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Indiana Pacers at Brooklyn Nets odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Indiana Pacers at Brooklyn Nets odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Indiana Pacers (1-4) travel to Barclays Center Friday to take on the Brooklyn Nets (2-3). Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Pacers at Nets odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Pacers enter their sixth game of the season with a disappointing four losses already compiled, but they’ve been mostly hard-fought games outside of their most recent 18-point defeat at the hands of the Toronto Raptors.

The Pacers are led by C Myles Turner and PF Domantas Sabonis, and start rookie G Chris Duarte.

The Nets have also disappointed to open the season as SG James Harden has been relatively non-existent. Brooklyn would also be sitting at 1-4 had it not made a fourth-quarter comeback against the Philadelphia 76ers earlier in the season.

Former MVP SF Kevin Durant and a plethora of savvy veterans lead the preseason championship favorites.

Pacers 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 10:40 a.m. ET.

Money line: Pacers +330 (bet $100 to win $330) | Nets -450 (bet $450 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Pacers +8.5 (-110) | Nets -8.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 222.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Pacers at Nets key injuries

Pacers

PG Malcolm Brogdon (left hamstring) out
SF T.J. Warren (left navicular) out
SG Caris LeVert (back) questionable

Nets

C Nic Claxton (non-Covid illness) questionable
PG Kyrie Irving (personal) out

Pacers at Nets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Nets 112, Pacers 100

Money line

PASS on the money line.

The Nets should come out on top at home. However, they just lost by double figures to the Miami Heat and were obliterated by the Charlotte Hornets earlier in the season.

They’re not trustworthy at -450, and at +330 I don’t like the Pacers much either, especially with how many points they’re being given.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the NETS -8.5 (-110) as the better side.

Brooklyn has been taken care of pretenders so far this season, and against an Indiana team missing its second and third-best player, I expect the Nets to have their way. The Pacers likely won’t have an answer for Durant.

The Nets have only been in one game that’s been decided by single digits, and with the Pacers taking to the road after a tough loss, I expect their train wreck of a season to continue.

Harden is just too talented to note figure things out. He should find his footing soon, and when he does, the Nets will return to being one of the most feared teams in basketball.

The Nets are 1-2 against the spread (ATS) at home but are 1-0 ATS against sub-.500 teams at home. They should blow out a short-handed Pacers squad.

Over/Under

BET on the UNDER 222.5 (-107) as the best value this game holds. The Nets have been surprisingly awful offensively this season.

The team isn’t scoring if Durant isn’t. He’s averaged 29.8 points per game and the Nets as a team still rank 28th. They haven’t shown enough to bet that they’ll go off and score 120 like last year.

The Pacers started the season red hot, scoring over 120 in each of their first two games. However, it’s been ugly since, averaging just 104 points per game despite one of the three going an extra 5 minutes.

Combine the Nets’ struggles and the Pacers’ injuries, and the Under is the best play in this game.

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San Antonio Spurs at Dallas Mavericks odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Thursday’s San Antonio Spurs at Dallas Mavericks odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Dallas Mavericks (2-1) host the San Antonio Spurs (1-3) Thursday at the American Airlines Center for an 8:30 p.m. ET tip-off. Below, we look at the Spurs vs. Mavericks odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

After smacking around the Orlando Magic in their season opener, the Spurs have lost three in a row (1-2 against the spread) to the Denver Nuggets, Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers.

Dallas has won back-to-back games aginst the Toronto Raptors and Houston Rockets since losing its opener to the Atlanta Hawks 113-87. The Mavs are 20th in net rating with the third-worst effective field goal shooting (eFG%).

The Mavs won and covered two of their three regular-season meetings with the Spurs last season. Dallas All-Star Luka Doncic averaged 29.0 points per game (PPG) with 8.0 rebounds and 10.0 assists per game in the three meetings.

Spurs 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 3:15 p.m. ET.

