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
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
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.