Detroit Pistons

The Pistons enter this one 24-29, right on the edge of the Eastern Conference playoff picture. Blake Griffin was excellent against the Knicks last time out, dropping 29 points, 8 assists, and 6 rebounds. Andre Drummond continued his solid interior support, adding a further 17 points, 16 boards, and 5 blocks.

New York Knicks

The Knicks make the trip to Detroit at a dismal 10-43 after losing to this very same Pistons side last time out. Dennis Smith Junior looked very solid in his first game for his new ball club, dropping 25 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists. Young big Mitchell Robinson has also been strong of late, adding a quick-fire double-double off the bench.

Prediction: Under 206.5 points

The total went comfortably under the last time these two sides played and I expect that to continue here. Both of these sides lack efficient perimeter creation and I can see a slow-paced grind-it-out style of game here.

Brooklyn Nets

The Nets enter this one at 29-27 off the back of a crucial home win over Denver last time out. This was in large part due to another excellent display from D’Angelo Russell, who had 27 points, 11 assists, and 6 rebounds. DeMarre Carroll and Shabazz Napier were both also solid off the bench, adding double-doubles of their own.

Chicago Bulls

The Bulls enter this one at a relatively dismal 12-42 off the back of 6 defeats in their last 7 matches. Zach LaVine has undoubtedly been their star man this season, averaging a very solid 23 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists. Lauri Markannen has also been great since his return from injury, averaging 18 points and 8 boards a night.

Prediction: Bulls +8.5

Whilst the Nets have been good of late, I just don’t think they’re the same team without Spencer Dinwiddie. Having just lost in Brooklyn a week ago, I also expect a more motivated Bulls effort here. Getting 8.5 points, I expect them to at least keep it close.

Sacramento Kings

Despite a blowout loss at home to the Rockets last time out, the Kings enter this one a very solid 28-26. Shooting Guard Buddy Hield has had a solid breakout season, averaging 20 points and 5 rebounds a night. His performances have been matched by young Point Guard De’Aaron Fox, who is averaging over 17 points and 7 assists of his own.

Miami Heat

The Heat make the trip to Sacramento at 25-27 after a surprising road win in Portland last time out. Hassan Whiteside stole the show in this one, dropping an impressive 28 points, 11 rebounds, and 4 steals. Even Dwyane Wade had a vintage performance, adding 22 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists of his own.

Prediction: Kings -2.5

The Kings are a solid 17-11 at home this season and should be motivated after getting blown out last time out. I think their fast-paced transition offence matches up well with Miami and should be enough for the home win and cover here.

Orlando Magic

Orlando return home at 22-32 after a double-digit road loss in Oklahoma City last time out. This was despite a solid showing from Evan ‘Don’t Google Me’ Fournier, who dropped 25 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists. Aaron Gordon also had a double-double, whilst Terrence Ross added a quick-fire 26 off the bench.

Minnesota Timberwolves

The Timberwolves enter this one a middling 25-28 after a road loss in Memphis last time out. Karl Anthony Towns was again the star of the show, pouring in 26 points, 18 rebounds, and 3 assists. Dario Saric also continued his strong recent play off the bench, dropping 22 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists of his own.

Prediction: Timberwolves

The Timberwolves have the better talent here and also enter this one with a significant rest advantage. Towns in particular is a difficult matchup for Vucevic and should help open up the Wolves offence. Expect an outright Minnesota win and cover here.

Oklahoma City Thunder

OKC enter this one at 34-19 after a comfortable home win over the aforementioned Orlando Magic last time out. Paul George again stole the show, dropping an impressive 39 points and 8 boards. Not to be outdone, Russell Westbrook notched yet another triple-double with 16 points, 16 assists, and 15 rebounds.

Memphis Grizzlies

In what could’ve been Mike Conley’s last game in a Grizzlies uniform, Memphis took care of business by beating Minnesota at home. He put up a vintage display that included 25 points, 9 assists, and 3 steals. This was complemented nicely by Rookie Jaren Jackson Junior, who dropped 23 points and 6 boards.

