Tuesday 29 January, 2019

Tuesday 29 January, 2019

Tim Hollis
Charlotte Hornets vs New York Knicks, 11 am
1st Half Under 111.5

Charlotte Hornets

The Hornets enter this one at 23-25 after a road loss to the Bucks last time out. Kemba Walker has continued to be the main man this season, averaging a very impressive 24.7 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.3 rebounds. Jeremy Lamb has added a solid 15 points and 5.5 boards, whilst Malik Monk and Tony Parker combine for 20 a night off the bench.

New York Knicks

The Knicks enter this one at 10-38 after yet another disappointing home loss yesterday, this time to Miami. Tim Hardaway Junior again led New York in scoring, putting up 22 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists in the defeat. None of the other starters scored in double figures, however Trey Burke and Damyean Dotson combined for 30 off the bench.

Prediction: 1st Half Under 111.5

The Knicks offence has been pretty dismal lately and I don’t see them lighting it up here off a back-to-back. Charlotte has been solid at home defensively this season and will look to control the pace here. At 111.5 for the first half, I strongly lean under.

Bet now: Hornets vs Knicks
Boston Celtics vs Brooklyn Nets, 11:30 am
Celtics -9.5

Boston Celtics

The Celtics enter this one at 30-19 after a home loss to Golden State last time out. Kyrie Irving was again the Celts best player, dropping 32 points, 10 assists, and 6 rebounds. Al Horford had a very efficient 22 points and 13 boards, whilst Jayson Tatum added 20 points of his own in the defeat.

Brooklyn Nets

The Nets make the trip to Boston at 27-23 after 6 consecutive victories. D’Angelo “Let’s keep Lonzo Instead” Russell has been their star man this season, averaging 19.2 points, 6.4 assists, and 3.8 rebounds per contest. Center Jarrett Allen is also having a very solid campaign, averaging 11 points and 9 boards per game. The recent injury to Spencer Dinwiddie will provide added strain on the Nets backcourt.

Prediction: Celtics -9.5

Whilst the Nets are in some excellent form, the Celtics have been just as good of late. I think they’ll rebound off the loss to Golden State with a very solid home win here. Brooklyn will need to adjust their rotation after the Dinwiddie injury and may struggle initially.

Bet now: Celtics vs Nets
Memphis Grizzlies vs Denver Nuggets, 12 pm
1st Half Under 106

Memphis Grizzlies

The Grizz enter this one 20-30 after a rare home win and cover against Indiana last time out. Mike Conley led the way as per usual, pouring in an efficient 22 points and 11 assists. Marc Gasol had a solid 18 points and 7 rebounds, whilst rookie Jaren Jackson Junior added 20 points and 6 boards of his own.

Denver Nuggets

The Nuggets enter this one at 33-15 after a comfortable home win over Philadelphia last time out. Nikola Jokic messed around and dropped another triple-double, this one highlighted by 32 points and 18 rebounds. Backup Center Mason Plumlee also had an efficient night off the bench, dropping a quick-fire 17 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists.

Prediction: 1st Half Under 106 Points

The Grizzlies have played at a very slow pace of late, which I can see continuing here. With Jamal Murray’s status in doubt for this one, Denver’s offence likely won’t be at its best either. Especially at 106 points, the 1st half under looks like a safe play.

Bet now: Grizzlies vs Nuggets

Monday 28 January, 2019

Tim Hollis
Oklahoma City Thunder vs Milwaukee Bucks, 10 am
Thunder -1

Oklahoma City Thunder

The Thunder enter this one at a solid 30-18 off the back of 4 straight victories. Russell Westbrook has put up great counting stats of late, averaging 23.2 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 11.6 assists per contest over his last 5. Paul George has arguably been OKC’s best player this season, averaging 29.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 5.6 assists over that same stretch.

Milwaukee Bucks

The East-leading Bucks have won 6 straight games to find themselves an impressive 35-12. Giannis continued his excellent form against Charlotte last time out, pouring in 34 points, 14 rebounds, 3 steals, and 3 blocks. Point Guard Eric Bledsoe is having a very solid season in a complementary role, averaging 20.4 points and 4.4 boards over his last 5.

