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Atlanta Hawks at New Orleans Pelicans odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Atlanta Hawks at New Orleans Pelicans odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Atlanta Hawks (2-1) travel to face the New Orleans Pelicans (1-3) Wednesday at Smoothie King Center at 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Hawks vs. Pelicans odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Hawks rebounded from a 101-95 loss at the Cleveland Cavaliers Saturday to blast the Detroit Pistons by a 122-104 count Monday. Still, Atlanta’s only road game netted just 95 points and an outright loss as an 8-point favorite.

The Pelicans picked up their first victory of the season Monday at the Minnesota Timberwolves 107-98, winning outright as 5.5-point underdogs. New Orleans has covered in two straight with the Under going 3-1 in four games overall.

Hawks at Pelicans odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:43 a.m. ET.

Money line: Hawks -260 (bet $260 to win $100) | Pelicans +205 (bet $100 to win $205)
Against the spread (ATS): Hawks -6.5 (-105) | Pelicans +6.5 (-120)
Over/Under (O/U): 219.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Hawks at Pelicans key injuries

Hawks

SF Danilo Gallinari (shoulder) questionable
PF De’Andre Hunter (illness) probable
SG Lou Williams (ankle) questionable

Pelicans

SG Josh Hart (quadriceps) questionable
PF Zion Williamson (foot) out

Hawks at Pelicans odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Hawks 110, Pelicans 99

Money line

The Hawks (-260) will cost you more than two and a half times your potential return. While I expect them to win, and win handily, that’s risky business on a road team, especially one which laid an egg in its only previous road outing.

AVOID and look to the spread instead.

Against the spread

The HAWKS -6.5 (-105) are the play. Atlanta stumbled in Cleveland, but it’s facing a team missing its biggest star in Williamson. The Pelicans are also struggling to put points on the board during the early going, registering just 101.3 points per game to rank 26th in the NBA.

Look for the Hawks to run away with a double-digit win.

Over/Under

The UNDER 219.5 (-110) is the best play on the board. The Hawks are playing solid defense and they’ll clamp down on the Pellies and keep them from hitting triple digits.

The Under is 8-3 in Atlanta’s past 11 road outings dating back to last season, including its only road outing this season. The Under is 6-0 in NOLA’s past six at home, also dating back to last season, while going 4-0 in the past four against teams with a winning overall mark.

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Los Angeles Lakers at San Antonio Spurs odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Tuesday’s Los Angeles Lakers at San Antonio Spurs odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Los Angeles Lakers (1-2) visit the “Alamo City” for an 8:30 p.m. ET tip-off against the San Antonio Spurs (1-2) at AT&T Center. Below, we look at the Lakers vs. Spurs odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

L.A. eked past the Memphis Grizzlies Sunday 121-118 as a 5-point home favorite. Lakers first-year wing Carmelo Anthony stole the show and scored a team-high 28 points by making 10-of-15 shots (6-of-8 from behind the arc).

San Antonio lost its last outing 121-111 against the Milwaukee Bucks Saturday and failed to cover as a 6-point home underdog. Third-year forward Keldon Johnson scored 20 points on 50.0% shooting and is currently averaging 20.7 points per game (PPG) on 56.3% shooting.

The Lakers won two of three regular-season meetings with the Spurs last year and covered in two of those outings as well. L.A. outrebounded San Antonio in all three meetings, while F LeBron James and F Anthony Davis each averaged at least 25 PPG against the Spurs last season.

Lakers at Spurs odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:20 p.m. ET.

Money line: Lakers -140 (bet $140 to win $100) | Spurs +115 (bet $100 to win $115)
Against the spread (ATS): Lakers -2.5 (-112) | Spurs +2.5 (-108)
Over/Under (O/U): 222.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Lakers at Spurs key injuries

Lakers

SF LeBron James (ankle) questionable
SF Trevor Ariza (knee) out
SG Wayne Ellington (hamstring) out
SF Talen Horton-Tucker (thumb) out
SG Kendrick Nunn (knee) out

Spurs

Nothing affecting gambling odds.

Lakers at Spurs odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Lakers 114, Spurs 105

Money line

“LEAN” to the LAKERS (-140) because there’s been “sharp line movement” towards the Spurs thus far. L.A.’s money line has gone from -195 on the consensus line down to the current price despite one-way action on the Lakers, according to pregame.com.

