Toronto Raptors 

The Raptors enter this at an impressive 24-9, good enough for the best record in the NBA. Kawhi Leonard has been an excellent leader for this team so far, averaging an efficient 26.4 points and 8.5 rebounds per contest. Power Forward Serge Ibaka is having a resurgent season, averaging an impressive 16.7 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. Veteran Point Guard Kyle Lowry has also been a stabilising presence, averaging 14.2 points and 10 assists of his own. Veterans like Fred VanVleet, Danny Green, and Jonas Valanciunas do an excellent job rounding out this rotation.  

Cleveland Cavaliers 

The Cavaliers have struggled so far in the post-LeBron era, winning just 8 of their first 32 contests. That said, there have been a few bright spots with this side of late. Chief among these is Aussie Point Guard Matthew Dellavedova, who is averaging 12 points and 4.8 boards off the bench over his last 5. Despite facing some media criticism, Rookie Guard Collin Sexton has also been solid, averaging 15 points on over 40% shooting from 3. The recent switch to Larry Nance at Center appears to have improved Cleveland, leaving them faster and more versatile on both ends. 

Prediction: Cavaliers +12.5 

With Kyle Lowry likely out for this one, the Raptors offence probably won’t have its usual efficiency. This is also a trap game for Toronto, with a matchup in Philly on deck tomorrow. Facing a lowly Cleveland side, I just don’t see them being motivated, allowing the Cavs to keep it close. 

Boston Celtics 

The Celtics enter this one at 18-12, their recent 8-game winning streak snapped by consecutive defeats to the Pistons and Suns. Point Guard Kyrie Irving is having one of the better seasons of his career, averaging a shade under 23 points, 6.5 assists, and 5 boards on very efficient shooting. The move of Marcus Smart to the starting lineup appears to have given Boston some much-needed grit and toughness from the start. Sophomore Forward Jayson Tatum is also delivering some much-improved performances, averaging 18 points and 7.4 boards over his last 5.  

Milwaukee Bucks 

The Bucks make the trip to Boston at 21-9 off the back of 5 wins in their last 6. Giannis Antetokounmpo has emerged as a frontrunner for MVP, sporting impressive averages of 26.7 points, 12.9 points, and 6.1 assists. 3rd year Guard Malcolm Brogdon is also having a solid campaign, averaging an extremely efficient 15.3 points, 4.5 boards, and 3.4 assists per game. In Brook Lopez, Milwaukee appears to have found the perfect shooting Center to complement Giannis. 

Prediction: Bucks +1 (Best Bet) 

This is a game the Bucks desperately want to win. After being knocked out by the Celtics in the 2018 playoffs and falling in Boston earlier this year, revenge will no doubt be on their mind. Injuries to both Al Horford and Aron Baynes leave Boston decimated in the frontcourt, which I expect the Bucks to take full advantage of. 

Portland Trail Blazers 

Portland appear to be back on track, winning each of their last 3 to sit 18-13. Point Guard Damian Lillard is having another outstanding campaign, averaging an efficient 27.2 points, 6 assists, and 5 rebounds per game. Shooting Guard C.J. McCollum has also put up some resurgent performances of late, averaging 23 points and 3 boards over his last 5. Center Jusuf Nurkic also provides a solid presence on the interior, averaging 14.4 points and 10.1 boards per game. 

Utah Jazz 

The Jazz make the trip to Portland at a disappointing 15-17, a win against Golden State last time out breaking a streak of 4 losses in 5. Shooting Guard Donovan Mitchell is again leading the way, averaging 21 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists per contest. Rudy Gobert provides one of the league’s best interior presences, averaging 14.5 points, 12.5 boards, and 2 blocks per game. Aussie Joe Ingles provides a calming influence to this starting five, averaging a well-rounded 12 points, 4.5 assists, and 4 boards per game. 

Prediction: Trail Blazers -2 

Off an emotional win against Golden State, this appears to be a bit of a trap game for Utah. They have a back-to-back tomorrow where they face the rival Oklahoma City Thunder. Portland is the team in much better form of late and they’ve got the motivational edge here, making them strong value laying just 2 points. 