Prediction: Thunder -1

Whilst the Bucks have been an ATS darling this season, I don’t think they match up all that well with OKC. Paul George is one of the few defenders who can capably contain Giannis, making it much more difficult for support players to get their points. Expect a close affair here that the Thunder ultimately take home late.

Bet now: Thunder vs Bucks
Dallas Mavericks vs Toronto Raptors, 11 am
Raptors -3.5

Dallas Mavericks

The Mavericks have fallen off somewhat of late and currently find themselves 22-26 on the season. Rookie Luka Doncic has still been very solid, pouring in 32 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists against Detroit last time out. Dennis Smith Junior has also provided some solid Point Guard minutes since his return, averaging 18 points, 5 rebounds, and 4.5 assists over his past 2.

Toronto Raptors

The Raptors make the trip to Dallas at 36-15 off the back of consecutive road losses to Indiana and Houston. This was despite another excellent display from Kawhi Leonard, who had 32 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists. Pascal Siakam was also solid in a complementary role, dropping 22 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists.

Prediction: Raptors -3.5

Off the back of consecutive road losses, I expect the Raptors to get back to winning ways. In Kawhi and Danny Green, they have excellent perimeter defenders that should be able to contain Doncic. Laying 3.5 on the road, I’m confident Toronto gets it done here.

Bet now: Mavericks vs Raptors
New York Knicks vs Miami Heat, 11:30 am
Knicks +5.5

New York Knicks

The Knicks enter this one a disappointing 10-37 after losing 16 of their last 17 games. Tim Hardaway has been one of the few bright spots for the Knicks Tape this season, averaging 19.4 points and 3.3 rebounds on the season. Emmanuel Mudiay is also playing better of late, averaging 14.7 points and 3.9 assists of his own.

Miami Heat

The Heat travel to New York at 23-24 after a road win over Cleveland last time out. Justise Winslow was very impressive in this one, pouring in 27 points and 7 rebounds to lead the way. Dwyane Wade also added 13 off the bench, whilst Hassan Whiteside and Derrick Jones Junior both had impressive double doubles.

Prediction: Knicks +5.5

Despite such a poor run of recent form, I can’t help but feel as though the Knicks are undervalued here. They’ve played very tough in recent home losses to both the Rockets and Sixers. They match up decently with the Heat and should be able to score consistently in this one. Getting 5.5 points, I expect them to at least keep it close.

Bet now: Knicks vs Heat

Sunday 27 January 2019

Tim Hollis
Memphis Grizzlies vs Indiana Pacers, 12 pm
Pacers -3.5

Memphis Grizzlies

The Grizzlies have really tailed off of late and enter this one after a home game against Sacramento yesterday. Despite putting up solid counting stats, both Conley and Gasol have been less efficient of late, each shooting 43% from the field and 35% from 3. Rookie Jaren Jackson Junior remains a bright spot on the roster, averaging 13.5 points, 4.5 boards, and a block per game.

Indiana Pacers

The Pacers enter this one a strong 32-15 after a home win over the Raptors last time out. Thaddeus Young was the star performer, dropping 23 points and 15 rebounds in the victory. Myles Turner had a double-double, whilst Darren Collison also added 17 points and 8 assists. The sour point of this win was the news that star Shooting Guard Victor Oladipo will be out for the season.

Prediction: Pacers -3.5

In the first game after Oladipo’s injury, I expect the Pacers to come out with a point to prove here. I can’t see the value in backing the Grizzlies here when you consider their horiffic form and back-to-back. At only 3.5 points, I expect Indiana to get it done.

Bet now: Grizzlies vs Pacers
Denver Nuggets vs Philadelphia 76ers, 1 pm
Under 226

Denver Nuggets

The Nuggets find themselves 31-15 after a road loss in Utah last time out. Nikola Jokic was again the star man, putting up an impressive 23 points, 21 rebounds, and 6 assists. Will Barton also had a performance to remember off the bench, adding 22 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists of his own.

