Miami Heat

The Heat enter this one a middling 19-19 after a disappointing road loss to Atlanta last time out. In an injury-riddled backcourt, Shooting Guard Josh Richardson has stepped up this season to average an impressive 18.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per contest. Dwyane Wade has shown he as at least something in the tank by putting up 14 a game, whilst Hassan Whiteside is averaging a solid 12.8 points and 12.7 boards.

Denver Nuggets

The Nuggets enter this one an impressive 26-12 despite a disappointing loss in Houston last night. Nikola Jokic had a solid day despite the loss, putting up 24 points, 13 rebounds, and 4 assists. Reserve Point Guard Monte Morris also added a solid 21 off the bench. With Gary Harris and Paul Millsap both now fully fit, Denver will be hoping for better from them here.

Prediction: Nuggets +1.5

Despite a poor loss last night, the Nuggets have largely been very good this season. Rarely have they put together consecutive poor performances and I can’t see it happening here. Especially getting the points, I’m taking Denver on the road.

Oklahoma City Thunder

OKC enter this one a solid 25-14 despite a surprising loss at home to Washington last time out. Small Forward Paul George has continued to enjoy an excellent campaign, averaging an efficient 26.8 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists per contest. Despite some shooting inefficiencies, Russell Westbrook is still putting up strong numbers, averaging a triple-double to date.

Minnesota Timberwolves

The Timberwolves make the trip to Oklahoma at 19-21, surprisingly firing Coach Tom Thibodeau after a big win over the Lakers last time out. Karl Anthony Towns was excellent in this one, dropping 28 points, 18 rebounds, and 4 blocks. Even Andrew Wiggins had a solid outing, pouring in 28 points and 5 boards of his own.

Prediction: Thunder -7.5

OKC have been very good this season and I expect them to rebound after Monday’s inexplicable loss. No Robert Covington means they’ll struggle to guard Paul George, whilst Steven Adams can contain KAT on the interior. Expect a comfortable OKC win here.

Los Angeles Clippers

The Clippers enter this one a solid 23-16 after a home win over Orlando last time out. Small Forward Tobias Harris led the way in this one, pouring in an efficient 28 points and 9 rebounds. Lou Williams also continued his solid campaign off the bench, adding in a quick-fire 17 points of his own.

Charlotte Hornets

The Hornets make the trip to LA at 19-20, after a narrow win over Phoenix last time out. Kemba Walker again led the way, dropping a team-high 29 points en route to victory. Tony Parker and Willie Hernangomez both also had excellent displays off the bench, going for 20 and 19 points respectively.

Prediction: Clippers -6.5

The Hornets have struggled somewhat of late with a thinner than usual rotation and I think it’ll be tough going for them here. The Clippers are a respectable 13-6 at home this season and their talent advantage should prove too much here.

Four very sizeable favourites and four very good teams in today’s daily multi. The Warriors and Clippers are both potential additions if you want to beef up the price. This is especially good value considering the Neds 4+ leg multi promotion where you can get a bonus bet if one of your legs loses.

Detroit Pistons

The Pistons enter this one at a relatively middling 17-20 after losing 4 of their last 5 games. Blake Griffin has still been turning in admirable performances, pouring in 34 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists in a loss to Utah last time out. He continues to get excellent interior support from Andre Drummond, who had 15 points, 18 rebounds, and 3 steals of his own.

San Antonio Spurs

The Spurs enter this one as the form team in the NBA, winning 5 of their last 6 to sit 23-17. Shooting Guard DeMar DeRozan has been excellent of late, enjoying a triple-double on Friday against his old Raptors teammates. LaMarcus Aldridge also continues to provide a steady presence on the interior, dropping 18 points and 7 assists against Memphis last time out.

Prediction: Pistons +4

I’m buying low with Detroit and selling high with San Antonio in this one. Despite their recent run of form, the Spurs are still a pedestrian 6-12 on the road this season. Expect a solid day from Griffin and Drummond as the Pistons at least keep this close.

Boston Celtics

The Celtics enter this one at an improving 23-15 after winning 5 of their last 7 games. Jaylen Brown had a solid performance in a rare start last time out, pouring in 21 points on 9/15 shooting against Dallas. Gordon Hayward also continued his improved form of late, adding 16 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists off the bench.