On such a large slate, there are surprisingly few options for the daily multi. Laying 4 points at home to Detroit, I’m backing a healthy Hornets team to extend their lead in the Southeast here. With Nikola Mirotic out and Anthony Davis questionable, I don’t think New Orleans has the depth to keep up with the Lakers here. At $2.34, this is immensely strong value. 

Miami Heat 

The Heat enter this one at 13-16, off the back of consecutive solid road wins over the Grizzlies and Jazz. News broke yesterday that star Point Guard Goran Dragic will miss 8 weeks after undergoing knee surgery. Whilst this is a huge blow, the Heat have the talent to thrive in his absence. Shooting Guard Josh Richardson is having an outstanding season so far, averaging 18.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. He has been capably supported by franchise legend Dwyane Wade, who’s averaging 16.3 points, 5 assists, and 4.5 boards over his last 5.  

Houston Rockets 

The Rockets enter this one on a resurgent winning streak that has seen them finally break .500. James Harden has been phenomenal of late, dropping 47 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, and 5 steals against Utah earlier this week. Center Clint Capela is providing a nice frontcourt complement, averaging 17.2 points and 11.7 boards this season. If Chris Paul can return to his 2017/18 level, the Rockets have a real chance to rapidly climb the West standings. After a back-to-back last night, it won’t be easy for Houston here in Miami. 

Predictions: 

Heat +4 (Best Bet) 

With almost all the action on Houston, Captain Contrarian is going the other way again. Miami enjoys a significant rest advantage in this one, playing their last game on Monday. The news of Dragic’s long-term injury will motivate this team in the short-term, starting here in prime time. Moreover, I think Houston’s strong recent form has actually overrated them in the current market. This is still a thin team that could struggle in a back-to-back. With all the action on Houston, I can see this line further moving in Miami’s favour before tip-off. 

Under 208.5 

Backing the underdog and under the points total is a natural complement and this is no exception. When taking a look at the games Miami has won of late, they tend to be rock fights. Without Goran Dragic, they are really devoid of perimeter playmaking in the starting lineup. Similarly, Houston’s offence hasn’t been nearly as good as last season, relying on James Harden brilliance to stay afloat. In front of the TNT cameras, I’m expecting another low-scoring tilt here that ends round 200 points. 

Los Angeles Clippers 

The Clippers enter this in a horrendous run of form, having lost 6 of their last 7 games to sit 17-13 and 3rd in their division. This has been despite the excellent recent play of Tobias Harris, who poured in 39 points and 11 rebounds against Portland last time out. Rookie Guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has also flashed a ton of promise, putting up 24 points and 3 assists in that same game. Despite having one of the deepest rosters in the NBA, the Clippers have struggled immensely in the absence of 6th man Lou Williams. 

Dallas Mavericks 

After a slow start to the season, the Mavericks enter this one at a respectable 15-14. They have one of the largest home-road dichotomies in the NBA, winning only 2 of their 13 road contests. Rookie Luca Doncic has emerged as a future star, averaging 19 points, 8.4 assists, and 7.6 rebounds over his last 5 contests. Forward Harrison Barnes is also having one of the best seasons of his career, pouring in an efficient 30 points against Denver last time out. Center DeAndre Jordan will definitely play the Clippers tough and is averaging a solid 11 points and 14 boards this season. 

Predictions: 

Dallas Mavericks +4 

This is another scenario where all the money is coming in on the favourite and I just can’t see why. On recent form I believe the Mavericks are definitely the better team here. In Doncic, Barnes, and veteran Wesley Matthews, they’ve got a very solid wing rotation that matches up well with LA here. DeAndre Jordan will no doubt want revenge on his former team and I expect a big day on the interior for him. Through the key number of 3, I have to throw my support behind Dallas in this one. 

Under 221.5 

This is another one where I think the total is somewhat inflated. The Clippers have struggled offensively in the absence of Lou Williams and I don’t see them turning it around here against Dallas’ improved defence. The Mavericks have gone comfortably under this total in 4 of their last 6 games, a trend I expect to continue here. Likewise, the Clippers have been held under 100 in 2 of their last 4 games, indicative of their inconsistent shooting. Even in the modern NBA, 221.5 is a lot of points that gives us solid breathing room on the under. 

