Friday 1 March, 2019

Friday 1 March, 2019

Indiana Pacers vs Minnesota Timberwolves, 11 am
Pacers -4

Indiana Pacers

The Pacers enter this one at an impressive 40-21, having won 8 of their last 10 games without Victor Oladipo. Bojan Bogdanovic has stepped up as the main offensive weapon on this squad, averaging 17 points and 4 assists on the season. Myles Turner and Domantas Sabonis have formed a very solid Center duo, combining to average 28 points and 16 boards.

Minnesota Timberwolves

The Wolves enter this one-off minimal rest, having played in Atlanta last night. Karl Anthony Towns is still the clear danger man for this squad, averaging 23.3 points, 12.2 boards, and 2 blocks. The often-maligned Andrew Wiggins has also stepped up of late, averaging a shade under 18 points and 5 boards per contest.

Prediction: Pacers -4

Despite a loss to Detroit last time out, I think Indiana is the better team in this matchup. They are still a deep and well-rounded roster and have the rest advantage in this one. Laying just 4 points, I expect a home win and cover here.

Orlando Magic vs Golden State Warriors, 11 am
Magic +6.5

Orlando Magic

The Magic enter this matchup at 28-34 after a horiffic blown lead against the Knicks last time out. Nik Vucevic was again the standout in defeat, pouring in 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 6 assists. Aaron Gordon also had a solid night of his own, adding 26 points and 7 boards.

Golden State Warriors

In the midst of a very tough road trip, Golden State play their 3rd match in 4 days here. Stephen Curry is having yet another outstanding campaign, averaging over 28 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists on the season. Kevin Durant has also been incredibly solid, averaging 27.5 points, 7 boards, and 5.8 assists.

Prediction: Magic +6.5

Having played last night and with a huge game against Philadelphia on Sunday, this appears to be a trap game for Golden State. Orlando has been very competitive at home this season and I expect them to at least keep this one close, making them strong value here.

New York Knicks vs Cleveland Cavaliers, 11:30 am
Over 216.5

New York Knicks

The Knicks enter this one in their best form of the season, having won consecutive home games to sit 13-48. Emmanuel Mudiay led the team in scoring last time out, putting up 19 points and 8 boards in a home win over Orlando. Mitchell Robinson continued his strong play off the bench, adding 17 points, 14 boards, and 6 blocks.

Cleveland Cavaliers

The Cavaliers also enter this one in relatively strong form, having won 3 of their last 5 games. Kevin Love has been impressive since his return from injury, putting up a double-double in each of his last 3 games. Cedi Osman has also impressed of late, dropping 27 points in a loss to Portland last time out.

Prediction: Over 216.5

Cleveland’s defence has been atrocious all season and the Knicks have shown more offensive firepower of late. In line with their recent performances, I expect a fast-paced and higher scoring game here that goes over this 216.5 number.

Thursday February 28, 2019

Miami Heat vs Golden State Warriors, 11:30 am
Warriors -8.5

Miami Heat

The Heat enter this one in horiffic form, dealing with a myriad of injuries as they’ve lost 6 of their last 7. Hassan Whiteside was solid in a loss to Phoenix last time out, pouring in a quick-fire 29 points and 11 rebounds. Kelly Olynyk was also very effective, adding 28 points and 10 boards of his own.

Golden State Warriors

The Warriors rebounded from their loss on Sunday with another convincing win over Charlotte last time out. Klay Thompson led the way in this one, dropping 26 points and 5 assists in a convincing display. DeMarcus Cousins also had his best output of the season, going for 24 points and 11 boards in 31 minutes.

Prediction: Warriors -8.5

With the Heat battling a host of injuries, I just don’t think they have the depth required to compete with Golden State here. Expect big nights from both Steph and KD as the Warriors register a comfortable road victory in this one.

Atlanta Hawks vs Minnesota Timberwolves, 11:30 am
Hawks +4.5

Atlanta Hawks

The Hawks find themselves at 20-41 after a road loss to Houston last time out. Trae Young was at his dynamic best in this one, pouring in an impressive 36 points and 8 assists. He continues to form a solid duo with young big man John Collins, who had 20 points and 12 rebounds of his own.

