Charlotte Hornets 

The Hornets enter this one at 11-11 and currently sit first place in the Southeast division. Point Guard Kemba Walker has most definitely been the star man this season, putting up impressive averages of 27 points, 6 assists and 4.5 rebounds per contest. Shooting Guard Jeremy Lamb is also having by far the best season of his career, averaging 15.5 points and 5.5 boards per game. In Marvin Williams, Nicholas Batum and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Charlotte has a capable collection of veteran wings that match up well in the modern NBA. 

New Orleans Pelicans 

The Pelicans make the trip to Charlotte sitting at 11-12 so far, largely due to their dismal 2-10 road record. They appear to be in a major dip in form of late, losing 5 of their last 6 games. None of the blame can be placed at the feet of star big man Anthony Davis, who’s averaging an impressive 32 points and 13 rebounds in his last 5 games. Jrue Holiday and E’Twaun Moore continue to form one of the NBA’s better backcourts, averaging an efficient 35 points per game between them. Where the Pelicans have struggled of late is on the wings, where they’ll be at a noticeable disadvantage in Charlotte. 

Prediction: Hornets -2.5 

This is definitely a contrarian play, but I think Charlotte are simply the better team here. They’ve had a very strong start to the season and could easily be 16-6 if close games had gone their way. I think they match up well with New Orleans and expect a comfortable cover here.

Miami Heat 

The Heat enter this one with a dismal 8-13 record, Saturday’s win over the Pelicans breaking their streak of 5 losses in 6 games. Injuries to both Goran Dragic and Tyler Johnson have led the Heat without a proper starting Point Guard and the offence has suffered as a result. The recent return of Heat legend Dwyane Wade has helped ease the burden, the fan favourite averaging 17 points and 4 assists per game over his last 5. Center Hassan Whiteside has also continued to provide a solid presence on the interior, averaging over 13 points and rebounds per game.  

Utah Jazz 

The 11-12 Jazz seem to have righted the ship of late, winning each of their last 3 road games. Sophomore Shooting Guard Donovan Mitchell was excellent in Saturday’s win over Charlotte, pouring in 30 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Center Rudy Gobert continues to be one of the association’s premier big men, averaging 17 points, 12 boards and 2.5 blocks per game over his last 5. In Joe Ingles, Jae Crowder and the newly acquired Kyle Korver, Utah now has 3 capable shooting swingmen that should help resurrect this offence. 

Prediction: Jazz -2 1st Half 

I’ve had some more success betting on the Jazz lately and I’m keeping the trend going here. Miami have struggled mightily of late and I think they’re overvalued after their win over New Orleans. Utah have a significantly stronger rotation and I expect them to race out to a big first-half lead here.

Dallas Mavericks 

The Mavericks had won 7 of their last 8 games prior to Saturday’s loss to the Lakers and currently find themselves at 10-10. Rookie Luka Doncic has been a revelation this season, averaging 18.5 points, 6.5 rebounds and 4 assists per game. Small Forward Harrison Barnes has also noticeably raised his level of late, pouring in 20 or more points in 3 of his last 4. In J.J. Barea and Devin Harris, the Mavs have a very strong combination of reserve guards that can significantly outscore most opposing second units. 

Los Angeles Clippers 

The Clippers have won 9 of their last 10 games and make the trip to Dallas with a West-leading 15-6 record. Forward Tobias Harris has been en fuego of late, averaging 24 points and a shade under 9 boards per game over his last 5. Montrezl Harrell continues his campaign for sixth man of the year, averaging 19.5 points and 8.5 boards over his last 5. Small Forward Danilo Gallinari is having one of the better seasons of his career, whilst veteran Shooting Guard Avery Bradley appears to be rounding into form after returning from injury. 

Prediction: Mavericks +2.5 

Whilst the Clippers are in a phenomenal run of form, they’ve had a lot of luck with their schedule of late. I believe they’re overrated in this spot and that there’s significant line value on Dallas here. The Mavs have every chance of taking this outright, but the extra 2.5 points gives us some flexibility here.

There are definitely a few standout matches for today’s daily multi. As an 11-point favourite, the Lakers appear a near lock to beat Phoenix at home. With Marc Gasol questionable, I expect Philly to continue their strong home form against Memphis. The Jazz appear to have turned a corner of late and their inclusion really bumps up this price.