Indiana Pacers 

The Pacers enter this one at 20-10, looking like one of the NBA’s form teams after winning 7 straight games. Shooting Guard Victor Oladipo looked back to his best against the Knicks, pouring in 26 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists, and 5 steals. Center Myles Turner has also been very impressive of late, dropping at least 23 points in 3 of his last 4 games. Reserve big man Domantas Sabonis has also had an excellent season off the bench, averaging 14 points and 10 boards on 62% shooting from the field.  

Cleveland Cavaliers 

Cleveland enter this one off a relatively disastrous season so far, winning just 7 of their first 30 games. The team has struggled immensely offensively without the presence of Kevin Love. Small Forward Cedi Osman has been somewhat of a bright spot, averaging 11 points and 5 boards per game. Rookie Guard Collin Sexton has also shown flashes, averaging 15.3 points and 3 rebounds on 40% shooting from 3. Aussie Matthew Dellavedova will look to rejuvenate this Cavs bench, adding 13 points and 7 assists against Philadelphia last time out. 

Prediction: Pacers -12 

These are two teams travelling in opposite directions. Whilst 12 points is a lot to lay, I think the Pacers have a huge talent edge in this one. Their solid defence should shut down the Cavs offence, whilst I expect another big outing from Oladipo. 

Atlanta Hawks 

The Hawks enter this one at a dreadful 6-23, allowing 144 points to the Nets last time out. Power Forward John Collins has been a noticeable bright spot for this team, averaging 23.2 points and 13 boards over his last 5. Center Dewayne Dedmon was also solid offensively, adding in 24 points and 12 boards of his own. Despite being inefficient from the field, Trae Young has shown some promise this season, averaging 15.4 points and 7.2 assists. With little to play for, you have to question Atlanta’s motivation the rest of the way. 

Washington Wizards 

The Wizards enter this one at 12-18, managing a resurgent win against Los Angeles last time out. John Wall was outstanding in this one, adding 40 points, 14 assists, and 6 rebounds.  Bradley Beal was excellent in a complementary role, dropping 25 points and 12 rebounds of his own. Even Reserve Forward Sam Dekker chimed in with a solid stat line, totalling 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists. With Trevor Ariza set to make his return here, the Wizards get another solid piece as they make their playoff push. 

Prediction: Wizards 1st Half -1.5 

Not only have Atlanta’s performances been poor of late, they’re also playing with a lack of motivation. Their defence has been atrocious lately and I expect John Wall to have another strong performance here. Laying only 1.5 points in the 1st half, the Wiz look like very solid value here. 

Brooklyn Nets 

The Nets appear to be in much better form of late, winning each of their last 5 to sit 13-18. D’Angelo Russell has performed much better recently, dropping 32 points, 7 assists, and 6 rebounds against Atlanta. Recently extended Point Guard Spencer Dinwiddie has also been excellent, averaging 24.6 points and 6 assists over his last 5. Sophomore Center Jarrett Allen has also shown signs of promise, averaging 12 points and 8 boards per game this season. It’ll be interesting to see if this Nets streak holds up against LeBron and the surging Lakers. 

Los Angeles Lakers 

The Lakers enter this one at 18-12 and in a much better position out West. This is despite a disastrous 18-point loss in Washington last time out. LeBron wasn’t near his best in this one, totalling just 13 points and 3 assists on 5/16 shooting. Power Forward Kyle Kuzma is having an excellent sophomore campaign, averaging 22.2 points and 5.6 boards over his last 5. Shooting Guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope also had a big one last time out, pouring in 26 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists. 

Prediction: Lakers -2 

Despite the Nets strong recent form, I continue to think that they’re overvalued. LeBron is clearly the best player on the floor in this one and will have the Lakers motivated after a poor display in Washington. Laying only 2, I think the Lake Show are very strong value today. 

A bit of a different theme in today’s multi with less action on the board. Against two of the worst sides in the NBA, both the Pacers and Wizards appear solid value to get the job done today. I’m also expecting a Lakers win, which really helps beef this up to an appealing $2.99 price.