Brooklyn Nets

The Nets make the trip to Boston off the back of a very convincing win in Chicago last night. Point Guard D’Angelo Russell led the way, dropping an efficient 28 points and 5 assists. Jarrett Allen added 19 points, whilst DeMarre Carroll and Shabazz Napier had 20 and 18 respectively off the bench in what was very much a team effort.

Prediction: Nets +10

Although Kyrie is likely back for this one, the Celtics have had trouble with pesky opponents like the Nets this season. I’m not sure how motivated they’ll be here and whilst I expect them to win, I also Brooklyn to cover a relatively high line of 10 points.

Sacramento Kings

The Kings enter this one off the back of 5 losses in their last 6 to sit 19-20. Buddy Hield delivered a solid display in the loss to Golden State last time out, dropping 32 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists. Bogdan Bogdanovic added 17 points and 7 assists in a rare start, whilst Forward Justin Jackson added a career-high 28 points off the bench.

Orlando Magic

Orlando make the trip to Sacramento off the back of a disappointing loss against the Clippers yesterday. This was despite a monster display from Center Nikola Vucevic, who dropped an epic 16 points, 24 rebounds, and 8 assists. Aaron Gordon also added an inefficient 17 points, but Orlando struggled all night to generate reliable offence.

Prediction: Magic +5.5

When these two sides faced earlier in the year, this line was exactly reversed. Despite their poor recent form, this makes me think there’s some value in Orlando here. I can’t trust Sacramento laying 5.5 and expect the Magic to remain competitive in this one.

A relatively simple equation for today’s daily multi. 3 home teams with playoff aspirations and the clear talent advantage. $1.81 looks a very appealing price.

Minnesota Timberwolves

The Timberwolves enter this one at 18-21 after a convincing win over Orlando last time out. Center Karl Anthony Towns led the way with a very solid 29 points and 15 rebounds in the victory. Jeff Teague also had an efficient night in his return from injury, going for 23 points and 10 assists on 8/10 shooting.

Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers have struggled immensely of late, losing 4 of their last 5 without LeBron James to find themselves 18-21. Brandon Ingram has been carrying the load in LeBron’s absence, dropping 21 points and 9 rebounds in a loss to New York last time out. JaVale McGee has also looked solid in his return from injury, going for 18 points and 9 boards in the same game.

Prediction: Lakers +6.5

With the Lakers run of poor form, I believe they’re undervalued here. Injuries to Covington and Rose also have the Timberwolves somewhat depleted. Getting 6.5 points, I think the Lakers at least keep this one close.

Oklahoma City Thunder

The Thunder enter this one at 25-13 after an epic road win over Portland last time out. Paul George was again spectacular, pouring in an efficient 37 points and 8 rebounds. Russell Westbrook also had a much more efficient night, going for 31 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists in this one.

Washington Wizards

The Wizards have been in disarray of late and look in real danger of missing the playoffs at 15-24. Bradley Beal has carried the load in John Wall’s absence, putting up 33 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists last time out. Trevor Ariza has also been solid in a complementary role, adding 21 points and 6 assists of his own.

Prediction: Under 225.5

With the Wizards offence so reliant on Beal, I believe OKC’s very solid defence can shut him down here. There aren’t any other strong shot creators on Washington, so I lean heavily to the under here.

Toronto Raptors

The Raptors enter this one at 29-12 after a very solid road win in Milwaukee last night. Kawhi Leonard again led the way, dropping 30 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists. Pascal Siakam also had 30 points on 11/15 shooting, whilst big man Serge Ibaka had a well-rounded 25 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists.

Indiana Pacers

The Pacers make the trip to Toronto at a very respectable 26-12 after a win in Chicago last time out. Victor Oladipo led the way, pouring in 36 points and 7 rebounds, including an epic game-winner. Domantas Sabonis also continued his excellent run off the bench, adding 23 points and 12 rebounds on 9/13 shooting.

Prediction: Pacers +4

With Toronto playing such a key game last night, I’ll wonder if they have the energy here, especially without Kyle Lowry. Indiana enters this one in excellent form and off a rest advantage, making me really fancy them plus 4 points.