New York Knicks 

Despite a 3-game winning streak last week, the Knicks have largely struggled this season. They currently sit 7-16 and last place in the Atlantic Division. One positive for New York this season has been the strong contributions they’ve got from their young players. Reserve Guards Damyean Dotson and Allonzo Trier have provided an excellent spark off the bench, averaging a shade under 23 points between them this season. Center Enes Kanter has also continued to do a strong job controlling the interior, averaging 15 points and 12 boards on the campaign.  

Milwaukee Bucks 

The Bucks make the trip to New York sporting an impressive 15-6 record that sits them comfortably atop the Central Division. Small Forward Giannis Antetokounmpo is looking like a front-runner for MVP, averaging 27 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists per game. Khris Middleton is a very capable complementary player, averaging 19 points, 5.5 boards and 4 assists of his own, including 41% from 3. In Brook Lopez, the Bucks have one of the best shooting centres in the association, really freeing up Giannis. Despite their middling 4-4 road record, I expect Milwaukee to make light work of this struggling Knicks side here.  

Prediction: Bucks 1st Half -4 

The Bucks have the significant talent edge in this one and I expect them to get out to a ferocious start. New York simply doesn’t have anyone to contain Giannis or this explosive Bucks offence. As the -8 full game opens some backdoor cover opportunities, I’m very confident in the first half line -4.

Washington Wizards 

Despite a disastrous season so far, the Wizards don’t sit too far off the pace in the Southeast division. Part of their mini resurgence has been the improved form of Shooting Guard Bradley Beal, who is averaging 22 points and 7 assists per game over his last 5. Power Forward Markieff Morris is also starting to look more at home in his new bench role, averaging an impressive 17 points and 8 boards over his also 5. The long-term injury to Dwight Howard (in part due to his ‘lifestyle proclivities’) means the Wizards will likely struggle on the interior for the foreseeable future. 

Brooklyn Nets 

After a relatively strong start to the season, the Nets have struggled mightily of late. They’ve just lost 3 home games by double digits to the Timberwolves, 76ers and Jazz. Some of this is attributable to the injury to Shooting Guard Caris LeVert, who was the offensive catalyst for this team. Brooklyn has struggled offensively in his absence, with a lot of the burden falling on Point Guard D’Angelo Russell. A bright spot for the Nets this season has been the impressive play of young big man Jarrett Allen, the 20-year-old Sophomore currently averaging 12.5 points and 8.5 boards per game. 

Prediction: Under 227.5 Points 

With both of these sides struggling somewhat offensively and coming off back-to-backs, I feel as though this total is too high. I’m expecting a slower paced game here as both sides look to rebound from their injuries. 227 gives us a ton of room to play with as I expect this one to end between 215-220.

Minnesota Timberwolves 

The Timberwolves enter this one in very impressive form, winning 7 of their last 9 games to sit with an 11-11 record. Center Karl-Anthony Towns has been immense since the Jimmy Butler trade, averaging 23 points, 12 boards and 3 assists per game over his last 5. Small Forward Robert “Bobby” Covington has also done an admirable job of replacing Butler, averaging 22.5 points and 8 rebounds over his last 2 games. In Jeff Teague, Derrick Rose and Tyus Jones, the Wolves have 3 capable backcourt playmakers that can provide quality regular minutes.  

Boston Celtics 

It has been a relatively disappointing season for the Celtics, who enter this one at 12-10 and 3rd place in the Atlantic division. Point Guard Kyrie Irving has started to establish himself as the offensive focal point of this team, averaging 21.5 points and 8.5 assists over his last 5. Second-year forward Jayson Tatum has also been much better of late, averaging 18 points and shooting 45% from 3 over his last 5. Moving to more of a 6th man going forward, we’ll have to see how Gordon Hayward progresses in his first season back from injury. 

Prediction: Celtics +2.5 

There is too much line value on the Celtics for me to ignore here. Just last week they were favoured by 3 on the road to an upstart Mavericks side. Whilst Minnesota’s results have improved of late, they haven’t really faced anyone notable on their schedule. I think Boston has every chance of winning this outright and will happily take the +2.5.

I expect very comfortable road wins for both the Bucks and Raptors against two of the worst teams in the NBA. Assuming Chris Paul is back, I expect the Rockets to also make light work of the lowly Bulls at home. Golden State looks a tempting 4th leg at $1.50, but I’d wait to see how Steph Curry looks before pulling the trigger.