San Antonio lost crucial pieces this offseason with wing DeMar DeRozan, forward Rudy Gay and guard Patty Mills moving onto new teams. If those players were still on the Spurs, they’d probably give San Antonio the edge in the front and backcourt and much-needed wing scoring.

We might be getting some value because of LeBron’s name showing up on L.A.’s injury report, but that is another reason for my “lean” towards the Lakers. I’d actually prefer to bet the Lakers without a banged-up LeBron, running their offense through Russell Westbrook and AD.

Against the spread

PASS because the Lakers -2.5 (-112) money line is only 28 cents on the dollar more expensive than L.A.’s money so let’s just stick with the Lakers outright.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the UNDER 222.5 (-108) for a bunch of trendy reasons. First of all, five of their last six meetings have gone Under the total, including all three last season. Also, the Lakers are 17-27-2 O/U as a road favorite since the beginning of 2019.

On top of that, the return of fans to arenas around the league and the NBA’s new officiating mandate targeting unnatural offensive moves are reasons for the league-wide 20-29 O/U record through the first week of the season. Plus the officiating crew assigned to this game has a 0-5 O/U record this year.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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Houston Rockets at Dallas Mavericks odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Houston Rockets at Dallas Mavericks odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Houston Rockets (1-2) will travel to American Airlines Center to take on the Dallas Mavericks (1-1) Tuesday. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Rockets vs. Mavericks odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Dallas Mavericks have one of the preseason MVP favorites in PG Luka Doncic but have struggled so far this season, beating the Toronto Raptors by 8 and losing to the Atlanta Hawks by 26. The Mavs have averaged just 95 points per game, so PF Kristaps Porzingis and company haven’t helped out Doncic much.

The Rockets are full of rising stars. PF Christian Wood leads the team, but he will soon be eclipsed by No. 2 overall pick SG Jalen Green, who exploded onto the scene with 8 threes last game. We’ll see if he can keep up that as they enter a hostile American Airlines Center.

Rockets at Mavericks odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:12 p.m. ET.

Money line: Rockets +500 (bet $100 to win $500) | Mavericks -750 (bet $750 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Rockets +10.5 (-107) | Mavericks -10.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 221.5 (O: -107 | U: -115)

Rockets at Mavericks key injuries

Rockets

None affecting gambling odds

Mavericks

None affecting gambling odds

Rockets at Mavericks odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Mavericks 110, Rockets 108

Money line

PASS on the money line.

If anything, I might toss a partial-unit bet on the Rockets at +500 as they’re coming off a complete manhandling of the Oklahoma City Thunder. At full strength and with rookie G Jalen Green surging the Rockets should be a capable opponent.

Nonetheless, I’d still pass on the money line.

Against the spread

BET on the ROCKETS +10.5 (-107) as the best value in this match.

The line was at +11 earlier, and without any injuries, there is reason to assume bets are raining in on Houston.

Why not though? Wood is averaging 22 and 10, Green is finding his rhythm, and both Ja’Sean Tate and Kevin Porter Jr. are score-first, crafty guards.

The Mavericks just haven’t shown enough this season. Stars like Doncic that typically get calls for their tricky ball handling and leaning into shots have struggled.

Doncic is averaging just 22.5 points per game despite being a preseason MVP favorite, and he needs to step up for the Mavericks to become a contender.

Given his struggles, the inconsistency of PF Kristaps Porzingis, and the rising stars Houston will be bringing to Dallas, the Rockets spread is an enticing play.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the UNDER 221.5 (-115) as it’s getting a little juice and is the better bet. With the Mavericks ranked 26th in pace their style should dictate this game.

A halfcourt-heavy offense led by Doncic, aided by G Tim Hardaway Jr. and filled with sharpshooters, Dallas prefers to beat you down with screens and post-ups. It should also be good for the Under here even if it works.

With many young players like Green, Tate and Porter Jr., Houston is a bit too inconsistent for me to think it could consistently put up more than 110. They’ve scored more than 106 points just once — a 33-point blowout over the Thunder where they posted 124.