Both the Clippers and Thunder look fairly solid to win at home against lesser opponents. Given their recent run of form, I’d also expect Miami to comfortably win in Atlanta. At $2.21, this appears a very strong bet.

Detroit Pistons

The Pistons enter this one at 17-19 after a solid road win over Memphis last time out. Power Forward Blake Griffin led Detroit with a very impressive stat line of 26 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists. Andre Drummond added a solid double-double and contained Marc Gasol on the interior. Reggie Jackson also had one of his better games, dropping 16 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists.

Utah Jazz

Utah enter this one at 19-20 after a convincing win in Cleveland last night. 8 players scored in double figures in what was very much a strong team display. Donovan Mitchell appears to be rounding into form of late, shooting significantly better from the field over his last 5 games. Rudy Gobert has continued his case for defensive player of the year with some excellent recent block numbers.

Prediction: Jazz -1

In their first game back from a long road trip, Detroit will likely be fatigued for this one. Gobert and Favors have the size and strength to match up with the Pistons frontcourt, limiting their biggest weakness. Expect a big day from Donovan Mitchell en route to a Jazz win.

Cleveland Cavaliers

The Cavs enjoy the worst record in the NBA this season, having managed a pitiful 8 wins all year. They come off a horrific home loss against the Jazz last night where they allowed 8 double-digit scorers. Bench performances of Alec Burks and Jordan Clarkson were the only highlights, the two reserves combining for a quick-fire 29 points.

New Orleans Pelicans

The Pelicans make the trip to Cleveland at 17-22 after a road loss in Brooklyn last time out. This was despite a monumental performance from Anthony Davis, who had 34 points, 26 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 blocks in defeat. Julius Randle, Elfrid Payton, and Jrue Holiday all scored 20 or more, indicating that the Pelicans defence appears to be the main problem.

Prediction: Pelicans -6

Cleveland just doesn’t have the size to match up with Davis and Randle on the interior. The return of Elfrid Payton also gives New Orleans more solid backcourt depth. Laying only 6, New Orleans look the goods to me here.

Sacramento Kings

The Kings enter this one at 19-19 after a recent trio of losses. Shooting Guard Buddy Hield continued his strong start to the campaign against Denver last time out, pouring in an efficient 29 points on 12/19 shooting. De’Aaron Fox also had a solid outing with 16 points and 8 assists, whilst Nemanja Bjelica added 17 of his own as the stretch 4 option.

Golden State Warriors

Golden State enter this one off the back of a dreadful home loss to Houston where they literally gave the game away at the end. This was despite another very strong night from Point Guard Stephen Curry, who had 35 points and 6 assists. Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson both had solid scoring nights in the loss, each going for 26 points.

Prediction: Over 238

Golden State has been playing at a riveting pace of late and Sacramento never stopped doing so. The two of these sides love to go up and down the floor, which should lead to a ton of possessions in this one. The total is 5-10 points too low for me, making me very comfortable on the over.

With another full slate to choose from, the daily multi keeps going on today’s card. Pretty simple formula today; betting on each of these sides that are favoured by 6 or more points. With the current Neds promotion, you can also receive a bonus bet if one of your leg loses.

Chicago Bulls

The Bulls enter this one off the back of a horrific home loss against Orlando on Thursday. Their defence was atrocious in this one, allowing the Magic to shoot 58% from the field and 43% from 3. In another lacklustre offensive night, LaVine and Markannen stood out with 16 and 14 points respectively. Things don’t get any easier here as a hungry Indiana side comes to town.

Indiana Pacers

The Pacers enter this one at 25-12 off the back of 5 straight impressive victories. Victor Oladipo led the way against Atlanta last time out, pouring in 22 points, 7 assists, and 4 rebounds. Center duo Myles Turner and Domantas Sabonis continued their very strong play of late, putting up 20 points apiece. They’ll look to make it 6 straight against a struggling Bulls side here.

Prediction: Pacers -6

I’ve had success fading Chicago lately and I’m going to continue doing so here. I just don’t think this line reflects the very significant talent edge Indiana has here. Expect a big night from Oladipo en route to a cruisy victory.