Brooklyn Nets 

The Nets enter this one at 8-14 after losing each of their last 4 games. They’ve struggled to generate consistent offence in Caris LeVert’s absence, with D’Angelo Russell shooting just 6/25 last time out. Center Jarrett Allen continued his strong sophomore season with another double-double, supported capably in the frontcourt by Rondae Hollis-Jefferson. Spencer Dinwiddie continues to emerge as one of the NBA’s premier backup Point Guards, averaging 20 points and 5 assists over his last 5. Against the gritty style of Memphis, I can see the Nets struggling in this one. 

Memphis Grizzlies 

The Grizzlies make the trip to Brooklyn having lost each of their last 3 games to sit at 12-8 on the season. This included their most recent loss to Toronto, where they faded heavily in the second half. Center Marc Gasol led the way in this one with 27 points, however he did suffer an injury that makes him a game-time decision in Brooklyn. Point Guard Mike Conley also continued his strong start to the campaign, adding in an efficient 20 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. The recent return of Power Forward JaMychal Green has aided Memphis, the big man averaging 10 points and 7 boards over his last 5 games.  

Prediction: Grizzlies Moneyline at $1.86 

I expect Marc Gasol to be fit to play in this one, making $1.86 for the Grizzlies to win excellent value in my opinion. I don’t see Brooklyn managing to score enough points on their strong defence, whilst Conley and Gasol do enough on offence to break this 3-game slide and claim a road win.

Miami Heat

The Heat enter this one as one of the more disappointing teams in the NBA, losing 5 of their last 6 to find them at 7-13 on the season. They clearly miss injured Point Guard Goran Dragic, as the offence has struggled mightily of late. Center Hassan Whiteside is having one of the better seasons of his career, averaging 14 points, 13 rebounds and 3 blocks per game. Shooting Guard Josh Richardson has also emerged as a solid offensive piece, averaging 20 points and 4 rebounds on 42% shooting from 3 this season.  

New Orleans Pelicans 

The Pelicans rebounded from 4 straight losses with a home win over Washington on Thursday and currently find themselves at 11-11. Center Anthony Davis is having a typically excellent season, averaging 27 points, 13 rebounds and a shade under 3 blocks per game. He is capably supported by vastly underrated Point Guard Jrue Holiday, who is putting up averages of 20 points, 9 assists and 4.5 rebounds per game himself. Nikola Mirotic and Julius Randle have complemented Davis to form one of the better frontcourt rotations in the association. 

Prediction: Under 229.5 points 

With the Heat struggling to generate reliable offence of late, I’m confident in the under here. Pelicans games tend to be higher scoring, but I expect their strong interior defence to shut down Miami here. Ultimately, I expect this one to end around the 215-220 range.

Portland Trail Blazers 

Portland enter this one at 13-8, having lost their last 3 games before Thursday’s win over Orlando. Point Guard Damian Lillard came to the Blazers rescue in this one, dropping an impressive 41 points and 8 rebounds, a performance that included 10 made three-pointers. Center Jusuf Nurkic was also strong on the interior, putting up 16 points, 13 boards and 5 assists. Even Nik “Sauce Castillo” Stauskas got in on the act, adding 18 points and 5 made-three pointers off the bench. Against a tough Denver side, Portland will need to lift their level here. 

Denver Nuggets 

The 14-7 Nuggets have looked very strong of late, comfortably winning each of their last 4 games. They enter this one off the back of Wednesday’s demolition of the Lakers where they won by 32 points. Power Forward Paul Millsap led the way in this one, his 20 points and 11 rebounds overpowering the Lakers interior. Guards Jamal Murray and Malik Beasley also added 20 points of their own in what was a very strong team display. With Gary Harris expected back for this one, I’m really starting to like the look of this Denver side. 

Prediction: Nuggets +2.5 

To me, the Nuggets are simply the better team here. Portland have struggled to find form lately, failing to cover in each of their last 5 games. I expect this trend to continue here and predict the Nuggets to actually win outright, making me very comfortable taking the +2.5. 

Another strong night of fixtures means there are several excellent candidates for the daily multi. The Celtics and Thunder are at home against two of the worst teams in the NBA and should really be locks here. Similarly, the Pistons and Sixers match up very well at home against lesser opponents and should comfortably get the job done. Ultimately, this is a relatively low–risk 4-leg multi with a very appealing payout.