Brooklyn Nets 

The Nets enter this one of an impressive 4-game winning streak that has taken them to 12-18. Reserve Point Guard Spencer Dinwiddie has been outstanding of late, averaging 25 points and 5.5 assists over his last 5 games. Starting Point Guard D’Angelo Russell is also having a solid season, averaging 17.5 points and 6 assists of his own. Latvian big man Rodion Kurucs has looked solid since joining the starting lineup, averaging 14 points in his previous two starts. Brooklyn will be looking to make it a surprising 5 straight wins when the lowly Hawks come to town. 

Atlanta Hawks 

The Hawks make the trip to Brooklyn at a precarious 6-22, having lost 6 of their last 7 games. Power Forward John Collins has looked very solid since his return from injury, leading the Hawks with impressive averages of 17.7 points and 9.4 boards. Rookie Point Guard Trae Young continues to put up solid counting stats, averaging 15.1 points and 7.7 assists of his own. Based off their poor start, Atlanta look to have a good chance of adding a 3rd player to this solid young core in the 2019 Draft. 

Prediction: Hawks +8 

Having won 4 straight, I believe the bookies are starting to overrate the Nets here. This is still an inconsistent team that is capable of losing to anyone. Getting 8 points, I’m happily taking Atlanta here and will sprinkle some on the moneyline too.

Washington Wizards 

The Wizards enter this one at a precarious 11-18, having just made a trade for Trevor Ariza. This is despite the strong play of Shooting Guard Bradley Beal, who is averaging 29 points, 6 assists, and 4 boards over his last 5. Point Guard John Wall is also having another solid year, averaging 20.8 points and 8.7 assists of his own. After trading away both Kelly Oubre and Austin Rivers, you have to wonder how the Wizards rotation will hold up here. 

Los Angeles Lakers 

The Lakers have had a relatively strong season so far and enter this one after yesterday’s tilt in Charlotte. The PED’s are still clearly working for LeBron, as he enjoys averages of 28.4 points, 7.6 boards, and 7 assists per night. Forward Kyle Kuzma is also looking like the Lakers best sophomore, averaging 18.1 points and 5.7 rebounds per night. Lance ‘Born Ready’ Stephenson is providing a nice spark off the bench, pouring in 17 points against Houston on Friday. 

Prediction: Lakers +1 

Despite the Lakers being on a back-to-back, I think the wrong team is favoured in this one. I don’t anticipate Ariza playing in this one, with the Lakers talent and depth proving too much. Lakeshow by 5+ here.

Dallas Mavericks 

The Mavericks enter this one at an impressive 15-12 despite a surprising loss to Phoenix last time out. Rookie Luka Doncic is having an outstanding campaign, averaging 17.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per contest. Small Forward Harrison Barnes has also been outstanding on the wing, averaging a shade under 18 points and 4.5 boards of his own. Franchise legend Dirk Nowitzki made his debut in that loss to Phoenix and will be looking to get back to winning ways here. 

Sacramento Kings 

The Kings enter this one at 15-13 after suffering a heartbreaking loss to Golden State last time out. This was despite an excellent performance from Shooting Guard Buddy Hield, who poured in an efficient 27 points. Big-man Willie Cauley-Stein won the battle on the interior, totalling 22 points and 11 boards of his own. Point Guard De’Aaron Fox was again outstanding, adding 25 points and 9 assists. After a crushing loss, you have to wonder how motivated Sacramento will be here. 

Prediction: Mavericks -5 

I think the Mavericks have a clear matchup advantage on the wing here. With a very strong homecourt and the rest advantage, expect another big one from Luka Doncic as they cruise past Sacramento here. 

The Pacers have looked very strong since Victor Oladipo’s return and should comfortably take care of the Knicks at home here. At the end of a long road trip, I also expect Miami to struggle against the Pelicans. And, as outlined earlier, I expect the Mavericks to take care of business at home against the Kings. At $2.17, this is a strong value play. 

A note to all bettors that this is another game taking place on a neutral court in Mexico City. 

Orlando Magic 

Orlando play their second consecutive game in Mexico City here, defeating the Bulls 97-91 on Friday. Center Nikola Vucevic was the main man in this one, pouring in an outstanding 26 points and 10 rebounds. Shooting Guard Evan ‘Don’t Google Me’ Fournier is also having a quietly solid season, averaging 15 points, 4 assists, and 3 rebounds. In Aaron Gordon and Jonathan Isaac, Orlando has a young and versatile pair of Forwards that should be interesting to watch for years to come. 