Minnesota Timberwolves

The Timberwolves make the trip to Atlanta at 29-31 after a solid win over the Kings last time out. Karl Anthony Towns was again a beast on the interior, dropping 34 points, 21 rebounds, and 5 assists in the win. Derrick Rose continued his solid season, adding a quick-fire 20 points and 5 boards off the bench.

Prediction: Hawks +4.5

Whilst the Wolves have been solid of late, I think they’re laying too many points on the road in this one. Atlanta have been much more competitive recently, with both Young and Collins coming into their own. Expect them to at least keep this one competitive at home.

Los Angeles Lakers vs New Orleans Pelicans, 2:30 pm
Lakers -5.5

Los Angeles Lakers

The Lake Show find themselves a dismal 29-31 after consecutive losses to the Pelicans and the Grizzlies. This was despite a solid display from Brandon Ingram last time out, who dropped 32 points and 6 boards. LeBron is finding life difficult in the West, as his triple-double wasn’t even enough against Memphis.

New Orleans Pelicans

The Pelicans make the trip to LA at 27-35 after a 1-point loss at home to the Sixers last time out. Point Guard Jrue Holiday has been balling out of late, averaging 22 points, 6 assists, and 4.5 rebounds over his last 5. Julius Randle has also been a beast on the interior, averaging 21 and 7 over the same period.

Prediction: Lakers -5.5

Whilst the Lakers have been garbage of late, I expect them to come out looking for revenge here. They are still within touching distance of a playoff spot and have a very winnable matchup in this one. If they come out fully motivated, they should comfortably win and cover here.

Wednesday February 27, 2019

New York Knicks vs Orlando Magic, 11:30 am
Over 215 Points

New York Knicks

The Knicks enter this one at a dismal 12-48 after a rare home win over San Antonio last time out. Damyean Dotson led the way in this one, dropping a quick-fire 27 points that included 8 made 3’s. Young bigs Kevin Knox and Mitchell Robinson both also continue to impress, each dropping double-doubles in this one.

Orlando Magic

The Magic enter this one at 28-33 after a very impressive road win over Toronto last time out. Terrence Ross shone against his former side, dropping 28 points and 9 rebounds off the bench. Nikola Vucevic also continued his stellar play, adding 23 points and 12 boards of his own.

Prediction: Over 215 Points

Whilst Knicks games can be unpredictable, they’ve been playing at a much higher pace of late. I expect that to continue in this one, whilst Orlando’s hot outside shooting helps take this one over a relatively low total of 215 points.

Toronto Raptors vs Boston Celtics, 12 pm
Celtics +4

Toronto Raptors

The Raptors fell victim to the aforementioned Magic last time out, getting demolished at home without Kawhi Leonard. Pascal Siakam has done a stellar job picking up the slack, averaging 16 points and 7 boards per contest. If Marc Gasol can find his place in the Raptors rotation, they may very well be the top contender in the East.

Boston Celtics

The Celtics enter this one at 37-23 after a dreadful loss against Chicago last time out. Kyrie Irving was the only bright spot in this defeat, pouring in an impressive 37 points and 10 assists. To truly reach their ceiling, Boston simply needs more from wings like Jayson Tatum, Gordon Hayward, and Jaylen Brown.

Prediction: Celtics +4

Off such a poor road loss, I expect the Celtics to be fully motivated for this one. With Kawhi again recently rested for load management, this tells me that he just isn’t 100% at the moment. If he isn’t at his best for this one, I expect Boston to keep this close and cover this generous number.

Denver Nuggets vs Oklahoma City Thunder, 2:30 pm
Thunder +3.5

Denver Nuggets

The Nuggets enter this one a very solid 41-18 after a thumping win over the Clippers last time out. Nikola Jokic again led the way in this one, dropping an outstanding 22 points and 16 rebounds in the win. Paul Millsap also followed suit, adding 21 points, 16 rebounds, and 3 steals of his own.

Oklahoma City Thunder

The Thunder are the #3 seed in the West, currently 3 games behind Denver at 38-21. Paul George has been in excellent recent form, dropping 45 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists against Utah on Saturday. In the very same game, Russ Westbrook added an outstanding 43 points, 15 rebounds, and 8 assists of his own.

Prediction: Thunder +3.5

Having lost to the Nuggets twice already this season, this is the last shot for OKC at claiming the #2 seed. I think they possess the two best players on the court in this one and the individual quality of Westbrook and George should prove enough for the road win and cover.

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.