With that in mind, the Under is the better play.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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Philadelphia 76ers at New York Knicks odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Philadelphia 76ers at New York Knicks odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

On Tuesday night, the Philadelphia 76ers (2-1) travel to take on the New York Knicks (2-1) at Madison Square Garden. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the 76ers at Knicks odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The 76ers are coming off a 12-point road win against the Thunder. They also have a double-figure win against the Pelicans and a home loss to the Brooklyn Nets, a disappointing ending to an otherwise solid outing.

Led by last season’s top-3 MVP candidate, C Joel Embiid, the Sixers have rallied behind the chaos that missing PG Ben Simmons has created. Mainly, it’s been SG Seth Curry that’s taken his game to the next level.

Former MVP PG Derrick Rose and the New York Knicks will be ready for Curry and Embiid.

With All-Star F Julius Randle leading the beloved Knicks, they’re coming off a discouraging road loss to the Magic after beating them the game before by 25.

They also have an overtime win over the Celtics. Both teams will look to right their last wrong in this game.

76ers at Knicks odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 1:01 a.m. ET.

Money line: 76ers +102 (bet $100 to win $102) | Knicks -125 (bet $125 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): 76ers +1.5 (-108) | Knicks -1.5 (-112)
Over/Under (O/U): 216.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

76ers at Knicks key injuries

76ers

C Andre Drummond (ankle) questionable
C Joel Embiid (knee) questionable
PG Ben Simmons (personal) out
PG Shake Milton (ankle) out

Knicks

C Nerlens Noel (knee) questionable

76ers at Knicks odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Knicks 109, 76ers 108

Money line

BET on the KNICKS (-125) as a solid gamble.

At home, under the bright lights of Madison Square Garden, the surging Knicks will take on the Sixers. The health of both rosters should matter greatly. Along those lines, the Sixers play mainly through Embiid and SF Tobias Harris.

Given that the Knicks are among the better defensive teams and finally having C Mitchell Robinson playing consistent minutes, they should be able to tame the dynamic duo. This is a game where the Sixers really could use Ben Simmons defensively.

With PG Derrick Rose thriving in New York and SG Evan Fournier staying hot after a terrific Olympics, the Knicks have the playmaking to go toe-to-toe with Philly.

With home-court advantage helping a bit, they should be the more lethal side. They only lost to the Magic because Fournier, Randle and RJ Barrett combined to go 5-for-24 from deep. That likely won’t repeat itself.

One of the best spread teams from a year ago, with such a margin threat, I’d take the odds on the money line instead.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the KNICKS -1.5 (-112) for the same reason as above. I’d rather take the money line over the points as all things indicate this being a highly competitive game.

In the national spotlight, expect a close one, and if not, there should be hope the Knicks, at home, get the job done. The Sixers are short-handed, and that should bode well for New York.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the UNDER 216.5 (-110) as it had a tad bit of juice. The Knicks haven’t been consistent enough to bank on them putting up over 110.

As for the Sixers, with a team depending heavily on Curry and PG Tyrese Maxey‘s shooting, I’d expect them to struggle unless Embiid can get going early.

Without Simmons, the Sixers rank dead last in Pace while the Knicks were at the bottom of the league last season, showing both teams’ reliance on half-court offense.

Because of that, I’d go for the Under in this one.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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Golden State Warriors at Oklahoma City Thunder odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Golden State Warriors at Oklahoma City Thunder odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Golden State Warriors (3-0) will take on the Oklahoma City Thunder (0-3) at Paycom Center Tuesday in a battle of one of the best versus one of the worst. Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Warriors vs. Thunder odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Warriors have downed the Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers and Sacramento Kings to start the season. Two-time MVP Stephen Curry is leading the way with an average of over 30 points per game as the Warriors enter as heavy favorites Tuesday.

However, against an elite group of up-and-coming guards including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Lu Dort, the Thunder will be able to put up a challenge and should actually match up pretty well.

It’s been an ugly start for Oklahoma City though, having lost all three games by 12 or more points. We’ll see if they can snap at least that streak at home against the West’s best.

Warriors at Thunder odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:50 a.m. ET.