Money line: Spurs +200 (bet $100 to win $200) | Mavericks -250 (bet $250 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Spurs +5.5 (-105) | Mavericks -5.5 (-120)
Over/Under (O/U): 220.5 (O: -107 | U: -115)

Spurs at Mavericks key injuries

Spurs

SF Doug McDermott (knee) out

Mavericks

PF Kristaps Porzingis (back) out

Spurs at Mavericks odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Mavericks 109, Spurs 106

Money line

PASS with a slight “lean” to the Spurs (+200) since I “lean” to San Antonio plus the points. The Spurs have a massive coaching edge and a plus-net rating despite their 1-3 record and last three opponents being playoff teams last season.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the SPURS +5.5 (-105) for a half-unit only because a slight majority of the market is backing San Antonio but there’s “reverse line movement” heading towards Dallas, according to Pregame.com. It’s always suspicious when sportsbooks make the more popular side cheaper.

Two of the three Spurs-Mavericks meetings last season were decided by five or fewer points. Furthermore, Dallas’s offense has shot poorly out the gate this season and San Antonio’s defense has done a good job running opponents off the 3-point line.

The Mavs rank 28th in eFG% and the Spurs have the 11th-best defensive 3-point shooting and hold opponents to third-fewest 3-point attempts per game.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 220.5 (-115) for 1 unit as my favorite play in the Spurs-Mavericks game.

The Under has been hit by “sharp line movement”, as the market is pretty much split on the total but nearly 90% of the cash wagered is on the Under according to Pregame.com. The pro-Under money has steamed the total down from the 221.5-point opener to the current price.

San Antonio scores the second-most points per possession in transition, but Dallas gives up the third-fewest points per possession in transition on defense.

On top of that, we have the aforementioned strength-on-weakness matchup with San Antonio’s strong 3-point defense vs. Dallas’s poor 3-point shooting thus far.

Let’s follow the money and BET 1 unit UNDER 220.5 (-115).

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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New York Knicks at Chicago Bulls odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Thursday’s New York Knicks at Chicago Bulls odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The New York Knicks (3-1) roll into the “Windy City” Thursday for a 5 p.m. ET tip-off against an undefeated Chicago Bulls (4-0) at United Center. Below, we look at the Knicks vs. Bulls odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

New York has covered in all its victories including a 112-99 win over the Philadelphia 76ers Tuesday as a 1-point home favorite. The Knicks have the fifth-best net points per 100 possessions in non-garbage time through four games, according to CleaningTheGlass.com.

Chicago has also covered in all of its victories with the latest being a 111-108 win at the Toronto Raptors as a 2-point favorite. CleaningTheGlass.com ranks the Bulls fourth in net points per 100 possessions but Chicago hasn’t played a team with a winning record from last season.

The Knicks won and covered in two of three regular-season meetings with the Bulls last year. All three games between New York and Chicago last season went Under the total.

New York first-time All-Star forward Julius Randle scored 28.0 points per game (PPG) on 63.2% true shooting (.508/.556/.824) with a plus-15 net rating in three games against Chicago last season.

Knicks at Bulls odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:18 p.m. ET.

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

Knicks at Bulls key injuries

Knicks

C Nerlens Noel (knee) out

Bulls

SG Zach LaVine (thumb) questionable
PG Coby White (shoulder) out

Knicks at Bulls odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Knicks 110, Bulls 103

Money line

BET the KNICKS (+102) for 1 unit because I have a “wait and see” approach with the Bulls at the moment and New York has more continuity.

Chicago brought in several new pieces this offseason it’s relying on compared to a New York team that added to its playoff nucleus.

The Knicks know exactly what they are and shoot better from the field. New York is seventh in assist-to-turnover rate and fourth in effective field goal shooting (eFG%).

There’s nothing impressive about Chicago’s opponents such as the Detroit Pistons, New Orleans Pelicans and the Raptors. Whereas the Knicks beat the snot out of the Sixers Tuesday.

Against the spread

PASS with a slight “lean” to the Knicks +1.5 (-108) since I’m betting them to win outright. However, I’d need more than 1.5 points worth of insurance with New York. If the Knicks become a 2.5-point or greater underdog then I’d buy some insurance for my New York money line wager.

Over/Under

Slight “LEAN” to the UNDER 216.5 (-112) for a quarter unit only because I much prefer the Knicks outright rather than the total in this game.