Utah Jazz 

Utah enter this one at a relatively precarious 14-15, finding themselves 4th in the Northwest division. Center Rudy Gobert is having another very solid campaign, averaging 14.6 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 2 blocks per contest. He has been capably supported by frontcourt mate Derrick Favors, who is averaging a shade under 14 points and 7 boards over his last 5. In Donovan Mitchell, the Jazz also have a future offensive star to build around. The Sophomore Shooting Guard is currently averaging 20 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists this season. 

Prediction: Magic +5 

Orlando matches up well with Utah in this game. A shooting Center like Vucevic forces Gobert out of the paint and makes the Jazz defence more vulnerable. Orlando are also more adapted to the Mexico City conditions, having played here on Friday. Through the key number of 5, I expect them to at least keep this one close. 

Charlotte Hornets 

The Hornets enter this one at 14-13, buoyed by a trio of consecutive wins. Point Guard Kemba Walker was excellent against Detroit last time out, dropping 31 points, 9 assists, and 8 rebounds. Tony Parker is having a resurgent season off the bench for Charlotte, averaging 10.6 points and 4.3 assists per contest. Where the Hornets have struggled is in the frontcourt. Despite their hefty salaries, players like Nic Batum, Marvin Williams, and Cody Zeller just aren’t producing on the court. 

Los Angeles Lakers 

The Lakers enter this one at 17-11, following a relatively embarrassing road loss in Houston on Friday. LeBron and Kyle Kuzma are continuing to carry the offensive load for this side, combining for 53 in that loss to Houston. JaVale McGee has also continued to provide solid minutes at Center, averaging 11.6 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks. The Lakers defence has struggled of late with no Brandon Ingram in the lineup. They gave up a 50-point triple-double to James Harden on Friday, something that just isn’t acceptable. 

Prediction: Hornets -0.5 

Despite their middling record this season, the Hornets are a very respectable 10-5 at home. They have several capable wing defenders that can do a job containing LeBron here. Similarly, I expect another huge offensive display from Kemba en route to another home victory.

Memphis Grizzlies 

The Grizzlies enter this one atop the Southwest division after a very solid season so far. Point Guard Mike Conley looks like he could make his debut All-Star appearance, averaging a very respectable 20.3 points, 6.5 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per game. Marc Gasol and rookie Jaren Jackson Junior have also combined to form one of the Association’s premier frontcourts. While the performances from the top 3 have garnered the most attention, the rest of the Grizzlies rotation has been very strong this season. Shelvin Mack, Garrett Temple, JaMychal Green and Marshon Brooks have all been key contributors to this side. 

Houston Rockets 

The Rockets have largely struggled this season and enter this one with a 13-14 record. James Harden has been one of the only bright spots for this team, dropping an incredible 50-point triple-double against LA on Friday. Despite criticism about his weight, Center Clint Capela is also having another solid season. The Swiss big man is currently putting up 17.4 points and 11.7 rebounds per night on 64% shooting. If the Rockets could get better production from their atrocious bench, they’d definitely be in contention out west. 

Prediction: Grizzlies +3 

Despite being on a back-to-back, I believe there is strong line value on Memphis here. They have been the better team this season and have a much deeper rotation than Houston. I’ll happily take the 3 points but wouldn’t be surprised if the Grizz take this outright.

Another day, another promising multi opportunity. Facing the lowly Chicago Bulls at home, I expect the Spurs to continue their recent momentum. Similarly, I expect a huge display from Karl-Anthony Towns as the Wolves take one in Phoenix. Despite being on a back-to-back, OKC also have what it takes to beat the struggling Clippers. At $1.94, this is well worth a play.

Boston Celtics 

The Celtics enter this one at 17-10 off the back of 7 consecutive wins. This included an outstanding overtime road win in Boston last time out. Kyrie Irving led the way, pouring in 38 points and 7 assists. Marcus Morris has also been fantastic since being thrust into the starting five, adding 27 points and 9 boards of his own. Small Forward Jayson Tatum is also showing promise after a slow start, averaging 17.5 points and 7 rebounds over his last 5 games. With Hayward and Horford both likely out for this one, the Celtics get a brief reprieve against the lowly Hawks. 