Money line: Warriors -600 (bet $600 to win $100) | Thunder +420 (bet $100 to win $420)
Against the spread (ATS): Warriors -9.5 (-110) | Thunder +9.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 223.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Warriors at Thunder key injuries

Warriors

SF Klay Thompson (Achilles) out
C James Wiseman (meniscus) out

Thunder

PF Derrick Favors (out) rest

Warriors at Thunder odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Warriors 112, Thunder 103

Money line

PASS on the money line. Upsets happen in the NBA. Teams don’t make shots.

Two-time MVP G Stephen Curry has had off games. With that in mind, -600 is far from a good value, and I’m also not hanging one on the winless, inexperienced home side.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the THUNDER +9.5 (-110) despite the books giving it some juice.

The Thunder haven’t played well this season, but with their defensive-minded backcourt they should match up very well against a team that’s dependent on Curry and SG Jordan Poole.

Alexander is a superstar in the making and should be able to have his way against a smaller Warriors backcourt. SGA stands 6-foot-6 and starts alongside Dort who is 6-foot-3 and 215 pounds.

The Thunder haven’t lost by single digits yet, but at the same time, the Warriors only beat the Kings by 12 for their lone double-digit victory, and that took outscoring them by 10 in the final quarter.

The Warriors are great and should win, but I’d take the Thunder to at least make it a competition. It also seems like the Thunder got a boost, from +9 to +9.5 with Favors out, giving young C Isaiah Roby a chance to shine.

Over/Under

BET on the UNDER 223.5 (-112) as the best bet in this game.

The Thunder are competent defensively and have larger guards, but they have struggled immensely to score They’re shooting the second-worst three-point percentage yet hoisting up the 12th most threes per game.

With former Defensive Player of the Year PF Draymond Green roaming the paint, I’d expect them to continue to struggle offensively.

Golden State has cleared 115 in all three games and had two quarters where it’s scored 38 or more points. Against Oklahoma City the chances of that happening are slim.

I’ll take the Under as this should be a relatively low-scoring, defensive-heavy game. Both teams are 1-2 on the total as well, boding well for the Under to hit.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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Denver Nuggets at Utah Jazz odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Tuesday’s Denver Nuggets at Utah Jazz odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Denver Nuggets (2-1) face the Utah Jazz (2-0) Tuesday. Tip-off is from Vivint Arena is set for 10 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Nuggets vs. Jazz odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Nuggets are playing for the second night in a row. Denver dropped a 99-87 home game to the Cleveland Cavaliers Monday as it turned the ball over 21 times and shot only 9-for-38 from three-point range. C Nikola Jokic paced the Nuggets with 24 points and 19 rebounds in the loss.

The Jazz last played Friday in a 110-101 win over the Sacramento Kings. G Donovan Mitchell led the team with 27 points and the defense held the Kings to 39.4% shooting from the field.

Nuggets at Jazz odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:07 a.m. ET.

Money line: Nuggets +230 (bet $100 to win $230) | Jazz -300 (bet $300 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Nuggets +6.5 (-105) | Jazz -6.5 (-120)
Over/Under (O/U): 219.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Nuggets at Jazz key injuries

Nuggets

None affecting gambling odds

Jazz

F Rudy Gay (heel) out

Nuggets at Jazz odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Jazz 108, Nuggets 102

Money line

PASS on the money line.

The Jazz are second in the league in defensive rating and the Nuggets have struggled more offensively than one would imagine, averaging just 99.7 points per game.

While Jokic is the reigning MVP, the Jazz have the defense to show him with C Rudy Gobert — the reigning Defensive Player of the Year. They were a league-best 35-7 at home last season and are 1-0 there so far this year, but the money line doesn’t have enough value to be worth a bet.

Against the spread

The Jazz have covered the spread in both games they have played this season. They had a league-best 65.8% home cover percentage last year.

The Nuggets have failed to cover the spread in their last two games, but have not allowed an opponent to score 100 or more points this season. That will keep Denver in a close game.

Take the NUGGETS +7.5 (-120).

Over/Under

Neither team has had a game hit the Over this season. As noted, the Nuggets have not had an opponent crack 100 points and they are averaging only 99.7 points per game themselves.

The Jazz’s highest total so far this season is 211 points.

Take UNDER 219.5 (-112).