The presumed “sharp” side of the market is backing the Under while more bets have been placed on the Over, according to Pregame.com.

Typically, in sports betting, it’s profitable to follow the money especially when it’s flowing in the opposite direction as the public.

Also, through their first four games, the Bulls play at the 26th-fastest pace, and the Knicks clock in at the 27th-fastest pace. However, the total has moved up from the 215-point opener despite more money being on the Under and New York has been red-hot from behind the arc in all three wins.

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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Utah Jazz at Houston Rockets odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Utah Jazz at Houston Rockets odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Utah Jazz (3-0) head to the Toyota Center to take on the Houston Rockets (1-3) Thursday. Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Jazz vs. Rockets odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Jazz finally got going offensively as they scored 122 against the Denver Nuggets Tuesday and it could’ve been more had reigning MVP Nikola Jokic not been injured in the first half – he helped pace the Nuggets.

Seven players notched double-digit scoring for the Jazz, while no player topped 30 points in a full team effort. They come into this one as heavy favorites despite being on the road.

The Rockets have only defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder and have lost by ten points to the Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks over the last week, although they covered the 10.5-point spread against Dallas. They’re primarily led by C Christian Wood and have also gotten a few big-time performances from rookie G Jalen Green.

This should actually be a good matchup for Houston as Wood’s length and the Rockets’ depth should give Utah some problems.

Jazz at Rockets odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:55 a.m. ET.

Money line: Jazz -450 (bet $450 to win $100) | Rockets +330 (bet $100 to win $330)
Against the spread (ATS): Jazz -8.5 (-122) | Rockets +8.5 (-102)
Over/Under (O/U): 220.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Jazz at Rockets key injuries

Jazz

SG Danuel House Jr. (right foot) out

Rockets

SF Bojan Bogdanovic (non-COVID illness) questionable
PF Eric Paschall (facial infection) questionable

Jazz at Rockets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Jazz 116, Rockets 109

Money line

PASS on the money line as the Jazz are too expensive for a team on the road while the Rockets likely aren’t likely to come out on top in this one, although I do expect it to be close.

Against the spread

BET on the ROCKETS +8.5 (-122) as their quickness and athleticism in the backcourt should give Utah some problems.

Also aside from the trouble SG Kevin Porter Jr. and SF Jae’Sean Tate should give to SG Donovan Mitchell and PG Mike Conley defensively, we’ll get a battle of sixth men.

SG Eric Gordon vs. PG Jordan Clarkson may dictate this game, and I’m siding with Gordon. He’s averaging 15.3 points per game and shooting over 55 percent from 3-point range.

While the Jazz are a complete, well-coached team, Houston should be able to keep them off the glass. The Rockets are top five in defensive rebounding rate while the Jazz rank third in offensive rebounding rate.

That’s the game right there, and I’d side with HOUSTON +8.5 (-122). It’s a relatively high spread, and it’s just the better bet.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the OVER 220.5 (-110) as the Jazz are one of the best three-point shooting teams in the NBA and the Rockets can match their pace. Houston ranks third in the league in PACE.

While the Jazz might be 23rd in PACE, they still have the fifth-best offensive rating. With Mitchell, Conley, SF Joe Ingles and Clarkson, the Jazz are an ultra-efficient offense.

These teams are 10th and 16th overall in points per game, combining for just over 221 points per game. Against each other, with the pace and offensive firepower, I expect the Over 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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Detroit Pistons at Philadelphia 76ers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Detroit Pistons at Philadelphia 76ers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The winless Detroit Pistons (0-3) travel east to take on the Philadelphia 76ers (2-2) at Wells Fargo Center Thursday. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Pistons vs. 76ers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Pistons are the lone NBA team without a win after the predicted Oklahoma City Thunder victory Wednesday night.

Detroit is led by the talented SG Saddiq Bey and SF Jerami Grant. Grant missed the Pistons’ last game as a game-time decision and seems likely to play against Philly. Detroit hasn’t had an easy schedule so far, with games against the Chicago Bulls twice and the Atlanta Hawks, and the Sixers won’t help much there.

