberwolves enter this one at 26-30, breaking a streak of 6 losses in 7 games with a win against the Clippers last time out. Karl Anthony Towns again led the way, this time dropping an impressive 24 points and 10 rebounds. Jeff Teague added 19 points and 10 assists, whilst D Rose had a quick-fire 22 points off the bench.

Houston Rockets

The Rockets make the trip to Minnesota at 33-23 after a convincing home win over the Mavs last time out. James Harden had another day to remember, this time dropping 31 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists. Chris Paul was also very impressive, adding a double-double with 17 points and 11 assists.

Prediction: Rockets -3

Given the Wolves recent form, the Rockets look like great value to take care of business on the road here. They’ve got no-one that can contain Harden and this high-flying Rockets offence. Combine that with an improving Houston defence and you get a road win and cover here.

February 13, 2019

Atlanta Hawks vs Los Angeles Lakers, 11:30 am
Under 236 Points

Atlanta Hawks

The Hawks enter this one at 18-38 after taking 3 consecutive losses. Big man John Collins has been fantastic since his return from injury, averaging an impressive 19.3 points and 9.8 rebounds per game. Rookie Trae Young is also showing some excellent flashes, averaging 16.8 points and 7.4 assists of his own.

Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers enter this one at 28-28 after a crushing loss in Philadelphia last time out. Kyle Kuzma was the main man in this one, continuing his strong recent form with 39 points and 3 rebounds. LeBron James also had yet another solid performance, falling just one assist shy of a triple-double as he continues to return from injury.

01Under 236 points

I think the Hawks recent buyout of Jeremy Lin will hinder their offence in this one. After giving up 143 points last time out, I expect the Lakers to also put in a much better performance. Expect a slower-paced game here that sails under this number.

Philadelphia 76ers vs Boston Celtics, 12 pm
76ers -5.5

Philadelphia 76ers

The Sixers enter this one at 36-20 after a comfortable home victory over the Lake Show last time out. Joel Embiid continued his excellent recent run, pouring in 37 points and 14 rebounds. J.J. Redick and Tobias Harris both also eclipsed 20 points, showing how this starting 5 can play together.

Boston Celtics

The Celtics enter this one at 35-21 after consecutive home losses to both of the Los Angeles teams. They blew a huge halftime lead against the Clippers last time out, largely due to the injury sustained by Point Guard Kyrie Irving. Sophomore Forward Jayson Tatum will need to help pick up the slack, having averaged 17 points and 7 boards over his last 5.

Prediction: 76ers -5.5

Given the Celtics recent dominance over Philly, this is one of the biggest recent revenge spots in the NBA. Especially with Kyrie out here, I don’t think Boston can put up the points in this one. Laying just 5.5, expect Philly’s starters to bring home the win and cover.

Memphis Grizzlies vs San Antonio Spurs, 12 pm
Spurs -3.5

Memphis Grizzlies

Having traded away Marc Gasol last week, the Grizz find themselves at 23-34 after a win over New Orleans last time out. Joakim Noah had a flashback game off the bench, dropping an efficient 19 points and 14 rebounds. Mike Conley continued his consistent solid play, averaging over 20 points and 6 assists himself.

San Antonio Spurs

The Spurs enter this one at 32-26 having comfortably lost each of their last 4 games. DeMar DeRozan has still been somewhat of a bright spot of late, putting up 35 points, 6 boards, and 6 assists against Portland on Friday. The form of LaMarcus Aldridge has somewhat dipped however, the big man shooting just 44% over his last 5.

Prediction: Spurs -3.5

Whilst the Spurs have struggled of late, this has been with a very difficult set of fixtures. I still expect them to make the playoffs this year and see them as a much stronger team than Memphis. Laying 3.5 points, expect a veteran performance that gets the job done.

Tuesday 12 February, 2019

Indiana Pacers vs Charlotte Hornets, 11 am
Hornets +5.5

Indiana Pacers

The Pacers enter this one at 37-19 off the back of 5 consecutive victories. Bojan Bogdanovic has been excellent of late, averaging over 24 points a game during this period on 57% shooting. Myles Turner has also provided a solid interior presence of late, averaging 16.4 points and 3.6 blocks during this win streak.

Charlotte Hornets

The Hornets make the trip to Indiana at 27-28 after a comfortable road win in Atlanta last time out. Kemba Walker led the way with another vintage display, pouring in 37 points and 7 assists. He finally got some support from his teammates, as Jeremy Lamb dropped 24 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists, whilst Marvin Williams added a further 27.

Prediction: Hornets +5.5

Whilst the Pacers have been in a solid run of form of late, none of those victories were against really solid opposition. This Hornets team has played very well of late and now finds itself atop its division. Getting 5.5 here, they should at least keep it close.