Toronto Raptors 

The Raptors enter this one with comfortably the best record in the NBA this season, winning 6 straight to sit at 18-4. Kawhi Leonard has had a very strong start to the campaign and looks to be well in the running for MVP, currently averaging 24 points and 8.5 boards per game. Point Guard Kyle Lowry is having another excellent campaign at age 32, leading the league with over 10 assists per game so far. Serge Ibaka has also had a resurgent season playing more minutes at center, averaging 16.5 points and 7.5 boards on 56% shooting so far.  

Golden State Warriors 

The Warriors have rebounded nicely from their recent slump to win 3 straight and sit at a 15-7 record. Kevin Durant has been out of his mind lately, averaging 46.5 points, 9.5 rebounds and 8 assists over his last 2 games. He has been capably supported by Klay Thompson, who’s put up at least 25 points in each of his last 5. These performances have been very much needed with the rest of Golden State’s rotation struggling, no other player scoring more than 8 points against Orlando. With Stephen Curry nearing a return, the dark times for the Dubs look to be nearly over. 

Prediction: Raptors Moneyline 

Even if Curry comes back for this one I expect him to be on a minutes limit. Toronto are the better team at the moment and have the matchup advantage with Draymond Green out. The line isn’t up for this one at the time of writing, but I’m confident in a Raptors win here. 

Los Angeles Lakers 

The Lakers enter this one 11-9 after a truly hideous loss in Denver last time out. LeBron just wasn’t himself offensively, going 5-15 from the field as he put up only 14 points and 2 assists. A positive for the Lakers was the impressive display from youngsters Kyle Kuzma and Brandon Ingram, who combined to go 15/25 in this one. Point Guard Lonzo Ball also suffered an ankle injury, which, given his recent performances, may actually help the Lakers in this one. Lance ‘Born Ready’ Stephenson has supplied a much-needed boost for the Lakers bench this season and I expect he’ll be ready to go against his former team.  

Indiana Pacers 

The Pacers travel to LA at 13-8 after consecutive road wins without Victor Oladipo. Reserve Center Domantas Sabonis has been excellent of late, putting up averages of 17.5 points, 11.5 boards and 5 assists over his last 5 games. He’s been capably supported in the second unit by sharpshooter Doug McDermott, who sunk 21 points and 5 threes in Phoenix last time out. The Pacers starting lineup has struggled to generate consistent and reliable offence without Victor Oladipo. With Oladipo listed as doubtful for this one, I think the Lakers will be too strong at home. 

Prediction: Lakers 1-10 

The Lakers are the better team here and should rebound from consecutive losses with a better display at home. Indiana lacks quality wing defenders to guard LeBron and I think he’ll prove the difference in this one. I don’t see a blowout here and think the 1-10 margin represents strong value. 

Sacramento Kings 

The Kings enter this one at 10-10, consecutive losses putting somewhat of a dent in their otherwise strong start. Their improved play is in large part due to Point Guard De’Aaron Fox, who’s averaging an efficient 17.5 points, 7.5 assists and 4 board per game. Newly acquired Power Forward Nemanja Bjelica has provided an excellent stretch element that has allowed the Kings offence to excel this season. 2nd overall pick Marvin Bagley also looks like a contender for the All-Rookie team, averaging a shade under 13 points and 7 boards so far.  

Los Angeles Clippers 

The Clippers enter this one as the #1 team in the Western Conference, sitting pretty with a 14-6 record. Forward Tobias Harris continued his excellent start to the campaign against Portland on Monday, putting up an impressive 34 points and 11 boards. Reserve big man Montrezl Harrell still leads the way for 6th man of the year, averaging 19.5 points and 10 boards over his last 5. I’d be remiss not to mention Rookie Point Guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who has shown strong flashes of late and become a regular fixture in the starting lineup. 

Prediction: Under 235.5 Points 

Whilst both of these teams are more than capable offensively, I think this total is overinflated. Both of these sides have gone under this total in 7 of their last 10 games and the Clippers enter this one off minimal rest. I expect a competitive game that ends around 225 points, providing strong value on the under. 

Even on a smaller slate of NBA action, there’s still some great options available for our daily multi. As home favourites against two injured opponents, I expect both the Raptors and Lakers to get the job done tonight. If you’re after a third leg, you’d be hard-pressed to look past the thriving New Orleans Saints in the NFL.