Phoenix Suns

The Suns enter this one a horrific 9-30 after suffering 4 straight home losses. Devin Booker has still been performing admirably of late, pouring in 37 points and 8 assists against Philly last time out. Rookie Center DeAndre Ayton continues to show promise, dropping 18 points and 11 rebounds in that same game.

Los Angeles Clippers

The Clippers make the trip to Phoenix at 21-16 after consecutive losses to the Spurs and 76ers. This loss to Philadelphia was despite a well-rounded offensive display that saw 4 players score 20 or more points. Lou Williams and Montrezl Harrell have continued to form an excellent partnership off the bench, whilst starting Forwards Tobias Harris and Danilo Gallinari continue to perform admirably.

Prediction: Clippers -4

The Suns have been in horrendous form lately and it’s tough to see them getting out of this slump against an improving Clippers side. I expect a particularly strong day from LA’s bench en route to a comfortable road win.

Portland Trail Blazers

The Blazers enter this one at 22-16 off the back of an impressive road win over Sacramento last time out. Point Guard Damian Lillard had a solid offensive display, going for 25 points, 6 assists, and 6 rebounds. I’d be remiss not to mention the excellent play of Center Jusuf Nurkic, who had a whopping 24 points, 23 rebounds, 7 assists, 5 steals, and 5 blocks.

Oklahoma City Thunder

OKC enter this one at 24-13 off the back of a crucial road win over the Lakers last time out. Paul George stole the show in this one, pouring in an efficient 37 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 steals per game. Despite going 3/20 from the field, Russell Westbrook poured in another triple-double, stunting on Lance Stephenson with an air guitar solo in the process.

Prediction: Blazers -0.5

A lot was made last season about how well Portland matched up with OKC, sweeping them in the 4-game season series. I think the same holds true this year, where Portland have been an impressive 14-6 at home. Laying just half a point, I expect a convincing display from Dame en route to victory.

Finally having a full slate to choose from, the daily multi makes it’s return. Each of these sides enjoys a huge talent advantage over 4 of the worst opponents in the NBA. With the current Neds promotion, you can also receive a bonus bet if one of your leg loses. At $2.55, the value with this is too strong to pass up.

San Antonio Spurs

The Spurs enter this one at an improving 21-17 after a convincing home win over Boston last time out. Power Forward LaMarcus Aldridge was excellent in this one, pouring in an impressive 32 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists. Point Guard Derrick White added a crucial 22 points on 8/9 shooting, whilst DeMar DeRozan was just 3 rebounds shy of a triple-double.

Toronto Raptors

The Raptors enter this one at a league-best 28-11 after a strong win over Utah last time out. Kawhi Leonard truly bullied Joe Ingles here, pouring in an efficient 45 points and 6 rebounds on 16/22 shooting. Power Forward Pascal Siakam also had another very solid day, adding 28 points and 10 boards of his own. Point Guard Kyle Lowry is currently listed as doubtful for this clash.

Prediction: Spurs -2

With the late news of Kyle Lowry remaining out and the Spurs excellent home form of late, the value is on the Spurs here laying just 2 points. Expect a big night from DeMar DeRozan in a home win and cover.

Sacramento Kings

The Kings enter this one at 19-18 after a late blown lead cost them against Portland last time out. This was despite a well-rounded stat line from Shooting Guard Buddy Hield, who had 27 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists. Power Forward Nemanja Bjelica had 14 points and 16 boards, whilst 6^th man Bogdan Bogdanovic added a quick-fire 15 of his own.

Denver Nuggets

The Nuggets enjoyed the return of Paul Millsap and Gary Harris last time out, moving to a West-leading 24-11 with a win over New York. Nikola Jokic had a truly insane triple-double, dropping 19 points, 14 rebounds, and 15 assists. Former Brisbane Bullets legend Torrey Craig continued his solid run in the starting lineup, adding 13 points of his own.

Prediction: Kings +4

Trying to integrate both Harris and Millsap back in the rotation, I think there will be an adjustment period for Denver. Their road record hasn’t been all that flash this season, going just 9-8. I also think Sacramento will be very motivated for this one after their overtime loss against Portland. Getting 3.5 at home, give me Sac Town here.