Philadelphia 76ers

The Sixers enter this one a solid 32-17 after consecutive wins against Houston and San Antonio. Joel Embiid led the way last time out, pouring in 33 points and 19 rebounds. Aussie Ben Simmons also impressed, adding 21 points, 15 assists, and 10 rebounds of his own. With Butler and Embiid out, he’ll need to carry the load here.

Prediction: Under 226

Given the expected absences of Butler and Embiid, I can see the Sixers struggling for points in this one. Denver has had a very good home defence this season, with most opponents being unable to cope with the altitude. At 226 points, I can see this even going up before tip-off.

Bet now: Nuggets vs 76ers
Portland Trail Blazers vs Atlanta Hawks, 2 pm
Trail Blazers -9

Portland Trail Blazers

The Blazers enter this one at a solid 30-20, helped by their impressive 20-7 home record. Point Guard Damian Lillard is having yet another outstanding campaign, averaging 26 points, 6 assists, and 4.5 rebounds. He has been capably supported by running mate CJ McCollum, who is averaging a shade under 21 points and 4 rebounds.

Atlanta Hawks

Atlanta makes the trip to Portland at 15-32 after a very solid 20-point road win in Chicago last time out. John Collins continued his phenomenal performances of late, pouring in 35 points and 8 rebounds on 14/16 shooting. Rookie Trae Young has also been much improved lately, averaging 18 points, 8 assists, and 5 boards over his last 5 games.

Prediction: Blazers -9

Despite Atlanta’s improved recent form, Portland still boast one of the NBA’s best homecourt advantages. I expect solid production from Dame and CJ against one of the league’s poorer perimeter defences. Expect another comfortable home win for the Blazers here.

Bet now: Blazers vs Hawks

Saturday January 26, 2019

Tim Hollis
Cleveland Cavaliers vs Miami Heat, 11:30 am
Heat Over 109.5

Cleveland Cavaliers

The Cavs enter this one a dismal 9-40 after another horiffic loss in Boston last time out. Whilst the bright spots are hard to pick out on this struggling side, Cedi “the Next LeBron” Osman did pour in an impressive 25 points and 8 boards. Center Ante Zizic had 19 points and 8 rebounds, whilst Rookie Guard Collin Sexton added 16 points of his own.

Miami Heat

The Heat enter this one at 22-24 having lost 4 of their last 5 games. Shooting Guard Josh Richardson has still been the standout player this season, averaging a shade under 18 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists. Dwyane Wade is also handling the playmaking load in the absence of Goran Dragic, averaging 14 points and 4 assists on the season.

Prediction: Heat Over 109.5

This is more of a play against the dreadful Cavs defence. With playmakers like Dion Waiters and Dwyane Wade playing better of late, I think the Heat can pile on the points here. At 109.5, I still feel there’s some strong value on the over.

 

Bet now: Cavs vs Heat
Milwaukee Bucks vs Charlotte Hornets, 12:30 pm
Bucks -10.5

Milwaukee Bucks

The Bucks enter this one 34-12 off the back of 5 consecutive wins. Giannis was particularly solid against Dallas last time out, pouring in 35 points, 15 rebounds, and 5 assists. Center Brook Lopez had 16 points, 10 boards, and 5 blocks, whilst the backcourt duo of Eric Bledsoe and Malcolm Brogdon combined for an impressive 40 points.

Charlotte Hornets

The Hornets enter this one atop the Southeast at 23-24 after a solid win over Memphis last time out. Kemba Walker led the way with 22 points, 7 assists, and 4 steals in a rare road win. Guards Jeremy Lamb and Tony Parker both added 17 points of their own in solid complementary performances.

Prediction: Bucks -10.5

The Bucks have been one of the best ATS teams in the league this season and enter this one on 4 days rest. Charlotte have a relatively poor 7-16 road record and should be no match for Milwaukee here. Expect a vintage Giannis display en route to a comfortable win.