Brooklyn Nets 

The Nets have largely struggled of late, losing 4 of their last 5 to sit at 8-13. D’Angelo Russell was excellent in their recent loss to Philadelphia, pouring in 38 points, 8 assists and 8 rebounds. Center Jarrett Allen has also emerged as a very promising young big man, dropping in 17 points and 10 boards in the same game. A major strength of this Nets side is their excellent depth, particularly in the backcourt. Spencer Dinwiddie has been excellent off the bench this season, adding another 31 points and 5 assists against Philly. 

Utah Jazz 

The Jazz start this road trip at 9-12 after suffering a huge loss at home to Indiana on Monday. It’s tough to figure out exactly what is going wrong with a team that was so good near the end of last season. Rudy Gobert has still been one of the premier big men in the NBA, averaging 15 points, 12.5 boards and 2 blocks on 70% shooting. Aussie Joe Ingles is averaging a casual 13 points, 4.5 assists and 4 boards in another strong campaign. Sophomore Shooting Guard Donovan Mitchell has regressed somewhat from his excellent rookie campaign and it is hoped he’ll be back from injury here. 

Prediction: Jazz -3 

We had success backing Utah as a road favourite on Monday and plan to continue the trend here. Even with their poor performances of late, they still have a huge talent advantage in this one. I expect Favors and Gobert to dominate on the interior and Mitchell to sparkle in his return en route to a Jazz cover. 

Houston Rockets 

The Rockets have had a very disappointing start to the campaign and find themselves at 9-10 after 3 straight losses. This is despite the excellent recent play of Shooting Guard James Harden, who is averaging 40 points and 10 assists over his last 5 games. Eric Gordon has also stepped up in the absence of Chris Paul, averaging 32 points in his 2 recent starts. With Paul questionable in this one, the Rockets suspect rotation is sure to be tested again by this upstart Mavs side. 

Dallas Mavericks 

The Mavericks have rescued their season over the past fortnight, winning 6 of their last 7 games to find themselves 9-9. Luka Doncic has firmly established himself as the frontrunner for Rookie of the Year, averaging 19 points, 6.5 rebounds and 4 assists so far. Harrison Barnes has also looked impressive since his return from injury, averaging 20 points on 51% shooting from 3 over his last 5 games. Point Guard J.J. Barea is also providing an excellent spark off the bench, averaging 16 points and 6 assists on 60% from the field over his last 5. 

Prediction: Mavericks +6.5 

It can be tough to handicap this game with a lot of players in question. Ultimately, I think Houston’s thin rotation is a huge issue that the Mavericks can exploit here. Assuming Doncic and Dennis Smith play here, I expect Dallas to keep this one close, if not claim the win outright. 

Portland Trail Blazers 

The Trail Blazers have fallen back to earth after their hot start to the season, losing each of their last 3 games. This is despite strong performances from the backcourt duo of Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum, who have combined to average 48 points per game this season. Bosnian big man Jusuf Nurkic has formed an excellent pick and roll combo with Lillard and the Blazers will hope that he’s available for this one. Portland has decided not to stagger Lillard and McCollum this season, providing a lot of pressure on their bench unit that has struggled of late. 

Orlando Magic 

The Magic have been largely very competitive this season and find themselves only half a game back in the Southeast division. Center Nikola Vucevic has been in an excellent run of form, averaging 24 points, 12.5 boards and 5 assists over his last 5 games. Swingman Terrence Ross has also provided some much-needed scoring off the bench, putting up 28 points in Tuesday’s narrow loss to Golden State. Power Forward Aaron Gordon has emerged as a quality young starter for Orlando and they’ll hope he’s back from injury in this one. 

Prediction: Magic +7.5 

The Magic have been rather competitive of late and I believe they’re still underrated by the general betting public. Portland have struggled recently with some injuries to their rotation and I don’t see them blowing out Orlando here. Especially through the key number of 7, I’m very confident in taking the Magic plus the points. 

Another big slate of games provides ample opportunity for a daily multi. The 76ers, Hornets and Clippers should all comfortably win home games against 3 of the worst teams in the NBA. At $1.40, the Pelicans also represent strong value here and really help to beef this price up.

Detroit Pistons 

The Pistons enter this one with a very respectable 10-7 record, winning 4 of their last 5 games. Blake Griffin continues to lead the way for this team, averaging an impressive 25 points, 10 boards and 5 assists per game. Center Andre Drummond has further added to the Pistons interior advantage, averaging 19.5 points and 16 boards per game on the campaign. Guards Reggie Jackson and Reggie Bullock have made for a strong backcourt this season, whilst Stanley Johnson and Langston Galloway have provided that much-needed push off the bench. Detroit have generally fared well as a home favourite this season, a trend I expect to continue here. 