Golden State Warriors

The Warriors enter this one at 25-13 off the back of consecutive wins against Portland and Phoenix. Point Guard Stephen Curry was excellent last time out, pouring in an efficient 34 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists. Kevin Durant added his usual efficient 25 points, whilst both Jordan Bell and Shaun Livingston scored in double figures off the bench.

Houston Rockets

Houston really seem to have turned the corner of late and enter this one at 21-15 after a solid home win over Memphis. James Harden had another epic performance in this one, dropping 43 points, 13 assists, and 10 rebounds. Clint Capela continued to play the Robin to Harden’s batman, adding 19 points and 13 boards of his own. Gerald Green also played a key role, draining 6 3’s off the bench.

Prediction: Warriors -8

With injuries to both Chris Paul and Eric Gordon, I just don’t think Houston’s backcourt depth can hold up here. Golden State have several strong perimeter defenders that can contain Harden. They’ll want revenge for their huge loss in Houston earlier this year and I don’t think the Rockets role players can thrive in a tough Oracle environment. Warriors by double digits here.

Charlotte Hornets

The Hornets enter this one with a relatively middling 18-18 record after thumping Orlando last time out. Point Guard Kemba Walker was excellent in this one, pouring in an efficient 24 points and 7 assists. Malik Monk continued his strong season off the bench, adding 21 points to his own. Unfortunately for Charlotte, both Cody Zeller and Jeremy Lamb picked up injuries and will likely be out for this clash.

Dallas Mavericks

Dallas enters this one at a middling 17-19 of their own, off the back of a truly dreadful 2-16 road record this season. Rookie Luka Doncic continues to look like a future star, averaging a very impressive 19.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. Small Forward Harrison Barnes has also had a resurgent season this year, averaging an efficient 18.6 points and 4.3 rebounds each night.

Prediction: Mavericks +3

With both Zeller and Lamb expected to miss this one, I’m not sure the Hornets thin rotation will be able to cope. Whilst Dallas have struggled mightily on the road this year, they are playing much better of late with Doncic as the primary ball handler. Getting 3 points, I think they’ve got every shot of taking this outright.

Brooklyn Nets

The Nets have had a strong uptick in form of late and find themselves well in the East playoff mix at 17-21. In D’Angelo Russell and Spencer Dinwiddie, Brooklyn has two very capable offensive Point Guards who have combined to average over 35 points per game. Sophomore big man Jarrett Allen continues to also provide a solid presence on the interior, averaging an impressive 11.6 points and 8.1 rebounds per contest.

New Orleans Pelicans

The Pelicans also enter this one at 17-21, nowhere near good enough for a playoff spot in the West. Julius Randle was excellent in the win over Minnesota last time out, dropping an efficient 33 points and 11 rebounds. Jrue Holiday also picked up the slack in Anthony Davis’ absence, pouring in 26 points and 8 assists of his own to secure the win.

Prediction: Nets +1

With Nikola Mirotic out and Anthony Davis not 100%, the Pelicans usually strong frontcourt appears somewhat fragile here. Especially with their dreadful 4-15 road record this year, I’m not sure they can overcome the surging Nets. Expect a big day from Dinwiddie en route to a Nets home upset win.

Chicago Bulls

The Bulls enter this one at 10-27 after a 6-point loss to the Raptors last time out. Power Forward Lauri Markannen was very solid in this one, putting up 18 points and 10 rebounds, including 4 made 3-pointers. Rookie Center Wendell Carter forms the other half of the Bulls impressive young frontcourt, adding an efficient 16 points and 11 rebounds of his own.

Orlando Magic

The Magic make the trip to Chicago at 16-20 after a dreadful loss in Charlotte last time out. This was despite a well-rounded display from Power Forward Aaron Gordon, who had 14 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists in defeat. Center Nikola Vucevic continues to look like a potential All-Star this season, averaging an efficient 20 points and 12 rebounds per night.

Prediction: Magic +1

Despite a slight uptick in form from Chicago, I really don’t see why they’re favourites here. I expect the frontcourt shooting of Vucevic to cause a ton of problems for their already struggling defence. Orlando are the more experienced team and still believe they have a shot at the playoffs, so I expect them to take care of business on the road here.