Bet now: Bucks vs Hornets
Utah Jazz vs Minnesota Timberwolves, 1 pm
1st Half Under 113

Utah Jazz

The Jazz continued their excellent recent form and now find themselves a solid 27-22. Donovan Mitchell was fantastic in a home win over Denver last time out, pouring in 35 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists. Rudy Gobert was also solid on the inside, managing 15 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 blocks, whilst also enjoying a +16.

Minnesota Timberwolves

The Timberwolves enter this one off the back of a late match in LA yesterday. Karl Anthony Towns has undoubtedly been the man all season, averaging an impressive 22.5 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 3 assists per game. Andrew Wiggins is providing solid counting stats at 17.5 points and 4.5 rebounds, but will definitely need to improve his efficiency.

Prediction: 1st Half Under 113

Whilst Utah are playing much better of late, offensive creation is still not their forte. With Minnesota coming into the altitude after a late game last night, you have to wonder how energised they’ll be. With 2 points of value given the full-game line, I’m confident in this first half under hitting.

Bet now: Jazz vs Timberwolves

Friday 25 January, 2019

Tim Hollis
Washington Wizards vs Golden State Warriors, 12 pm
Warriors -9

Washington Wizards

The Wizards have been much better of late, winning 4 of their last 5 games on this prolonged home stand. Bradley Beal has been phenomenal over this stretch, averaging 30 points, 7 assists, and 5.4 boards over his last 5. Trevor Ariza has also stepped things up, averaging 18.4 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 5 assists over that same period.

Golden State Warriors

Golden State enter this one off their 8th consecutive impressive win to take them to 33-14 and top of the Western Conference. Klay Thompson was absolutely on fire in that one, scoring 44 points on 17/20 shooting and making his first 10 3’s. Kevin Durant added yet another efficient display, dropping 20 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 blocks.

Prediction: Warriors -9

Whilst the Wizards will no doubt fight hard for this one, it’s tough to oppose Golden State on current form. They enjoy mismatches galore across the starting lineup. I expect a big night from Steph Curry in this one en route to a 9th straight win for the Warriors.

Bet now: Wizards vs Warriors
Oklahoma City Thunder vs New Orleans Pelicans, 12 pm
Pelicans +12

Oklahoma City Thunder

The Thunder enter this one at 29-18 after a solid home win over Portland last time out. Paul George again came up huge in this one, pouring in 36 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 steals. Russell Westbrook was also back to his best here, dropping another triple-double with 29 points, 14 assists and 10 rebounds.

New Orleans Pelicans

The Pelicans make the trip to Oklahoma off the back of a home game against Detroit yesterday. Unfortunately, they’ll be without star big man Anthony Davis, who is expected to miss at least another week. Star Point Guard Jrue Holiday has been the shining light for this team in Davis’ absence, averaging 20.8 points, 8.1 assists, and 4.7 rebounds.

Prediction: Pelicans +12

Even with Davis out, the Pelicans have given OKC considerable trouble in recent seasons. Holiday is an excellent matchup with Westbrook, whilst Randle and Mirotic should be able to score in the frontcourt. Getting 12 points here, I think New Orleans keep it competitive.

Bet now: Thunder vs Pelicans
Los Angeles Lakers vs Minnesota Timberwolves, 2:30 pm
1st Half Under 117.5

Los Angeles Lakers

The Lake Show enter this one at 25-23 after a horiffic home loss to Golden State last time out. LeBron James and Lonzo Ball remain out with injury, whilst Rajon Rondo looms as a game-time decision. Sophomore Forward Kyle Kuzma has carried the load of late, averaging 25 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 3 assists over his last 5.

Minnesota Timberwolves

The Timberwolves enter this one at 23-24 after consecutive wins over the Suns. Karl Anthony Towns was excellent last time out, pouring in 25 points, 18 rebounds, and 7 assists in a comfortable win. Derrick Rose has continued to be solid all season, averaging a shade under 19 points and 5 assists whilst shooting 42% from 3.