Philadelphia is coming off a 13-point loss to the New York Knicks. The 76ers have only dropped games to New York and the Brooklyn Nets, two respectable losses. They’re clearly hurting without the talent of three-time All-Star G Ben Simmons who remains on the sidelines.

Pistons at 76ers odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:05 a.m. ET.

Money line: Pistons +440 (bet $100 to win $440) | 76ers -650 (bet $650 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Pistons +10.5 (-115) | 76ers -10.5 (-107)
Over/Under (O/U): 214.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Pistons at 76ers key injuries

Pistons

SF Jerami Grant (left elbow) questionable
SG Cade Cunningham (G-League assignment) out

76ers

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

Pistons at 76ers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Pistons 103, 76ers 101

Money line

PASS on the money line, although I like the Pistons. It’s less about calling the upset and more about finding value when the matchups present themselves. The Pistons didn’t have Grant, their best player, against the Hawks.

Grant should be back, and I’d also think Embiid’s questionable tag is more likely to be doubtful. Pistons C Isaiah Stewart should be able to impact his efficiency even if he’s in.

Nonetheless, I’m still passing as getting points is the way to go here.

Against the spread

BET on the PISTONS +10.5 (-115) as the best value.

While Detroit hasn’t shown much, the market seems to be overkilling a Sixers team that heavily relies on the three. Philadelphia is the fourth-most efficient team from deep.

Along those lines, the Sixers are dead last in PACE, showing how slow they play and how dependent they are in the half-court setting. They may struggle to find an identity without their two main stars if Embiid misses this one.

I also favor the Pistons for how Grant, PF Kelly Olynyk or Stewart match up with the likes of PF Tobias Harris. Oddly enough, the Pistons rank in the top ten in defensive rating.

They should be able to hold the Sixers down with their length, especially if Grant is able to play.

Over/Under

BET on the UNDER 214.5 (-112) as great value.

While it’s on the lower side, the Pistons rank dead last in offensive rating at 91. The second-worst team is over 100. Detroit has struggled to score.

The Sixers rank in the top five of offensive rating but have the slowest moving offense in the NBA, preferring the half court setting than transition, especially without Simmons.

If one of Embiid or Grant decides to rest, which does feel likely, the amount of playmaking would take a drastic hit and the Under should hit. That feels like the more possible side.

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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Memphis Grizzlies at Golden State Warriors odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Thursday’s Memphis Grizzlies at Golden State Warriors odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

Thursday brings more NBA action as the Memphis Grizzlies (2-2) play the second game of a back-to-back on the road. They fave the Golden State Warriors (4-0). Thursday’s tip time is 10 p.m. ET at Chase Center. Below, we look at the Grizzlies vs, Warriors odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Grizzlies started the season 2-0 but now have lost two in a row. They are playing their fourth road game in a row. They were beaten 116-96 by the Portland Trail Blazers Wednesday night. Five players are averaging double figures in scoring on the team, but PG Ja Morant is lighting it up to start the year, averaging 30.5 points per game.

The Warriors are off to an unbeaten start, although they have trailed in every game at halftime. PG Stephen Curry is averaging 29.0 points per game to start the year, and three others are averaging more than 14 points per game.

Grizzlies at Warriors odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:45 a.m. ET.

Money line: Grizzlies +180 (bet $100 to win $180) | Warriors -230 (bet $230 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Grizzlies +5.5 (-108) | Warriors -5.5 (-112)
Over/Under (O/U): 232.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Grizzlies at Warriors key injuries

Grizzlies

F Dillon Brooks (hand) out

Warriors

SG Klay Thompson (Achilles) out
C James Wiseman (knee) out

Grizzlies at Warriors odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Grizzlies 120, Warriors 115

Money line

The Grizzlies, before Wednesday night, were putting up points. They scored 118 or more in each of their first three games.

The Warriors have been playing with fire so far, having trailed at halftime in every game this season.

A Morant vs. Curry battle is going to be fun to watch. Tonight, expect the young star to have the edge as the Grizzlies look to end a two-game losing streak. The Warriors have to lose sometime. Tonight is likely that night.