Toronto Raptors

The Raptors enter this one with the NBA’s best record at 27-11, including a very impressive 14-4 at home. Kawhi Leonard continues to enjoy an excellent campaign, averaging an efficient 26.7 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3 assists per night. Serge Ibaka and Pascal Siakam have also forged a very solid frontcourt, averaging a combined 30 points and 14 rebounds in addition to their defensive value.

Utah Jazz

Utah enter this one at a middling 18-19 after a relatively disappointing start to the season. This is despite the strong play of Center Rudy Gobert, who is averaging 15 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game. Whilst not as efficient as last season, Donovan Mitchell is still putting up very solid counting stats, averaging 20 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game.

Prediction: Over 209

With the total dropping 3.5 points from the opener, I believe there’s actually some value on the over here. Despite Kyle Lowry being out for Toronto, they have more than enough playmakers to still put up points. Expect a big night from Kawhi en route to a high-scoring Raptors win.

Sacramento Kings

The Kings have surprised most NBA fans with their play this season, racing out to a 19-17 record. De’Aaron Fox was excellent in a loss to the Lakers last time out, pouring in 26 points, 7 assists, and 4 rebounds. 6^th Man Bogdan Bogdanovic continued his very solid play off the bench, adding in 21 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists of his own.

Portland Trailblazers

The Trailblazers recovered nicely from a loss to Golden State on Sunday, blowing out Philadelphia last time out to enter this one at 21-16. Shooting Guard C.J. McCollum was excellent in this one, dropping an efficient 35 points on 13/18 shooting. I’d be remiss not to mention the stellar season that Damian Lillard is having, enjoying averages of 26.8 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.7 boards per game.

Prediction: Trail Blazers -1

I think Portland enjoys a matchup advantage in the backcourt in this one. Sacramento rely so much on their backcourt for offence, however I expect them to be tired from guarding Lillard and McCollum all game. Laying only 1 point on the road, I’m comfortable backing Dame and Co here.

Los Angeles Clippers

The Clippers have had a largely solid campaign this season and currently sport a record of 21-15. Montrezl Harrell delivered another excellent display off the bench in Sunday’s loss to San Antonio, dropping an efficient 21 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 steals. I’d be remiss not to mention the strong partnership formed by Forwards Danilo Gallinari and Tobias Harris, who have combined to average 40.6 points and 14.5 boards per night.

Philadelphia 76ers

The 76ers enter this one off the back of a dreadful loss in Portland last time out, without star big man Joel Embiid. Jimmy Butler will want to bounce back from a horiffic performance where he totalled just 5 points on 2/12 shooting. Amid potential trade rumours, Aussie Ben Simmons could also use a big performance that shows he can effectively run this Sixers side.

Prediction: Clippers -2

With Joel Embiid likely out here, I just don’t think Philly match up all that well with the Clippers. Couple that with the fact they’ve just spent New Year’s Eve in Los Angeles and you wonder how motivated they’ll be here. Laying only 3, I’m going to role with the Clip Show again.

Houston Rockets

The Rockets appear to have turned their season around, winning 9 of their last 10 games to sit 20-15. James Harden has carried this team in Chris Paul’s absence, averaging 33 points, 8.2 assists, and 5.7 boards per game this season. Center Clint Capela has provided very solid support on the interior, averaging 17 points and 12.5 boards of his own.

Memphis Grizzlies

The Grizzlies have dipped noticeably of late, winning just 2 of their last 8 games to sit 18-17. Point Guard Mike Conley is still enjoying a very solid campaign, averaging an impressive 20.5 points and 6.5 assists per contest. Rookie big man Jaren Jackson Junior has also shown flashes, averaging 13.2 points and 4.7 boards as he contends for Rookie of the Year.

Prediction: Grizzlies +5.5

With the recent form of these two sides, I believe the line value is on the Grizzlies here. The loss of Eric Gordon is a big one for Houston, who become even thinner in the backcourt. Through the key number of 5, I’m very happy to fade the public and take Memphis here.

San Antonio Spurs

The Spurs have been very strong of late, winning 7 of their last 8 home games to improve to 20-17 on the year. Shooting Guard DeMar DeRozan has been the main man for this Spurs side, averaging 23 points, 6.2 assists, and 5.8 rebounds on the campaign. Big man LaMarcus Aldridge has also improved his play of late, averaging 19.5 points and 9 boards to provide San Antonio with a solid interior presence.