Prediction: 1st Half Under 117.5

With both Ball and James out for this one, I expect the Lakers to struggle for playmaking early. With a full game total of 229, we’re also getting 3 points of value with this first half line. Expect a slower-paced and ultimately lower scoring 1st half here.

Bet now: Lakers vs Timberwolves

Thursday 24 January, 2019

Tim Hollis
Indiana Pacers vs Toronto Raptors, 11 am
Pacers -2.5

Indiana Pacers

The Pacers enter this one at 31-15 after consecutive home wins over the Hornets and Mavericks. Victor Oladipo led the way with a solid outing that included 21 points, 7 assists, and 3 steals. Darren Collison added an impressive 19 points and 9 assists, whilst Myles Turner manned the interior with 16 rebounds and 3 blocked shots.

Toronto Raptors

The Raptors travel to Indiana off little rest after a home tilt against Sacramento yesterday. Kawhi Leonard continues to efficiently lead this team, averaging 27.6 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists per contest. Serge Ibaka and Pascal Siakam both continue to impress in the frontcourt, combining to average 31 points and 14 boards.

Prediction: Pacers -2.5

Off a back-to-back, the Raptors are likely to be without Kawhi and potentially Lowry in this one. Indiana is at home, well-rested, and looking for revenge after their recent loss to Toronto. Laying just 2.5, I have to back the home side here.

Bet now: Pacers vs Raptors
Boston Celtics vs Cleveland Cavaliers, 11:30 am
Celtics Over 114.5

Boston Celtics

The Celtics enter this one at 29-18 after 4 straight solid wins. Kyrie Irving has been in fantastic form of late, dropping 26 points, 10 assists, and 8 rebounds against Miami last time out. Al Horford has also significantly improved his form recently, putting up 16 points, 12 boards, and 3 blocks in that very same game.

Cleveland Cavaliers

The Cavs enter this one in absolute disarray, having lost 16 of their last 17 games. It’s honestly tough to think of a bright spot on this roster. Collin Sexton best qualifies for the role, averaging a solid 14.5 points, 3 boards, and 3 assists as a rookie. Aussie Matthew Dellavedova is also providing solid minutes as a backup Point Guard.

Prediction: Celtics Team Total Over 114.5

The Cavs defence is one of the worst on a possession basis in recent NBA history. They’ve been atrocious of late and I see Boston absolutely cooking them here. Expect a big day from Kyrie as he roasts his former side and leads the Celts to a high-scoring win.

 

Bet now: Celtics vs Cavaliers
Utah Jazz vs Denver Nuggets, 2:30 pm
Jazz -3

Utah Jazz

The Jazz enter this one at 26-22 after a disappointing loss to Portland last time out. This was despite another fantastic display from Donovan Mitchell, who dropped 36 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Whilst 5 other players scored in double figures, none could really get it going offensively as they shot just 39% from the field.

Denver Nuggets

The Nuggets travel to Utah at 31-14 after consecutive wins over the lowly Bulls and Cavs. Nikola Jokic has continued his fantastic start to the season, putting up an impressive triple-double last time out. Jamal Murray is also emerging as a strong starting Point Guard option, dropping 26 points and 5 assists in that same game.

Prediction: Jazz -3

The Nuggets have had some recent success against Utah, and I expect the Jazz to be motivated to exact revenge here. They’ve been playing much better of late and are now firmly in the West playoff picture. Expect a strong display from Rudy Gobert here as the Jazz get the home win and cover.

Bet now: Jazz vs Nuggets

Wednesday January 23, 2019

Tim Hollis
Toronto Raptors vs Sacramento Kings, 11 am
Raptors -10.5

Toronto Raptors

The Raptors enter this one an impressive 35-13 after wins in 7 of their last 8 games. Danny Green led the way against Memphis, pouring in a solid 24 points that included 8 made three pointers. Pascal Siakam also continued his very strong play this season, averaging a shade under 15 points and 10 boards over his last 5.