Take the GRIZZLIES (+180).

Against the spread

The Grizzlies are 3-1 ATS this season and have been underdogs in three of four games so far. They are 2-1 ATS in those games.

The Warriors are 2-2 ATS and have been favored in their last three contests, going 1-2 ATS in those games. They have failed to cover the spread in either game that they were favored by at least four points.

Naturally, believing the Grizzlies will win this game outright, I’ve got them covering this game, which gives you a few points to play with if you don’t have the confidence level to bet the money line on them.

Take the GRIZZLIES +5.5 (-108).

Over/Under

The Grizzlies scored 118 or more points in each of their first three games before being held to 96 Wednesday night. Wednesday’s loss was their only game to stay Under the projected total this season.

The Warriors have had only one game go Over the projected total and have not hit the over in the last three games.

They have scored 115 points or more in three of their four games.

Tonight should be a basketfest, with Curry and Morant leading the way.

Take OVER 232.5 (-115).

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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LA Lakers at Oklahoma City Thunder odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s LA Lakers at Oklahoma City Thunder odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Los Angeles Lakers (2-2) will take on the Oklahoma City Thunder (0-4) at Paycom Center tonight. Tip is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Lakers at Thunder odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

With both teams coming off a game yesterday, the Thunder should get a slight lean as they’re the healthier and younger team.

In an overtime thriller with the San Antonio Spurs, PF Anthony Davis went down. With SF LeBron James already out, the Lakers may struggle against one of the worst teams in the division.

The Thunder are coming off an 8-point home loss to the Warriors, their fourth straight. The Thunder and Detroit Pistons are the league’s lone winless teams.

They’ll look to change that Wednesday night against a shorthanded Lakers.

Lakers at Thunder odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Wednesday at 6:20 p.m. ET.

Money line: Lakers -190 (bet $190 to win $100) | Thunder +155 (bet $100 to win $155)
Against the spread (ATS): Lakers -4.5 (-110) | Thunder +4.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 215.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Lakers at Thunder key injuries

Lakers

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

Thunder

C Mike Muscala (rest) out

Lakers at Thunder odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Thunder 108, Lakers 103

Money line

“LEAN” on the THUNDER (+155) as a great plus-money bet. PG Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is an ultra-talented guard, and he finally got going last night against the Warriors.

While the Thunder didn’t win, they did hold a lead for the bulk of the first half, losing after a 33-17 third-quarter from Golden State. They finally showed competence.

That said, the Lakers played an overtime game against the Spurs and have the oldest roster in the NBA, by a long shot. They should be worn down while the Thunder look spry.

That’s a key reason why I’m taking OKC.

Against the spread

BET the THUNDER +4.5 (-110) as Oklahoma City’s backcourt is aggressive and lengthy defensively.

The Thunder put up a strong fight against the Warriors. They came up short, but they did manage to cover the 9-point spread and hold two-time MVP PG Stephen Curry and rising star SG Jordan Poole to just 33 combined points.

With C Derrick Favors back in action after a game of rest, they should be able to hold down the LA frontcourt, especially with AD sounding more like he’ll be sidelined.

It’d be shocking to see him play on a back-to-back following an ankle injury, despite his questionable tag.

Nonetheless, lean to the Thunder; they’ll be at home and with a strong defensive backcourt. The Lakers backcourt will have to be their strength, and I’d bet against that happening… pun intended.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the UNDER 215.5 (-112) as I feel the Lakers may struggle to score.

Even if Davis does play, he should see reduced minutes.

Without Davis and many of their key role players, as you can tell by the lengthy list above, the Lakers will be banking on a supernova performance from Russell Westbrook and Malik Monk to get the job done.

I’m not willing to bet they manage to up big-time points on an opposing backcourt of the 6-foot-3 215-pound SG Lu Dort and 6-foot-6 SGA.

Also, the Lakers rank outside the top ten in offensive rating with the Thunder in the bottom three. Without their two stars, the Lakers would likely be with OKC at the bottom of that rankings.