New York Knicks 

After a 4-14 start to the season, the Knicks enter this one off 3 consecutive wins against likely playoff teams. Enes Kanter was outstanding against Memphis on Monday, putting up an impressive 26 rebounds to go along with his 21 points. Tim Hardaway has continued his strong offensive season, averaging 23 points and shooting 43% from 3 over his last 5. Rookie Shooting Guard Allonzo Trier has also impressed of late, averaging 11.5 points per game on efficient shooting. Despite these 3 straight wins, I still don’t really think the Knicks have turned a corner and they’ll likely be competing for a top 5 pick this season. 

Prediction: Pistons 1st Half -3.5 

The Pistons have earned a reputation as a bit of a flat-track bully for their ability to handle lesser opponents at home. I think they have a huge advantage on the interior and should win this rather comfortably. Laying only 3.5 points in the first half on their strong home court is excellent value here. 

Memphis Grizzlies 

The Grizzlies enter this home tilt at an impressive 12-7, suffering only their second home loss of the season against New York on Monday. Conley and Gasol did all that they could in that one, combining for 50 points, 15 assists and 12 rebounds. Rookie big man Jaren Jackson also continued his strong start to the campaign, registering an impressive 7 blocks and 16 points on 4/4 shooting from 3. The reserve backcourt of Shelvin Mack and Wayne Selden has also provided some much-needed offence this season. The Grizz have historically had a very strong home court and I expect them to be well up for the Raptors here. 

Toronto Raptors 

The Raptors make the trip to Memphis at 17-4, comfortably the best record in the NBA this season. Kawhi Leonard has been excellent in his first season in Toronto, averaging 24.5 points, 8.5 boards and 3 assists per game so far. Point Guard Kyle Lowry is also having another impressive campaign, averaging just over 15 points and 10 dimes per game. The strength of this Raptors team is their incredible depth and they go a legitimate 10 deep. Pascal Siakam, Danny Green, Serge Ibaka and OG Anunoby are all versatile defensive players that figure to play key roles in the playoffs.  

Prediction: Grizzlies +5 

Despite Toronto’s very impressive start to the season, I think getting 5 points with the Grizz at home is immense value. I expect another big game from Conley and Gasol and expect the rest of the roster to lift their game after the loss to New York.  

Denver Nuggets 

The Nuggets seem to have rebounded from their mini slide, winning 3 straight games to sit 13-7. Center Nikola Jokic has emerged as one of the association’s premier big men, averaging 16.5 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists per game this season. Point Guard Jamal Murray also appears to have taken the next step, putting up impressive averages of 17.5 points, 4.5 boards and 4.5 assists. In Gary Harris, Paul Millsap and the injured Will Barton, the Nuggets have one of the most versatile and offensively capable starting fives in the NBA. 

Los Angeles Lakers 

The Lakers enter this one with an 11-8 record, having won 7 of their previous 8 before their loss to Orlando on Monday. LeBron James has elevated his level of late, averaging 30 points, 8 boards and 6 assists over his last 5, shooting 47% from 3 in the process. Power Forward Kyle Kuzma has emerged as a strong rotation option for this team, whilst Center JaVale McGee has continued his excellent start to the campaign. L.A. will need Point Guard Lonzo Ball to lift his game to move up the west standings, the sophomore averaging only 8 points on 40% shooting from the field this season. 

Prediction: Lakers +4.5 

The already thin Nuggets rotation has taken another blow, with Gary Harris questionable for this one. Given their strong recent form, I believe the Lakers are very good value in this price. They’ve got every chance of going into Denver and taking the win, however 4.5 points gives us enough room to play with. 

It’s not always easy to find strong multi candidates on only a 5-game slate, but this appears to be strong value. The Pistons and Heat find themselves at home to two of the worst teams in the NBA, both of these sides hoping to sneak into the bottom of the Eastern Conference playoff picture. I expect them both to get the job done comfortably here and really like the $1.76 price point.

Washington Wizards 

The Wizards enter this one at 7-12, winning 2 of their last 3 at home to the Clippers and Pelicans. Small Forward Otto Porter has been better of late, notching 29 points on 12/15 shooting last time out against New Orleans. John Wall added a very complete stat line of 22 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists, whilst Shooting Guard Bradley Beal added 18 points and 8 assists of his own. The mercurial Austin Rivers even added 18 points off the bench, whilst Power Forward Markieff Morris has looked rejuvenated in his new bench role. Against a struggling Houston side, Washington is very capable of making it 3 wins in 4 here. 