Prediction: Under

With at least one of Conley or Gasol likely getting traded here, the Grizzlies offence will likely struggle further here. I can see a blowout OKC win here, allowing them to rest their starters late on. This should push the pace down and result in the under cashing.

Portland Trail Blazers

The Trail Blazers enter this one at 32-21 after what was a surprising home loss to Miami last time out. This was despite another stellar display from CJ McCollum, who dropped 33 points on 13/25 shooting. Jake Layman also balled out off the bench, dropping a quick-fire 25 points and 8 rebounds.

San Antonio Spurs

The Spurs enter this one off little rest after playing late last night in Oakland. Despite a ton of change in the offseason, San Antonio find themselves in a strong position out West. DeMar DeRozan and LaMarcus Aldridge have carried the offensive load this season, whilst Rudy Gay, Bryn Forbes, and Marco Belinelli are all also averaging double figures.

Prediction: Trail Blazers -5

After a surprise loss last time out, I think Portland rebounds and gets the win in this one. They’re a very impressive 22-8 at home this season and also have the rest advantage. Laying 5 points, they appear very solid value for the win and cover.

Milwaukee Bucks

The Bucks enter this one a league-best 39-13 after a solid road win in Brooklyn last time out. Giannis Antetokounmpo was again outstanding, this time pouring in 30 points, 15 rebounds, 9 assists, and 3 blocks. Khris Middleton, Eric Bledsoe, and Malcolm Brogdon all also chimed in with double figures.

Washington Wizards

The Wizards enter this one at 22-31 after a relatively disappointing home loss to Atlanta last time out. Bradley Beal was again the star in defeat, dropping 27 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists. Jeff Green added a solid 26 and 5 off the bench, whilst former NBL legend Jordan McRae had 20 of his own.

Prediction: Bucks -11.5

Whilst the revenge factor is in Washington’s favour here, you have to question their motivation at this point. They match up horribly with this Bucks team and simply don’t have the offensive firepower to keep this competitive. Bucks by a lot in this one.

Utah Jazz

The Jazz enter this one at 30-24 after getting demolished by Houston at home last time out. Donovan Mitchell continued his fine offensive form, dropping 26 points, 9 assists, and 5 rebounds. Rudy Gobert also continues to loom as a strong Defensive Player of the Year candidate, averaging 15 points, 13 boards, and 2 blocks on the season.

Phoenix Suns

The Suns find themselves a West-worst 11-44 after yet another home defeat, this time at the hands of Houston. Sophomore Josh Jackson has got his act together of late, pouring in 25 points in each of his last 2 games. The same can be said for the recently acquired Kelly Oubre, who dropped 23 off the bench last time out.

Prediction: Under 221.5 Points

After such a horiffic home loss, I expect the Jazz to rebound here, starting with their defence. They should be able to comfortably contain a Phoenix offence bereft of much talent and keep this game under in the process.

Golden State Warriors

The Warriors enter this one at 37-15 after a well-earned 4-day break. Stephen Curry is having yet another outstanding season, averaging a shade over 29 points, 5 assists, and 5 rebounds per game. The same can also be said for Kevin Durant, who is averaging a very well-rounded 27.5 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists.

San Antonio Spurs

The Spurs make the trip to Oakland at a solid 32-23, winning 5 straight games before losing in Sacramento last time out. LaMarcus Aldridge has again been the star man this season, this time averaging an efficient 21 points and 9 boards per night. DeMar DeRozan has been just as solid, averaging 21 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists per game.

Prediction: Warriors -11

I think the Warriors are comfortably the better team here and have a history for guarding Aldridge and DeRozan well. This should make it difficult for the San Antonio offence to get going here, ultimately leading to a blowout Golden State win.