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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Portland Trail Blazers at Los Angeles Clippers odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Monday’s Portland Trail Blazers at Los Angeles Clippers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Los Angeles Clippers (0-2) host the Portland Trail Blazers (1-1) Monday at Staples Center for a 10:30 p.m. ET tip-off. Below, we look at the Trail Blazers vs. Clippers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Portland evened their regular-season record after clubbing the Phoenix Suns 134-105 Saturday. Blazers SG C.J. McCollum scored a game-high 28 points on 52.6% field goal shooting and Portland dominated Phoenix in all “four factors” .

L.A. lost to the Memphis Grizzlies 120-114 as 4-point home favorites in its last outing. Paul George balled out by scoring 41 points on 60.0% shooting with 10 rebounds and 4 assists but didn’t get enough help from his supporting cast.

The Clippers won all three regular-season meetings against the Trail Blazers last season and covered in two of three victories.

PG lit up Portland last season, averaging over 30.0 points per game (PPG) on 73.1% true shooting (.582/.462/.889), 8.0 rebounds (RPG) and 5.0 assists per game (APG) with a plus-23 net rating in those three meetings.

On the other hand, Damian Lillard struggled vs. L.A., scoring just 15.5 PPG on 41.1% true shooting (.179/.071/.909) in his two appearances against the Clippers last year.

Trail Blazers at Clippers odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 3:40 p.m. ET.

Money line: Trail Blazers +122 (bet $100 to win $122) | Clippers -150 (bet $150 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Trail Blazers +2.5 (-105) | Clippers -2.5 (-120)
Over/Under (O/U): 230.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Trail Blazers at Clippers key injuries

Trail Blazers

SG Norman Powell (knee) out
SF Tony Snell (foot) out

Clippers

PF Serge Ibaka (back) out
SF Kawhi Leonard (knee) out

Trail Blazers at Clippers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Trail Blazers 117, Clippers 111

Money line

L.A. doesn’t have the same defensive identity it has in recent seasons with Kawhi sidelined by injury and former PG Patrick Beverley leaving in free agency this offseason.

Both were two of the best perimeter defenders in the association and crucial to the Clippers more or less shutting down Dame Time last season. Not only does L.A. not have said defensive identity but guard Reggie Jackson isn’t an above-average starter and could be in trouble against Lillard.

Slight “LEAN” to the TRAIL BLAZERS (+122) for a tiny wager if at all since Portland plus the points is a much wiser bet and Clippers head coach Ty Lue has the edge over Trail Blazers rookie head coach Chauncey Billups.

Against the spread

BET the TRAIL BLAZERS +2.5 (-105) heavier than or instead of Portland’s money line.

My read on the Clippers is their stock is too high because the market is overemphasizing their awesome playoff performance last year when Kawhi was sidelined with a knee injury.

Lue did an awesome job and maybe continues to do so this season. However, counting on players like Jackson, forward Marcus Morris and guard Luke Kennard could mean the Clippers struggle to have a winning record.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the UNDER 230.5 (-112) for a quarter-unit because it’s the “sharp” side in the total but I wouldn’t put a heavy wager on the Under since we are getting the worst of the number.

This is a “Pros vs. Joe’s” scenario in the betting market as nearly 60% of the cash is on the Under but roughly two-thirds of the bets placed are on the Over, according to Pregame.com.

The presumed “sharp” side of the market has forced oddsmakers to move the Trail Blazers-Clippers total down from the 234-point opener. So, while the Under is the play, a lot of the value is gone.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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Chicago Bulls at Toronto Raptors odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Chicago Bulls at Toronto Raptors odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Chicago Bulls (3-0) take a trip across the border to play the Toronto Raptors (1-2) Monday. Tip-off from Scotiabank Arena is set for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Bulls at Raptors odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Chicago Bulls, with the help of offseason additions PG Lonzo Ball, SG DeMar DeRozan and SG Alex Caruso, have started the season undefeated.

They’ve taken down the Detroit Pistons twice and have a win over the New Orleans Pelicans, so despite their 3-0 start they haven’t exactly had the most pressing schedule. Nonetheless, they’ve handled business and will enter as favorites against the Raptors.

The Raptors are still without All-Star PF Pascal Siakam, giving top-five pick rookie SF Scottie Barnes ample opportunity to shine. The Raps have beaten the Boston Celtics and lost to the Washington Wizards and Dallas Mavericks to start their season.