Atlanta Hawks 

The Hawks have struggled mightily all season and make the trip to Boston sporting a 6-21 record. Whilst Rookie Point Guard Trae Young has been inefficient, he is still enjoying impressive averages of 15.7 points and 7.3 assists per game. Sophomore Power Forward John Collins has given Atalanta a noticeable boost since his return, averaging 18.3 points and 9 rebounds per game on 60% shooting. Small Forward Taurean Prince is another important piece of the Hawks young core, averaging 15 points of his own. In another long season, the Hawks appear to be playing for draft position. 

Prediction: Under 224.5 points 

I think the smothering Celtics defence will be able to really limit an inefficient Hawks offence here. With Hayward and Horford likely still out, expect more of a slow-paced and methodical offence that takes this under the relatively high total. 

Sacramento Kings 

The Kings enter this Pacific division matchup at a very impressive 15-12, winning 5 of their last 6 games. Point Guard De’Aaron Fox has been at the centre of this recent run, averaging 20.4 points and 7.8 assists over his last 5. Power Forward Nemanja Bjelica has also provided Sacramento with a solid stretch four option, pouring in 25 points last time out against Minnesota. Bogdan Bogdanovic looks like a potential 6th Man of the Year contender, averaging 15.4 points, 3.6 assists, and 3.4 rebounds of his own. In front of a raucous home crowd, expect the Kings to be well up for this one. 

Golden State Warriors 

Golden State enter this one at 19-10 after suffering a brutal 20-point home loss to the Kawhi-less Raptors. This was in spite of another strong performance from Small Forward Kevin Durant, who poured in an efficient 30 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists. Stephen Curry is also looking like an MVP frontrunner, averaging 29 points, 5.7 assists, and 5.1 rebounds on the campaign. Both Draymond Green and Klay Thompson have had relatively down seasons so far and will be looking to get back on track here. 

Prediction: Kings +8 

With how well the Kings have been playing of late, I think there is definite line value on them here. They are a young and athletic team who will play hard in front of a fantastic home crowd. Getting 8 points, I expect Sacramento to at least keep this one competitive. 

Denver Nuggets 

Despite a host of injuries, the Denver Nuggets currently lead the western conference with an impressive 18-9 record. Center Nikola Jokic has been excellent all season, averaging an impressive 17.1 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 7.6 assists. Point Guard Jamal Murray is also carrying a lot of the offensive load, averaging 17.5 points and 5 assists this season. With Gary Harris and Paul Millsap out for an extended period, a lot is riding on the Nuggets bench players. Forward Juan Hernangomez has answered the call, averaging 13.6 points and 6.8 rebounds over his last 5. 

Oklahoma City Thunder 

The Thunder have bounced back from an 0-4 start to currently sit second in the West with a 17-9 record. Paul George has been OKC’s best player this season, averaging 24.3 points and 8 boards per night. Russell Westbrook has been back to his best since returning from injury, now averaging a triple-double on the campaign. OKC also have one of the NBA’s premier Centers in Steven Adams, who is currently averaging 15.6 points and 9.6 rebounds. Dennis Schroder has provided much-needed offence off the bench, averaging 17 points and 5 assists off the bench. 

Prediction: Thunder -2 

I’ve been fading the Nuggets of late and plan to continue that trend for the foreseeable future. With injuries to Millsap, Harris, and Barton, I think their rotation is too decimated to hang with teams like OKC. I think Steven Adams can contain Jokic here, whilst Westbrook and George dominate offensively. 

There are definitely a few options for the daily multi today. Against 3 of the worst teams in the NBA, the Celtics, Hornets, and Bucks should have no trouble getting over the line. The Grizzlies are a somewhat risky play, but I expect their homecourt to prove too much for the visiting Heat. At $2.09, this is a multi I’m very comfortable playing.