Detroit Pistons

The Pistons enter this one at a somewhat disappointing 22-29 after blowing a huge halftime lead against the Clippers last time out. Reggie Jackson continued his solid play of late, pouring in an impressive 29 points and 7 assists. Blake Griffin also had a solid game against his former side, adding 24 points and 11 rebounds.

Denver Nuggets

The Nuggets find themselves back atop the West at 37-15 after 8 wins in their last 10 games. Nikola Jokic messed around and dropped another triple-double, putting up 13 points, 16 rebounds, and 10 assists. Shooting Guard Malik Beasley has also carried the offensive load of late, averaging 22.2 points over his last 5 games.

Prediction: Over 209

With the way Jokic is playing right now, the Denver offense tends to be very consistent both home and away. A questionable Gary Harris should also allow for more breathing room for Detroit’s guards. At 209, I lean toward the over here.

Washington Wizards

The Wizards enter this one at 22-30 after a comfortable home loss to the Bucks last time out. Bradley Beal has been the main man in John Wall’s absence, averaging 24.7 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists so far this season. Trevor Ariza has also been very solid since his acquisition, averaging 14.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.1 assists.

Atlanta Hawks

Despite a 17-35 record, the Hawks have been much friskier of late and enter this one after a road win in Phoenix. John Collins delivered another excellent performance, dropping an impressive 35 points and 16 rebounds. Trae Young also continued his strong recent form, adding 27 points, 8 assists, and 7 boards.

Prediction: Hawks +6.5

After a poor start to the season, I think bettors have undervalued just how good Atlanta has been lately. The Wizards tend to play down to their competition, and I expect Atlanta to at least keep this close, making 6.5 points very good value.

Phoenix Suns

The Suns enter this one at 11-43, comfortably the worst record in the NBA. This is despite the very strong recent form of Devin Booker, who is averaging 30.6 points and 5.6 assists over his last 5 games. DeAndre Ayton has continued to enjoy a stellar Rookie campaign, averaging 16.3 points and 10.6 rebounds.

Houston Rockets

The Rockets make the trip to Phoenix a solid 30-22 after a comfortable road win in Utah last time out. James Harden was again outstanding, this time pouring in 43 points, 12 rebounds, 6 steals, and 5 assists. Gerald Green also provided some valuable minutes off the bench, dropping 7 3’s en route to 25 points.

Prediction: Rockets -8

Given Phoenix’s horrendous defence, the Harden led Houston offence is a horiffic matchup for them. I expect Harden and Paul to control the pace in this one, whilst the Manimal feasts inside. Laying just 8 at this point, I expect this to increase closer to tip-off.

New York Knicks

The Knicks enter this one at 10-41 off a truly dreadful run, winning just 1 of their last 21 games. The Kristaps Porzingis trade has drastically changed their roster, getting rid of leading scorer Tim Hardaway Jr, as well as Courtney Lee and Trey Burke. Whilst Dennis Smith could be a solid future PG, the Knicks appear very much to be in tank mode.

Memphis Grizzlies

The Grizzlies enter this one in similarly horrific form, winning just 2 of their last 19 games. Mike Conley has continued to lead the way, averaging 20.2 points and 6.3 assists. Marc Gasol is putting up a solid 15.6 points and 8.6 rebounds, whilst rookie Jaren Jackson has flashed with 13.4 points of his own.

Prediction: Under

With no line at the time of posting, I’m going under based on my projected numbers. New York are decimated after their recent trade, whilst Memphis have struggled offensively all season. In a game that will likely be tough to watch, I’m tipping a low scoring one here.

Boston Celtics

The Celtics enter this one an improving 33-19 after a comfortable win over the Knicks last time out. Kyrie Irving had another solid offensive display, dropping 23 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists. Marcus Morris also continued his impressive run of form, dropping 18 points and four made three-pointers.

Oklahoma City Thunder

The Thunder enter this one a very solid 33-18 amidst an impressive 7-game winning streak. Paul George was again excellent in Miami last night, dropping 43 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Russell Westbrook dropped yet another triple-double, this time going off for 14 points, 14 boards, and 12 assists.