Bulls at Raptors odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:45 p.m. ET.

Money line: Bulls -130 (bet $130 to win $100) | Raptors +105 (bet $100 to win $105)
Against the spread (ATS): Bulls -1.5 (-120) | Raptors +1.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 211.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Bulls at Raptors key injuries

Bulls

PG Coby White (left shoulder) out
C Nikola Vucevic (illness) questionable

Raptors

PF Pascal Siakam (left shoulder) out

Bulls at Raptors odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bulls 114, Raptors 105

Money line

“LEAN” to the BULLS (-130) here as they’re the most talented and healthy side.

Their trio of offseason additions that have accompanied SG Zach LaVine, PF Patrick Williams and Vucevic have proven to be too much for teams to handle.

While the Bulls haven’t beaten any quality opponents, I wouldn’t count the Raptors as quality either without Siakam. The more talented side should come out on top, and that’s Chicago.

Against the spread

BET on the BULLS -1.5 (-120) as the best value in this game.

The Bulls are surging with LaVine averaging the 12th-most points in the NBA. He’s been terrific, and like with Donavon Mitchell and the Utah Jazz, a true contender can be made with the right players around a score-first guard.

LaVine is going make the Bulls a top team in the East with Caruso, DeRozan, Vucevic, Williams and others by his side. With the Bulls 3-0 against the spread and this being their smallest amount yet, I expect them to make it 4-0.

While the Raptors have quality youth, starting just one player with more than four years of experience should, as they’ve seen, yield inconsistent performances.

With that in mind, the Bulls are the safer play on the spread.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the OVER 212.5 (-112) as the better play on the total. It’s also a little juiced, giving some reassurance the sportsbooks feel it’s also the better bet.

With Barnes and SF OG Anunoby averaging a combined 34 points per game, the Raptors are starting to figure it out. Those two players are really the question mark with the Over hitting.

The two forwards will be asked to shoulder much of the scoring load, and against a Bulls side that gave up 26 to SF Brandon Ingram, I expect one or both to get loose.

Given Chicago’s offensive talent, they should top 105 and even near 110.

The Celtics, Mavs and Wiz all struggled against the Raptors’ stingy defense. Chicago will put their defensive prowess to the test as arguably the best offense they’ve faced so far this season.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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Washington Wizards at Brooklyn Nets odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Washington Wizards at Brooklyn Nets odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Washington Wizards (2-0) visit the Brooklyn Nets (1-2) Monday. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET at Barclays Center. Below, we look at the Wizards vs. Nets odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Nets came into the season as the favorites to win the NBA Finals but have disappointed so far. Brooklyn is led by SF Kevin Durant and SG James Harden and remains without PG Kyrie Irving.

The Nets have received big-time contributions from PF LaMarcus Aldridge and PG Patty Mills, a couple of veterans they bring off the bench. They’ve lost to the Milwaukee Bucks and Charlotte Hornets, both by more than 15 points and defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 114-109.

The Wizards are led by SG Bradley Beal who finished the 2020-2021 season second league-wide in points per game with 31.3.

The Wiz are undefeated, taking down the Indiana Pacers 135-134 in overtime and then also holding the Toronto Raptors to just 83 points in a season-opening road victory. This will be their biggest challenge yet.

Wizards at Nets odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:27 a.m. ET.

Money line: Wizards +230 (bet $100 to win $230) | Nets -300 (bet $300 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Wizards +6.5 (-105) | Nets -6.5 (-120)
Over/Under (O/U): 231.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Wizards at Nets key injuries

Wizards

SG Bradley Beal (right hip) questionable
PF Rui Hachimura (personal) out
C Thomas Bryant (left knee) out

Nets

Nothing affecting betting odds

Wizards at Nets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Nets 118, Wizards 108

Money line

PASS on the money line. While the +230 for the Wizards to pull off an upset is intriguing, a hobbled Beal and no Hachimura would have me looking elsewhere.

Even if the Wizards were at full strength this would likely be a pass as the Nets are just overloaded with talent.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the NETS -6.5 (-120) with it receiving some juice from the sportsbooks.

