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
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
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.