Chicago Bulls vs Milwaukee Bucks, 12 pm
Bucks -9.5

Chicago Bulls

The Bulls enter this one a disappointing 13-43 after a loss to the Wizards last time out. Zach LaVine again led the way in this one, pouring in 26 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists. Lauri Markannen was also a very solid contributor, dropping 20 points and 11 boards to continue his solid run.

Milwaukee Bucks

Milwaukee enter this one at 41-14 after a surprising home loss to Orlando last time out. Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to be the main man this season, averaging 27 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 6 assists a night. Khris Middleton also gained a well-deserved All-Star appearance with his averages of 17 points, 6 boards, and 4 assists.

Prediction: Bucks -9.5

This Bucks team rarely loses two in a row and I expect them to right their previous loss here. The sheer athleticism and versatility on this side should be way too much for a struggling Chicago to handle. Laying 9.5 points, I see this increasing closer to tip-off.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs Portland Trail Blazers, 12 pm
Blazers +6.5

Oklahoma City Thunder

The Thunder enter this one at 36-19 after a huge road win in Houston last time out. Paul George continued his truly epic run of form, dropping 45 points to go with 11 rebounds and 3 assists. Russell Westbrook also picked up another quadruple-double, this time highlighted by 21 points.

Portland Trail Blazers

Portland enter this one at a solid 33-22 after a 4th quarter collapse yesterday handed them a loss in Dallas. Dame Lillard can’t be at fault for this one, dropping an impressive 30 points and 5 assists on the afternoon.  Bosnian big man Jusuf Nurkic continued his solid run of form, dropping 18 and 10 on 9/11 shooting.

Prediction: Blazers +6.5

After OKC won against Portland last time out, I expect the Blazers to look for revenge in this one. Lillard vs Westbrook is one of the more underrated rivalries in the league and should make for a tense affair here. In one that I think will go down to the wire, I’m happy to take the underdog.

Monday 11 February, 2019

Dallas Mavericks vs Portland Trail Blazers, 7 am
Blazers -1.5

Dallas Mavericks

The Mavericks enter this one at 25-29 and appear out of the running for a playoff spot out West. Their roster underwent significant change over the trade deadline, with 4 of their 5 starters changing teams. This leaves rookie sensation Luka Doncic as the only remaining starter, with the Slovenian averaging 20.6 points, 7 boards, and 5.5 assists so far.

Portland Trail Blazers

The Blazers enter this one a convincing 33-21 after a solid home win over San Antonio last time out. Dame Lillard again came up big in this one, dropping 24 points, 9 assists, and 5 steals. C.J. McCollum also had a night to remember, pouring in 30 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 steals.

Prediction: Blazers -1.5

Given all the change in Dallas as of late, I think the Blazers loom as the significantly better team here. Their backcourt especially matches up well here and should be more than enough for a road win and cover at 1.5 points.

Philadelphia 76ers vs Los Angeles Lakers, 7:30 am
76ers -6

Philadelphia 76ers

The Sixers enter this one a solid 35-20 after an impressive home win over Denver last time out. J.J Redick stole the show in this one, pouring in a quick-fire 34 points to go with 3 rebounds and 3 assists. Jimmy Butler also had a solid night, dropping 22 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists en route to victory.

Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers managed a surprise upset win in Boston last time out to move to 28-27. LeBron was again the key in this one, dropping 28 points, 12 boards, and 12 assists to lead the way. Rajon Rondo also had a stellar performance, adding 17 points, 10 assists, 7 rebounds, and the game-winner.

Prediction: 76ers -6

Whilst the Lakers are fresh off an impressive win, I still think Philly is comfortably the better team here. Their offensive versatility should be especially tough for LA to guard here. Laying only 6 points, I like the Sixers in this spot.

Golden State Warriors vs Miami Heat, 12:30 pm
Warriors -14

Golden State Warriors

The Warriors enter this one at a West-leading 39-15 after a road win in Phoenix last time out. Klay Thompson continued his excellent recent form in this one, dropping 25 points and 4 made 3-pointers. Boogie Cousins also had his most minutes to date, registering 18 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists in the process.

Miami Heat

The Heat find themselves at 25-28 after losing 4 of their last 5 games to now sit behind Charlotte in the Southeast. Dwyane Wade has provided some solid minutes off the bench of late, averaging 14 points and over 4 assists per contest. Hassan Whiteside continues to produce on the interior, averaging 13 points and 12.5 boards.

Prediction: Warriors -14

Miami just doesn’t have the offensive firepower to hang with Golden State in this one. Similarly, their defence just can’t contain the elite Warriors offence. Whilst 14 points is a lot, Golden State’s pace and talent should be enough to cover this.