Houston Rockets 

The Rockets enter this at a very disappointing 9-9, having lost back-to-back road games to Detroit and Cleveland. This has been despite the strong recent performances from Shooting Guard James Harden, who is averaging a shade over 35 points and 8 assists over his last 5 games. Center Clint Capela has also emerged as a strong interior presence this year, averaging 20 points, 14 boards and 3 blocks over his last 5. Chris Paul’s absence was likely a major reason for the loss in Cleveland, with the Rockets having suffered through a very thin rotation all season. 

Prediction: Wizards +3.5 

I think this line represents strong value on the Wizards here. If the fixture was reversed, it’d be tough to favour the Rockets by 9.5 points. I think the Wizards have figured something out with their new starting lineup and have every chance to win this. You’ll likely be able to get +4 by tip-off with all the money on Houston so far. 

Utah Jazz 

The Jazz bounced back big time yesterday with a huge win in Sacramento. Point Guard Ricky Rubio led the way in Donovan Mitchell’s absence, totalling an impressive 27 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Center Rudy Gobert also patrolled the paint as always, putting up 18 points, 15 boards and 5 assists of his own. Joe Ingles added a further 18, whilst the deep and versatile Jazz bench combined for 50+. Utah’s poor start to the season has surprised many, but they definitely have the talent to right the ship here. 

Indiana Pacers 

The Pacers enter this one with a middling 11-8 record, losing each of their last 2 games without All-Star Victor Oladipo. Domantas Sabonis has been very effective filling in for Myles Turner, scoring an efficient 15+ points in 4 of his last 5. Small Forward Bojan Bogdanovic has established himself as a quality starter in this league, averaging 15.5 points per game and shooting an impressive 52% from 3. In Cory Joseph and Darren Collison, the Pacers are getting 48 effective Point Guard minutes per game, which should be buoyed by Oladipo’s impending return here. 

Prediction: Pacers +5 

With the Jazz coming off a back-to-back and Oladipo probably returning here, I’m comfortable taking the Pacers +5 points. They match up well with this Jazz team and dominated them just last week. Their deep rotation is well suited to the Utah altitude and I expect them to keep this one competitive. 

Golden State Warriors 

Despite their recent struggles, the Warriors enter this one in top spot in the West with a 14-7 record. Kevin Durant has been outstanding over his last 5 games, averaging 32 points, 10 boards and 5 assists over this stretch. He’s been capably supported by Shooting Guard Klay Thompson, who’s averaged 27 points and 4 rebounds over this same stretch. That said, Golden State still very much miss both Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. KD and Klay are having to do everything offensively and may struggle to blow out this upstart Magic side. 

Orlando Magic 

Orlando enter this one at a respectable 10-10, managing a nice road win against the Lakers last night. Center Nikola Vucevic continued his excellent form, putting up an efficient 31 points, 15 rebounds and 7 assists. Power Forward Aaron Gordon has continued to improve, averaging 17 points and 7.7 boards whilst shooting 37% from 3. Reserve swingmen Terrence Ross and Jonathan Simmons combined for 26 points and 10 boards to lead a bench unit that has had a resurgent campaign. Against a thin Golden State side, I can see Orlando keeping this one close. 

Prediction: Magic +8  

Having had some recent success betting against Golden State with Oklahoma City and Sacramento, I’m happy to keep the trend going here. Stephen Curry and Draymond Green are both out of this one, really thinning out Golden State’s already top-heavy rotation. With all the money coming in on the Warriors, I’m happy to take a contrarian approach with Orlando here, especially when receiving 8 points. 

There are several candidates for the daily multi in today’s slate of action. Even though they’ve been largely inconsistent this season, I expect both Minnesota and San Antonio to pick up road wins against two of the worst sides in the NBA. Whilst I think they’re slightly overpriced, Golden State should also extend their winning streak to 3 here at home to Orlando. At $2.54, this is excellent value that I can’t pass up.