Sacramento Kings

The Kings enter this one just over .500 after a poor loss in Brooklyn yesterday. Bogdan Bogdanovic was one of the only bright spots, putting up 22 points, 11 assists, and 6 rebounds. Shooting Guard Buddy Hield has also raised his level of late, putting up over 23 a game during the month of January.

Prediction: Raptors

Whilst no official line has been set yet, I’m confident the Raptors take this one comfortably. The Kings are very reliant on transition and fatigue from back-to-backs doesn’t allow them to play their natural game. Expect a solid home win for Toronto here, whether Kawhi plays or not.

Bet now: Raptors vs Kings
Dallas Mavericks vs Los Angeles Clippers, 12:30 pm
Clippers +4.5

Dallas Mavericks

The Mavericks appear to be in disarray right now, losing each of their last 4 games to sit 20-26. Luka Doncic has still been their lone shining light, averaging an impressive 20 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per contest. Veteran wings Harrison Barnes and Wes Matthews are combining for a solid 31 a game, whilst DeAndre Jordan has been racking up double-doubles on the interior.

Los Angeles Clippers

The Clippers enter this one at 25-21 after a crucial road win over San Antonio last time out. Tobias Harris was the key man, putting up an excellent 27 points, 9 rebounds, and 9 assists. Patrick Beverley was also very solid in a complementary role, adding 18 points, 12 boards, and 5 assists of his own.

Prediction: Clippers +4.5

Off a back-to-back and a long road trip, I can see Dallas being fatigued for this one. They are still dealing with several injuries and the uncertain future of Dennis Smith. Getting 4.5 points, I think the Clippers have a real shot at an upset.

Bet now: Mavericks vs Clippers
Phoenix Suns vs Minnesota Timberwolves, 1 pm
Suns +6

Phoenix Suns

The Suns enter this one at 11-37 after a narrow loss on Monday to these very same Timberwolves. It was a solid team display from Phoenix in this one, with 6 players scoring in double figures. T.J. Warren had himself a cool 21 points, whilst Devin Booker had a well-rounded 18, 6, and 6.

Minnesota Timberwolves

The Timberwolves moved to 22-24 after their narrow win over the Suns last time out. Karl Anthony Towns was clearly their best player, going for 30 points, 12 rebounds, and 4 steals. Derrick Rose wasn’t too far behind, pouring in an efficient 31 points that included an ice-cold game winner.

Prediction: Suns +6

At this line, I think there’s some value on Phoenix here. After a heartbreaking loss to the same opponents last time out, it’s only natural that they’ll be very motivated here. Minnesota’s dismal 6-16 road record makes me think they’ll at least keep it close.

 

Bet now: Suns vs Timberwolves

Tuesday 22 January, 2019

Tim Hollis
Washington Wizards vs Detroit Pistons, 6 am
Pistons +4.5

Washington Wizards

The Wizards fly back to DC after a win over the Knicks in London last time out. Bradley Beal was again the star of the show, pouring in 26 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 4 assists. Otto Porter Junior also provided some much-needed scoring punch off the bench, adding 20 points and 11 rebounds.

Detroit Pistons

Detroit lost a heartbreaker at home to Sacramento last time out, putting them further behind in the East playoff race. This was despite another epic performance from Blake Griffin, who had 38 points and 6 rebounds. Luke Kennard was the only other bright spot on the roster, adding 19 points off the bench.

Prediction: Pistons +4.5

Whilst the potential absence of Drummond and Ish Smith is concerning, the Wizards haven’t shown an ability to cover numbers this high. They’ll likely be convinced coming off the London trip and have no-one to guard Blake Griffin. I expect Detroit to at least keep this one close.

Bet now: Wizards vs Pistons
Boston Celtics vs Miami Heat, 10 am
Celtics -7.5

Boston Celtics

The Celtics enter this one 28-18 off the back of 3 straight wins. Kyrie Irving continued his excellent play against Atlanta last time out, pouring in 32 points and 5 assists. Jayson Tatum has also delivered some strong play of late, averaging 17.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks over his last 5.

