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
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
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.