Boston Celtics

The Celtics have rebounded nicely from a few slumps this season, winning 3 of their last 4 to sit 21-14. Kyrie Irving was excellent in the win over Memphis last time out, pouring in 26 points and 13 assists to get the job done. Marcus Morris also continued his improved play of late, adding an efficient 22 points and 4 boards in his complementary role.

Prediction: Spurs -1

Boston have struggled mightily in San Antonio of late, a trend which I expect to continue here. The Spurs have been playing some of the best basketball in the league of late, winning 7 of their last 8 home games. Expect a big night from DeRozan to power San Antonio to victory.

Phoenix Suns

After a recent 4-game winning streak, the Suns have lost 4 of their last 5 to find themselves 9-28. Shooting Guard Devin Booker has been the star man for Phoenix all year, averaging 25.3 points, 7.2 assists, and 4 rebounds per game. Rookie big man DeAndre Ayton also continues to put up very solid numbers, averaging 16.8 points and 10.9 boards of his own.

Golden State Warriors

The Warriors enter this one after an impressive road win over Portland that brings them to 24-13 on the year. Klay Thompson finally found form in that one, pouring in an efficient 32 points. Stephen Curry had a well-rounded night of his own with 25 points, 8 assists, and 5 boards, whilst Kevin Durant added his trademark 25 to round out the big 3.

Prediction: Suns +11

After an emotional win in Portland, I’m not sure how motivated the Warriors will be for this one. Especially on the American New Year’s Eve, I think they’ll be more focused on their party for the evening than playing the lowly Suns. Getting 11 points at home, I think there’s some value on Phoenix here.

Orlando Magic

The Magic enter this one at 15-19 after a thumping win over the Raptors last time out. Center Nik Vucevic was phenomenal in this one, dropping 30 points, 20 rebounds, and 8 assists. Point Guard D.J. Augustin continued his performances of late, adding in 17 points and 6 assists of his own.

Detroit Pistons

The Pistons enter this one at a middling 16-17 after getting thumped by the Pacers last time out. Power Forward Blake Griffin continues to lead the way for this side, averaging 25 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists each night. Andre Drummond is providing solid support on the interior, averaging 17.5 points and 15.3 boards of his own.

Prediction: Magic -2

Given Detroit’s struggles on the road this season, I’m comfortable backing Orlando laying just 2 points. The threat of Vucevic should force Drummond out of the paint, whilst I think the duo of Gordon and Isaac can contain Blake Griffin.

Miami Heat

The Heat have been on a very impressive run of late, winning 6 of their last 7 to find themselves 17-17. Justise Winslow was excellent against Cleveland last time out, dropping 24 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists. Shooting Guard Josh Richardson is also having a career year, averaging 18.5 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists per night.

Minnesota Timberwolves

The Timberwolves have fallen back to Earth lately, and currently find themselves at 16-19. Karl Anthony Towns is still having a very solid campaign, averaging 21 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists. Derrick Rose has been hearing MVP chants of late, continuing his solid averages of 19 points and 5 assists per game.

Prediction: Heat -3.5

I think the market hasn’t yet caught up to how well Miami has been playing of late. Minnesota also has one of the worst road records in the association, a measly 4-13. Laying just 3.5, I’m confident the Heat can pull off another home win.

Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers enter this one at 20-16 after consecutive losses in the absence of LeBron. Kyle Kuzma had another solid display in the loss to the Clippers, dropping 24 points, 5 assists, and 8 rebounds. Lonzo Ball also had one of the best displays of his career in Friday’s loss to the Kings, pouring in 20 points, 12 assists and 9 rebounds.

Sacramento Kings

The Kings enter this one at 19-16 after a Bogdan Bogdanovic buzzer-beater secured the win over the Lakers last time out. De’Aaron Fox delivered his trademark strong display against Lonzo Ball, going for 15 points, 12 assists, and 9 rebounds. Center Willie Cauley-Stein had a strong night of his own, adding 19 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists.

Prediction: 1^st Half Under 118.5

With a full game total of 231.5, we’re getting 3 points of value with this line. In Lebron’s absence, the Lakers just don’t have the offensive firepower to continue with these high totals. I expect a slower paced one here as this sails under.