Miami Heat

The Heat enter this one with a .500 record after a road win in Chicago last time out. Josh Richardson continued to lead the way, pouring in 26 points on 10/15 shooting. Dion Waiters added 21 points and 6 assists, whilst D-Wade enjoyed his return to Chicago with 14 points, 10 boards, and 7 assists.

Prediction: Celtics -7.5

The Celtics suffered an embarrassing loss against the Heat on TNT in their last matchup. They’ve been playing a lot better of late and I expect them to get revenge for that here. Especially with their strong home defence, the Celts should be enough here laying 7.5.

Bet now: Celtics vs Heat
Golden State Warriors vs Los Angeles Lakers, 2:30 pm
Under 235 Points

Golden State Warriors

The Warriors enter this one having won 7 straight games to sit atop the West at 32-14. Steph Curry has been en fuego of late, averaging 35.2 points over his last 5 and shooting over 50% from 3. Kevin Durant has also been excellent in that stretch, adding 30 points and 15 boards against New Orleans on Thursday. DeMarcus Cousins enjoyed a solid return against the Clippers last time out, adding 14 points and 3 made 3-pointers.

Los Angeles Lakers

The Lake Show suffered a brutal overtime loss in Houston last time out. This was despite another solid display from Kyle Kuzma, who had 32 points and 8 boards. Brandon Ingram added another 21 points, whilst Center Ivica Zubac continued his strong recent play with 14 points and 7 boards.

Prediction: Under 235 points

With the return of DMC, Golden State will look to a more methodical attack. They played at a slower pace against the Clippers last time out, which I expect to continue here. At a high total of 235, I lean under.

Bet now: Warriors vs Lakers

Monday 21 January, 2019

Tim Hollis
Indiana Pacers vs Charlotte Hornets, 10 am
Pacers -7

Indiana Pacers

The Pacers enter this one at 30-15 after a resurgent win over Dallas yesterday. Tyreke Evans led the way in scoring, dropping 19 points off the bench on 7/11 shooting. Domantas Sabonis had a solid 16 points and 11 boards, whilst Victor Oladipo added a well-rounded 12 points, 8 boards, and 6 assists.

Charlotte Hornets

The Hornets move to 22-23 after a thumping 20-point home win over Phoenix yesterday. Kemba Walker led the way as per usual, putting up 21 points and 8 rebounds. Bismack Biyombo also stood up with an outstanding performance of 13 points, 11 boards, and 5 blocks. 8 Hornets scored in double figures in a comprehensive team display.

Prediction: Pacers -7

Whilst the Hornets have improved of late, they are a dismal 6-15 on the road. Indiana are an impressive 16-6 at home and will be looking for revenge after an earlier loss in Charlotte this season. Laying 7, I like the Pacers big in this one.

Bet now: Pacers vs Hornets
Minnesota Timberwolves vs Phoenix Suns, 11 am
Suns +11

Minnesota Timberwolves

The Wolves enter this one 21-24 after a disappointing home loss to San Antonio last time out. This was despite another solid display from KAT, who had 23 points and 6 rebounds. Taj Gibson had a double-double, whilst Derrick Rose continued his solid campaign with 23 points and 6 dimes off the bench.

Phoenix Suns

Phoenix enter this one at 11-36 and clearly worst in the West after a horiffic loss in Charlotte last night. Devin Booker continues to be the shining light for this team, pouring in 32 points and 11 assists. Kelly Oubre also added 24 points on 9/15 shooting on a night where no-one else stood up.

Prediction: Suns +11

If Phoenix has any pride, a loss like last night’s is one that should motivate them to play harder here. Minnesota has a history of playing down to their opponents and this one could be closer than they’d hope. Getting 11, I have to lean Phoenix here.

Bet now: Timberwolves vs Suns
San Antonio Spurs vs Los Angeles Clippers, 12 pm
Spurs -6

San Antonio Spurs

The Spurs sit at an impressive 27-20 and appear to be well favoured for a Western Conference playoff spot. LaMarcus Aldridge has been excellent of late, averaging 26.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2 blocks over his last 5. Rudy Gay’s return has also been a huge positive, with the swingman putting up 22 points and 5 assists last time out.