Again, with the league’s second-leading scorer from a season ago potentially nursing an injury, I’m not liking backing the road team. Also, Durant and Harden haven’t played up to par.

The Nets would be 0-3 if not for a fourth quarter comeback against the Sixers However, at 1-2, they still have two losses of 16 or more points. It’s been an ugly start, and with PF Blake Griffin expected back, the Nets should be looking for a statement win at home.

I believe they get it. Especially with Hachimura out, I expect a big game from Durant as he should be seeing a subpar defender as well.

Over/Under

BET on the UNDER 231.5 (-108) as the best value in this game. Sportsbooks and fans continue to bank on the Nets offense being one of the best in the NBA.

With Harden and Durant, two former scoring title winners both still in their prime, there’s no reason they shouldn’t have topped 115 in any of their three games.

But, they haven’t, and despite the prediction that they hit the mark at home, the Nets defense and a banged-up Wizards team is what should help fuel the Under to hit in this one.

In their sole performance topping 100 so far this season, the Wiz put up 19 threes. I do not see that happening often. Fade the Wizards and back a capable Nets defense here.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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Milwaukee Bucks at Indiana Pacers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Milwaukee Bucks at Indiana Pacers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Milwaukee Bucks (2-1) head to Indianapolis to take on the Indiana Pacers (1-2) Monday. Tip-off from Gainbridge Fieldhouse is set for 7 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Bucks vs. Pacers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Commencing the season with their NBA Championship rings presentation, the Bucks went out and pummeled the Brooklyn Nets 127-104. They’ve since lost to the Miami Heat by 42 (137-95) and beat the San Antonio Spurs by 10 (121-111).

The Bucks are led by two-time MVP PF Giannis Antetokoumpo. Giannis is the only Milwaukee player averaging over 20 points per game through the start of the season. The Bucks are among the league’s top three-point shooting rosters with SG Grayson Allen and SG Pat Connaughton.

The Pacers took down the Heat by 11 (102-91) in their last outing Saturday. Both of the Pacers’ losses, to the Charlotte Hornets and the Washington Wizards, have come by just 1 point each.

Led by PF Domantas Sabonis, who is averaging 26 points per game, Indianapolis is a competent side but not one expecting to have title aspirations.

Bucks at Pacers odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Monday at 9:15 a.m. ET.

Money line: Bucks -145 (bet $145 to win $100) | Pacers +120 (bet $100 to win $120)
Against the spread (ATS): Bucks -2.5 (-115) | Pacers +2.5 (-107)
Over/Under (O/U): 229.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Bucks at Pacers key injuries

Bucks

PG Jrue Holiday (left ankle) doubtful
C Brook Lopez (back) out
SG Donte DiVincenzo (left ankle) out
PF Bobby Portis (left hamstring) out

Pacers

SG Caris LeVert (back) out
SF T.J. Warren (left navicular) out

Bucks at Pacers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bucks 118, Pacers 116

Money line

PASS on the total with a slight lean to the Pacers as the Bucks are decimated with injuries.

There’s some value with Indianapolis getting plus money at home, but given how good of a regular-season team Milwaukee is even without Holiday and their slew of role players, I’d still play the points instead.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the PACERS +2.5 (-107) as the best bet on the spread. The Pacers have been competing against quality opponents and have lost by just 1 point in both their defeats.

Coming off an 11-point victory in which they held SF Jimmy Butler to just 19 points and the Heat to just 91, the Pacers should again come out with a competitive nature.

Sabonis might not ever be the best player on a championship-contending team, but he can certainly be one on a top-tier team in the East.

With a plethora of underrated role players like PG Malcolm Brogdon and rookie PG Chris Duarte, the Pacers should be able to keep pace with Milwaukee, especially with C Myles Turner roaming the paint and limiting the Bucks star forward.

Over/Under

BET on the OVER 229.5 (-115) as it’s the better play and has a bit of juice behind it.

The Over is leaned on by the sportsbooks as both sides have shown aggressive offensive play. The Pacers have yet to go under 100 in a game this season and have topped 120 in two of the three.

Milwaukee has one of the best offenses in the NBA as well, clearing 120 in two of three games also. The Bucks have hit at least 15 threes in two of their three games so far.

Given the pace at which this game should be played the Over is the better bet.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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