With that in mind, I’m leaning to 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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Cleveland Cavaliers at Los Angeles Clippers odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Wednesday’s Cleveland Cavaliers at Los Angeles Clippers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Cleveland Cavaliers (2-2) continue their five-game road trip with a stop at Staples Center to take on the Los Angeles Clippers (1-2) Wednesday. Tip-off is scheduled for 10:30 p.,m. ET. Below, we look at the Cavaliers vs. Clippers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Cavaliers have won their last two games to even their record on the season. They have not allowed more than 95 points in either game since allowing 123 or more points in two losses to open the year. Seven players are averaging at least 10 points per game, led by PG Collin Sexton‘s 19.0.

The Clippers picked up their first win Monday when they knocked off the Portland Trail Blazers 116-86. F Paul George is averaging 28.0 points per game so far this season.

Cavaliers 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 2:30 p.m. ET.

Money line: Cavaliers +300 (bet $100 to win $300) | Clippers -400 (bet $400 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Cavaliers +7.5 (-102) | Clippers -7.5 (-122)
Over/Under (O/U): 218.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Cavaliers at Clippers key injuries

Cavaliers

F Isaac Okoro (hamstring) doubtful

Clippers

F Serge Ibaka (back) out
F Kawhi Leonard (knee) out
F Marcus Morris Sr. (knee) out

Cavaliers at Clippers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Clippers 108, Cavaliers 103

Money line

PASS on the money line. The Clippers’ first two losses were to playoff-hopeful teams and then they blew the doors off the Trail Blazers. The value just isn’t here.

The Cavs have won two in a row over playoff teams from last season, but they’re still not expected to be a team who plays at that level consistently. They also aren’t worth a money line bet consistently over an expected contender.

Against the spread

While betting the Cavs on the money line is not necessarily the smartest bet yet, consider the spread. They have covered the spread as underdogs each of their last two games, their defense has improved and they are getting balanced scoring. Matching up with George will be a problem, but they will be in the game.

The Clippers are 2-1 ATS this season and 1-1 ATS as a favorite but have not had a spread this large yet.

Take the CAVALIERS +7.5 (-102).

Over/Under

The Cavs’ last two games have had totals under 200. Two of the Clippers’ three games have gone Under the projected total.

Both teams had Over percentages under 50% last season.

Take UNDER 218.5 (-107).

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Memphis Grizzlies at Portland Trail Blazers odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Wednesday’s Memphis Grizzlies at Portland Trail Blazers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Portland Trail Blazers (1-2) host the Memphis Grizzlies (2-1) Wednesday for a 10 p.m. ET tip-off at Moda Center. Below, we look at the Grizzlies vs. Trail Blazers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Memphis lost a 121-118 thriller Sunday at the Los Angeles Lakers and covered as a 5-point underdog in its second straight game at Staples Center. The Grizzlies upset the Los Angeles Clippers 120-114 Friday as 4-point underdogs and have covered in all three games this season.

Portland got crushed on the road Monday by the Clippers 116-86 and Damian Lillard has really struggled out the gate. Dame Time is averaging just 17.0 points per game (PPG) on 45.4% true shooting (.360/.083/.929) with 7.3 assists per game.

The Grizzlies won and covered against the Trail Blazers in two of their three regular-season meetings last year. Memphis guard Ja Morant has beaten Dame in three of their five all-time meetings and is 2-2-1 in their points scored comparison.

Grizzlies at Trail Blazers odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:50 p.m. ET.

Money line: Grizzlies +115 (bet $100 to win $115) | Trail Blazers -140 (bet $140 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Grizzlies +2.5 (-108) | Trail Blazers -2.5 (-112)
Over/Under (O/U): 234.5 (O: -107 | U: -115)

Grizzlies at Trail Blazers key injuries

Grizzlies

SF Dillon Brooks (hand) out

Trail Blazers

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

Grizzlies at Trail Blazers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Grizzlies 118, Trail Blazers 112

Money line

GIMME the GRIZZLIES (+115) for a half unit because they have the best player on the floor and Memphis’s physical style plays better under the NBA’s updated officiating compared to Portland’s finesse style of play.

The Grizzlies acquired big Steven Adams this offseason which automatically gives them an edge for interior presence and Morant attacks the basket with as much ferocity as anyone in the Association.