Los Angeles Clippers

The Clippers appear to be reeling and find themselves out of the playoff mix after losing 5 straight. Tobias Harris was a bright light against Golden State last time out, putting up 28 points and 9 rebounds. Rookie Guard Shai Gilgeous Alexander also shone, contributing 24 points, 5 assists, and 3 steals of his own.

Prediction: Spurs -6

The Clippers struggled big time against Golden State with injuries to Lou Williams and Danilo Gallinari. These are two of their better players who they struggle big time to replace. With both of them unlikely to play here, San Antonio look the play laying 6 points.

Bet now: Spurs vs Clippers

Sunday 20 January, 2019

Tim Hollis
Indiana Pacers vs Dallas Mavericks, 11 am
Pacers -6.5

Indiana Pacers

The Pacers enter this one at 29-15 after a crushing loss against the Sixers last time out. Thaddeus Young was the lone bright spot for Indiana, pouring in an efficient 27 points and 6 rebounds. Despite his struggles of late, Victor Oladipo is still averaging a very respectable 19.3 points, 5.2 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per contest.

Dallas Mavericks

Dallas enters this one at 20-24 after consecutive home losses to Golden State and San Antonio. Luka Doncic continues to be the standout player for the Mavs, putting up 25 points, 8 boards, and 8 assists last time out. Harrison Barnes has been solid as a support player, averaging 18 points and 4 rebounds on 40% shooting from 3 this season.

Prediction: Pacers -6.5

With J.J. Barea out and Dennis Smith in exile, the Mavs are very thin at the Point Guard position. After an embarrassing loss on national tv on Friday, I also expect the Pacers to come out motivated for this one. Combine these two factors and I’m confident they cover this 6.5-point line.

Bet now: Pacers vs Mavericks
Chicago Bulls vs Miami Heat, 12 pm
Heat -2

Chicago Bulls

The Bulls have lost each of their last 9 contests and enter this one after a thumping at the hands of Denver last time out. Sophomore Power Forward Lauri Markannen was the sole bright spot, putting up an efficient 27 points and 10 boards. News that Wendell Carter is out for 2-3 months will only hurt an already weak Chicago interior.

Miami Heat

The Heat make the trip to Chicago off the back of a close loss last night in Detroit. Dwyane Wade continues to put up strong numbers off the bench, dropping 20 points and 8 assists on 10/14 shooting. Justise Winslow is also delivering much improved performances of late, averaging 17 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 5.2 assists over his last 5.

Prediction: Heat -2

Whilst the Heat are on a back-to-back, Chicago also have to endure a gruelling cross-country flight after their terrible road trip. Miami enjoy a strong advantage on the interior here, especially with Carter out. Expect a solid homecoming for D-Wade as the heat get the road win and cover.

Bet now: Bulls vs Heat
Houston Rockets vs Los Angeles Lakers, 12:30 pm
Over 225.5

Houston Rockets

The Rockets enter this one off a disappointing overtime loss against Brooklyn last time out. James Harden can’t be blamed for this one, putting up 58 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists. P.J. Tucker also stepped up big time, with 20 points and 10 boards of his own. Injuries to Chris Paul, Clint Capela, and Eric Gordon have really been felt by this Houston side.

Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers enter this one 25-21 after a huge win over the Thunder on Friday. Kyle Kuzma again came up big time, dropping 32 points to go with his 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Ivica Zubac was also huge off the bench, adding 26 points and 12 rebounds on 8/14 shooting. He could have a huge role in this one with Capela out.

Prediction: Over 225.5

Whilst I lean towards the Lakers here, I ultimately think that the over is the better play. The Lakers won’t be able to ably defend Harden on the perimeter and I expect both teams to feast inside. Expect a similar game to the Lakers against OKC in a high-scoring affair here.

Bet now: Rockets vs Lakers