Prediction: Thunder +3

Whilst this is a tough matchup to call, I think OKC’s impressive recent form gives them the edge here. They’ll be looking for revenge after an earlier loss to Boston this season and have a great opportunity here. Expect vintage displays from George and Westbrook as they at least keep this close.

Toronto Raptors

The Raptors enter this one at an impressive 37-16 despite having lost each of their last 3 games. Kawhi Leonard is still putting up very solid numbers on the season, averaging 27.6 points and 8 rebounds. Kyle Lowry also marked another All-Star selection with solid averages of 14.1 points and 9.2 assists of his own.

Los Angeles Clippers

The Clippers have largely been an up and down squad this season and currently find themselves in 8^th place out West. Tobias Harris has been their leading man this season, averaging an impressive 21 points and 8 rebounds. Lou Williams also continues to provide solid bench production, averaging 18.8 points and 5.3 assists.

Prediction: Raptors -10

Given the Raptors poor recent form, I think they’ll want to make a statement at home in this one. The Clippers have also dropped off somewhat of late, but I don’t think they have the talent to match Toronto’s front court. Raptors by double digits here.

Detroit Pistons

The Pistons enter this one at 22-28 after a home win over a decimated Mavericks side last time out. Center Andre Drummond led the way, pouring in 24 points and 20 rebounds on 11/13 shooting. Blake Griffin also had yet another stellar performance, adding 24 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists.

Los Angeles Clippers

The Clippers find themselves 28-24 after a narrow overtime loss to the rival Lakers last time out. Lou Williams was the offensive leader in this one, pouring in an efficient 24 points and 6 assists off the bench. Patrick Beverley also delivered a solid display, going for 17 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists.

Prediction: Clippers +1.5

This is a revenge play after Blake’s 44-point performance got the Pistons a win in LA a few weeks ago. I think the Clippers are comfortably the better team here and should play with the motivational edge. Getting 1.5 points, I think they win outright.

Miami Heat

The Heat enter this one at 24-26 after a huge home loss against OKC yesterday. Kelly Olynyk was Miami’s leading scorer off the bench, dropping a quick-fire 21 points and 7 boards. Hassan Whiteside had another solid double-double, putting up 12 points and 16 boards in just 20 minutes.

Indiana Pacers

The Pacers enter this one at 32-19, losing each of their last four games without Victor Oladipo. Myles Turner led the way offensively last time out, pouring in an impressive 27 points and 7 rebounds. Darren Collison has also shouldered more offensive load, dropping 16 and 10 against Orlando on Friday.

Prediction: Heat -3

After a horiffic loss yesterday, I think Miami bounces back quickly in this one. Their perimeter defence should contain a relatively weak Pacers offence, whilst Wade and Waiters provide enough offense off the bench to get the win and cover.

Sacramento Kings

The Kings enter this one at 26-25 after a convincing win against Atlanta last time out. 6 Kings players scored in double figures as the team amassed a very solid 135 points. Harry Giles was the pick of the bunch with 20 points and 7 boards, whilst Bogdan Bogdanovic added 16 points and 7 assists.

Philadelphia 76ers

The Sixers enter this one at 34-18 after a strong road win in Golden State last time out. Joel Embiid led the way, pouring in 26 points, 20 rebounds, and 5 assists in a dominant performance. Aussie Ben Simmons marked his first All-Star appearance with 26 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists of his own.

Prediction: 76ers -3

In the final game of their road trip, I expect the Sixers to keep their strong recent form up. Sacramento lack the defensive options to effectively guard any of Embiid, Simmons, or Butler. Expect a big day from Philly’s stars en route to a road win and cover.

Miami Heat

The Heat enter this one at 24-25 after a very disappointing home loss to the Bulls last time out. Shooting Guard Josh Richardson has been the key man this season, sporting averages of 17.3 points, 3.8 assists, and 3.7 rebounds. He has been capably supported by the interior production of Hassan Whiteside, who is averaging 12.5 points, 12.3 boards, and 2.3 blocks.