While I expect Dame to get it going offensively eventually, I also would bet that Morant takes his spot in this year’s NBA All-Star Game.

It’s only been three games, but Morant has the second-highest PER of any starter in the league (34.4) and Dame time is well behind him with a 13.6 PER.

I’m a huge fan of the pieces the Grizzlies have surrounded Morant with and when they get Brooks back they’ll be contending for a non-play-in postseason berth.

Against the spread

BET GRIZZLIES +2.5 (-108) for 1 unit until this number gets to 2 or lower then I’d just stick with Memphis’s money line.

This is a “Pros vs. Joe’s” game in the betting market with the presumed sharp money being on the Grizzlies and the public riding with the Heat, according to Pregame.com. Oddsmakers have reacted by taking Memphis down from a 4.5-point underdog on the opener to the current price.

Over/Under

PASS with a slight “lean” to the Under 234.5 (-115) since I have no real handicap on the Grizzlies-Trail Blazers total.

For what it’s worth, there appears to be “reverse line movement” in the betting market with a majority of the action being on the Over but the total has ticked down from the 235.5-point opener, according to Pregame.com.

However, these teams have a combined 5-1 O/U record thus far but the NBA has a league-wide 22-32 O/U since the start of the season, primarily because of the new officiating deterring unnatural offensive moves.

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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Miami Heat at Brooklyn Nets odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Wednesday’s Miami Heat at Brooklyn Nets odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Miami Heat (2-1) take on the Brooklyn Nets (2-2) Wednesday at the Barclays Center with tip scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Heat vs. Nets odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Miami avenged its first loss of the season (102-91 to the Indiana Pacers this past weekend) to trounce the Orlando Magic 107-90 Monday. Through three games, the Heat have the highest net rating and the third-highest rebounding rate in the Association.

Brooklyn has alternated between wins/covers and losses/non-covers in its first four games with the latest being a 104-90 over the Washington Wizards Monday. However, the Nets rank 24th in net rating and 22nd in effective field goal shooting (eFG%) thus far.

The Nets won two of three regular-season meetings with the Heat last season, but Miami covered two of three and the Under was 2-1 in those contests. Also, Miami wing SG Jimmy Butler didn’t play in any of the three Heat-Nets meetings last year while SF Kevin Durant played in all of them.

Heat 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 2:20 p.m. ET.

Money line: Heat +133 (bet $100 to win $133) | Nets -165 (bet $165 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Heat +3.5 (-107) | Nets -3.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 217.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Heat at Nets key injuries

Heat

SG Victor Oladipo (quadriceps) out

Nets

PG Kyrie Irving (personal) out

Heat at Nets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Heat 108, Nets 106

Money line

PASS with a slight “lean” to the Heat (+133) because I’m on Miami plus the points in this spot and generally will sprinkle on an underdog’s money line when betting them to cover.

That said, I’d need the Heat’s money line to be priced north of +150 for me to take a stab since I see more value in the Under than Miami outright.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the HEAT +3.5 (-107) because there’s “sharp line movement” toward Miami and the ramped-up physicality in these games helps out the Heat more than the Nets. For instance, this game opened with Miami getting 5 points but has been steamed down since.

On top of that, the NBA tweaked things this offseason when it enacted a policy to officiate unnatural offensive moves out of the game.

Now, both teams have players that benefited greatly from drawing weak fouls in previous seasons, but Miami has a more physical roster to start with.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the UNDER 217.5 (-108) because neither team has shot well from the field to start the year or attacking the basket.

According to CleaningTheGlass.com, Brooklyn is 26th in percentage of shots at the rim and fifth in mid-range field goal volume.

While Miami is 27th in attempts at the rim and first in mid-range field goal volume. However, the Nets are ninth in defensive field goal shooting in the mid-range and the Heat are fourth.

The reason I only “LEAN” to the UNDER 217.5 (-108) is that we are getting to the party late.

According to Pregame.com, this Heat-Nets game opened with a 222.5-point total but has been dragged down to the current price. So, while the Under is the sharp play, we are getting the worst of the number.

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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