Memphis Grizzlies 

The Grizzlies enter this one sporting an impressive 12-6 record, including 7 wins in their 8 games at home so far this season. They’d won 7 of their previous 8 games prior to a loss against the Clippers on Saturday. Center Marc Gasol has been excellent of late, averaging 22 points and 13 boards in his last 5 games. He has unsurprisingly been strongly supported by Point Guard Mike Conley, who’s averaged an impressive 23 points and 8 assists over the same stretch. Veteran wings Garrett Temple and Kyle Anderson provide strong perimeter defence, whilst rookie big man Jaren Jackson has been a revelation so far. 

New York Knicks 

The Knicks enter this one with a relatively disappointing 6-14 record, however they have recorded wins over Boston and New Orleans in each of their last 2. Emmanuel Mudiay has provided a spark since being thrust into the starting lineup, notching 27 points and 7 boards against the Pelicans on Saturday. Shooting Guard Tim Hardaway continues to shoulder the offensive load, averaging 23 points, 3.5 boards and 3 assists this season. Center Enes Kanter also provides a much-needed interior presence for this team, averaging 15 points and 11 boards on the campaign. 

Prediction: Over 207.5 points 

With the Knicks porous defence, I think this total is too low here. Memphis are a capable offensive team when Conley and Gasol are firing, which they should have every opportunity to do here. I expect this to end up around 215-220.

Sacramento Kings 

The Kings enter this one with a surprising winning record after their first 19 games, off little rest after last night’s tilt in Golden State. The play of sophomore Point Guard De’Aaron Fox has been a big reason behind this start, averaging 18 points, 7.7 assists and 4.3 rebounds so far. Big man Willie Cauley-Stein has also been excellent so far, comfortably averaging 15.5 points and 8.5 boards per game. Veterans Iman Shumpert and Nemanja Bjelica provide some much-needed shooting to the starting lineup, whilst Rookie Marvin Bagley and swingman Bogdan Bogdanovic have led an upstart bench unit. 

Utah Jazz 

The Jazz enter this one with a surprisingly disappointing 8-11 record, comfortably losing 5 of their last 6 games. Center Rudy Gobert continues to lead the way for this team, averaging an impressive 15 points and 12.5 boards to go along with his excellent PER. Aussie Joe Ingles has also been very consistent for this side, averaging 13 points, 4 rebounds and 4.5 assists per contest. The poor performances from backcourt pairing Ricky Rubio and Donovan Mitchell have been largely responsible for Utah’s struggles this season, both men combining to shoot just 40% from the field. 

Prediction: Jazz -3.5 

With the Kings exceeding expectations so far and the Jazz in terrible form, this is simply a line value play here. Utah were 8-point favourites in Sacramento just a month ago and not enough has changed to warrant this decrease for me. Utah to bounce back here with a comfortable win and cover against a tired Kings side.

Portland Trail Blazers 

The Trail Blazers return home at 12-7 after losing 4 of 6 on their recent road trip. Damian Lillard has been excellent although slightly less efficient this year, still putting up averages of 26 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds. Center Jusuf Nurkic has established himself as an interior threat, enjoying comfortable averages of 15 points and 10 rebounds per game. Shooting Guard C.J. McCollum has also enjoyed an uptick in form of late, averaging 23 per game on 47% from 3 over his last 5 contests. The first game back from a road trip is never easy and I can see the Blazers struggling here. 

Los Angeles Clippers 

The Clippers make the trip to Portland with a very impressive 12-6 record, having won 6 of their last 7 games. Montrezl Harrell continues to lead the way for 6th man of the year, averaging an astounding 19.5 points and 9.5 boards off the bench over his last 5. His toughest competition for the award is probably teammate Lou Williams, who’s putting up an impressive 18.5 points and 4.5 assists per game of his own. Starting Forward combination Tobias Harris and Danilo Gallinari continue to impress, combining to average a shade under 40 points and 14 boards this season. 

Prediction: Clippers +4 

Portland have been on the road for so long that the first game is always a tough one. This, coupled with the Clippers strong recent form, makes me think they are excellent value +4 points. I think they have every chance to win this outright, but the extra 4 points provides some wiggle room.

There are a ton of great candidates for today’s NBA daily multi. I think the Suns, Knicks and Hawks are definitely 3 of the worst teams in the NBA. They should be easy work for the Pistons, Grizzlies and Hornets tomorrow. Similarly, I expect Toronto to breeze past a Miami side that has struggled recently. I also expect the Lakers to win tomorrow, however they’re a bit overpriced so I haven’t included them here. I’m comfortable sticking with this four-fold at $2.34.