Oklahoma City Thunder

OKC enter this one at a very solid 32-18 having won each of their last 6 games. Paul George was outstanding against Orlando last time out, pouring in 37 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists. Russell Westbrook also had another convincing display, going off for 23 points, 14 rebounds, and 14 assists.

Prediction: Thunder -1.5

Although everyone is on OKC in this one, I just can’t see a reason to oppose them here. I think they are comfortably a better team and have the defence to stifle an average Miami offence. Laying just 1.5, I expect the quality of George and Westbrook to prove too much.

Utah Jazz

The Jazz enter this one at 29-23 after a brutal loss in Portland last time out. Shooting Guard Donovan Mitchell has been the key component of their recent run, averaging 29.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.8 assists over his last 5. Rudy Gobert has matched him with excellent interior production, averaging 15 points, 11 boards, and 3.4 blocks over the same stretch.

Atlanta Hawks

The Hawks make the trip to Utah at 16-34 after a crushing loss to Sacramento last time out. Rookie Point Guard Trae Young was solid in defeat, putting up 23 points and 8 assists. Power Forward John Collins has been their best player of late, averaging 21.2 points and 7.4 boards over his last 5.

Prediction: Under 116 1^st Half

Utah’s home defence has been excellent this season and I expect more of the same here. Offensively, I expect a slower-paced and more methodical style to their game. Especially with the 2.5 points of extra value compared to the full-game line, I’m confident in the under 116 here.

Denver Nuggets

The Nuggets enter this crucial Western matchup at 35-15 after wins in 6 of their last 7 contests. Center Nikola Jokic has continued his excellent form of late, registering 2 triple-doubles in his last 3 matches. Monte Morris did an admirable job starting last time out, putting up stats of 20 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists.

Houston Rockets

Houston enter this one at 29-21 after a disappointing loss to New Orleans last time out. James Harden had his customary phenomenal night, going off for 37 points, 11 rebounds, and 6 assists. Chris Paul put up 10 points and 9 assists in his 26 minutes but is questionable for this one with a lower back injury.

Prediction: Rockets +4.5

With Jamal Murray out and Gary Harris questionable, I could see Denver struggling to guard Houston here. They’ve had no recent success against the Rockets and it really is a terrible matchup for them. Especially if Chris Paul plays, I love the 4.5 points in this one.

Orlando Magic

The Magic enter this clash a relatively disappointing 20-31 after 7 losses in their last 8 games. Nikola Vucevic was a bright spot against OKC last time out, pouring in 27 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists. Aaron Gordon also had a very solid outing of his own, dropping 16 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists in the defeat.

Indiana Pacers

The Pacers make the trip to Orlando off a back-to-back against Washington last night. They have struggled in the absence of Victor Oladipo, losing as a favourite in Memphis before getting crushed by Golden State last time out. Bojan Bogdanovic is second on the team averaging 16 points and will need to step up with Oladipo out for the year.

Prediction: Under 211.5

Given the injury to Oladipo, both of these sides lack backcourt creation. Especially with Indiana on a back-to-back, I expect more of a slow-paced, grind it out style of game that ultimately goes under this total.

Detroit Pistons

The Pistons find their playoff hopes slowly slipping away and currently find themselves 21-28. Reggie Jackson had a rare solid night against Milwaukee last time out, pouring in 25 points and 5 assists. Blake Griffin had another stellar display, this time going for 18 points, 9 assists, and 7 rebounds.

Dallas Mavericks

The Mavericks enter this one off a back-to-back, having played in New York last night. They beat the Pistons at home just a week ago, led by 32 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists from Luka Doncic. DeAndre Jordan also contained the solid Pistons frontcourt, registering a valuable double-double to help secure the win.  