Houston Rockets 

The Rockets enter this one at 12-14, beating Portland at home last time out to end a 3-game skid. Despite going only 2-12 from the field, Chris Paul managed to fill up the stat sheet en route to a triple double. Reigning MVP James Harden is having another solid campaign this year, averaging 30 points, 8 assists, and 5 rebounds per night. What really boosted Houston in their win over Portland was an unusually strong game from the bench. They had 3 double figure scorers that really helped supplement the starting 5. Against a surging Lakers side, things won’t be easy for Houston here. 

Los Angeles Lakers 

The Lakers have been one of the NBA’s form teams of late, winning 6 of their last 7 games to sit 17-10. Power Forward Kyle Kuzma has been fantastic of late, pouring in 33 points and 7 rebounds in Tuesday’s win over the Heat. LeBron has also raised his level recently, averaging 29.5 points, 9.2 assists, and 7.2 rebounds over his last 5. In JaVale McGee and Tyson Chandler, the Lakers are now finally getting 48 solid minutes per night from the center position.  

Prediction: Lakers +5.5 

I’ve had good success fading the Rockets of late and I plan to continue that trend here. The Lakers have been the better team this season and 5.5 points represents immense value in this one. Expect another big night from LeBron as the Lakers keep this one competitive, possibly stealing an outright win. 

San Antonio Spurs 

After facing a crisis a fortnight ago, the Spurs have rebounded with 3 consecutive double-digit conference wins to sit 14-14. Shooting Guard DeMar DeRozan is having a very solid campaign, putting up season averages of 24.1 points, 6.2 assists, and 5.6 rebounds per night. Power Forward LaMarcus Aldridge has also raised his level of late, enjoying averages of 18.2 points and 9.7 rebounds per game. Point Guard Bryn Forbes provided some much-needed offence against Phoenix last time out, dropping 24 points and 11 boards. 

Los Angeles Clippers 

The Clippers appear to have regressed from their excellent start, losing 4 of their last 6 to sit 17-10. They were embarrassed by a Toronto team missing Kawhi Leonard last time out, losing by 24 points at home. Small Forward Tobias Harris is having a quietly underrated season, averaging 21 points and 8 boards per game. Not only that, he’s also shooting 50% from the field and 40% from 3. The usually strong second unit has taken a hit with the absence of Shooting Guard Lou Williams, who is out for at least another fortnight with a hamstring injury. 

Prediction: Under 223 points 

With no Williams here, I expect the usually strong Clippers offence to struggle. They’ve gone under this number in 3 of their last 4 games, with the Spurs having done the same in both of their last 2. This should be more of a slow-paced and defensive game, making under 223 look very appealing. 

A note to all bettors that this one takes place on a neutral court in Mexico City. 

Orlando Magic 

Orlando appear to have regressed slightly of late, losing 3 straight games to sit 12-15. Center Nikola Vucevic has had the best season of his career, averaging 20.4 points and 11.5 boards whilst shooting 40% from 3. Aaron Gordon is beginning to emerge as a very solid young big, averaging 17.5 points and 8.5 boards over his last 5 games. Jonathan Simmons has looked like a very capable wing player for this Magic rotation, however he’s been ruled out for this one with injury. 

Chicago Bulls 

The Bulls enter this one in probably the worst form of any team in the NBA, losing 9 of their last 10 games to sit 6-22. After a strong start against Sacramento last time out, they had a dreadful second half and ended up losing by 19 points. Shooting Guard Zach LaVine has been one of few bright spots for the Bulls this year, averaging a shade under 24 points, 5 boards, and 5 assists. In Lauri Markannen and Wendell Carter, they also have two promising young bigs that should form a nice partnership for years to come.  

Prediction: Magic -4.5 

This can be a tough game to handicap since it’s on a neutral court. That said, I’ve had success fading the Bulls of late and will continue to do so. Not only are they at a talent disadvantage almost every night, but I think Jim Boylen is one of the worst coaches in the league. Laying less than 5 points, I’m confident in an Orlando win and cover here.  

Pretty simple gameplan for today’s daily multi; fade two of the worst teams in the NBA. Phoenix have been in horrendous form of late and I just don’t see how they stand up to the upstart Mavericks without Devin Booker. As touched on earlier, I just can’t back the Bulls right now. Steve Clifford is a very serviceable coach who should lead Orlando to victory here. At combined odds of $2.03, I think this is excellent value.