Prediction: Pistons -2

This is another game where I’m comfortable playing off the revenge factor here. Detroit narrowly lost in Dallas last week and they’ve got a notable rest advantage. Expect a big night from Blake Griffin en route to a Pistons win and cover.

Toronto Raptors

The Raptors enter this one at a very solid 37-15 after a road win in Dallas last time out. Kawhi Leonard again led the way, this time pouring in an impressive 33 points and 10 rebounds. Kyle Lowry was strong in his usual support role, adding 19 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists of his own.

Milwaukee Bucks

The Bucks currently find themselves with the best record in the NBA, sitting pretty at 36-13. Giannis Antetokounmpo was excellent against Detroit last time out, totalling 21 points, 11 assists, and 8 rebounds. He was capably supported by Eric Bledsoe, who put up 20 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds of his own.

Prediction: Raptors -2.5

Having lost twice to Milwaukee already this season, this is a game Toronto needs more in my opinion. I think they have the best player on the floor in Kawhi Leonard, who should win his matchup with Giannis. Laying only 2.5 points, I think the Raptors talent, depth, and homecourt advantage helps get it done.

New Orleans Pelicans

The Pelicans enter this one off a back-to-back against Houston yesterday. They are absolutely decimated at the moment, currently without Davis, Mirotic, Randle, Moore, and Payton. Jrue Holiday is putting up a very respectable 21 points, 8 assists, and 5 boards on the season, whilst Jahlil Okafor has started to show the same flashes that he did as a rookie.

Denver Nuggets

The Nuggets make the trip to New Orleans at 34-15 off the back of a crazy comeback win over Memphis last time out. Nikola Jokic again led the way in this one, putting up a very solid outing of 24 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 steals. Will Barton added 20 points and 5 boards in a rare start, whilst Malik Beasley had 18 off the bench.

Prediction: 1^st Half Under 115.5

With Jamal Murray still out for Denver and half of the New Orleans rotation still injured, I very much like the under here. Especially with the Pelicans on a back-to-back, I expect a slower paced one with some tired legs. At 115.5 for the first half, I heavily lean to the under.

Sacramento Kings

The Kings enter this one at 25-25 after a heavy loss to the Clippers last time out. Point Guard De’Aaron Fox is still having a breakthrough campaign, averaging 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds on the season. Buddy Hield is averaging an impressive 20 points and 5 boards, whilst Willie Cauley-Stein is putting up 13 and 9 on the interior.

Atlanta Hawks

The Hawks make the trip to Sacramento at 16-33 after road wins in 2 of their past 3 games. Trae Young was excellent against the Clippers last time out, pouring in 26 points and 8 assists. John Collins had 22 points and 6 rebounds, whilst Alex Len and Jeremy Lin combined for an impressive 32 points off the bench.

Prediction: Kings -5.5

The Kings have been covering machines at home this season and I expect that to continue here as they finally return from a long road trip. I think their strong guard play can effectively penetrate this Atlanta defence, whilst Cauley Stein and Bagley do enough on the interior. Laying 5.5, the Kings are the better and more motivated team.

Portland Trail Blazers

The Blazers enter this one at a solid 31-20, buoyed by their particularly strong 21-7 home record. C.J McCollum led the way in a win over Atlanta last time out, registering a 28-point triple-double. Seth Curry also did an admirable job filling in for the injured Damian Lillard, dropping 22 points and 4 made three-pointers.

Utah Jazz

The Jazz make the trip to Portland at 29-22 after wins in 9 of their last 10 games. Donovan Mitchell has been particularly strong of late, averaging 29.6 points, 6.2 assists, and 5.2 rebounds. Rudy Gobert has also continued his very solid form, averaging 15 points, 13 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game.

Prediction: Jazz +1

This is primarily a revenge play, with Utah’s only loss in their last 10 coming at home to Portland. They defeated the Blazers in two previous matchups this season and tend to match up very well with them. I think the wrong team is favoured here and can see Utah continuing their excellent form with a road win.