Tag: NBA betting tips

Denver Nuggets at Dallas Mavericks odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Wednesday’s Denver Nuggets at Dallas Mavericks sports betting odds, with NBA matchup analysis and picks.

The Denver Nuggets (43-21) visit the Big D on Wednesday for an 8 p.m. ET tip-off against the Dallas Mavericks (39-27) at the American Airlines Center. We analyze the Nuggets-Mavericks odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.

Place a legal sports bet on this NBA action or other games at BetMGM.

Mavericks at Nuggets: Key injuries

Mavericks

  • PF Kristaps Porzingis (knee) out
  • SG Seth Curry (ankle) out
  • SF Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (illness) probable
  • C Willie Cauley-Stein (illness) probable
  • PG Jalen Brunson (shoulder) out
  • PF Dwight Powell (Achilles) out

Nuggets

  •  C Bol Bol (foot) out

Mavericks at Nuggets: Odds, lines, picks and betting tips

NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated Wednesday at 2:45 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Nuggets 122, Mavericks 104

Moneyline (ML)

These teams have played twice already this season and each game has been decided by a possession with the Nuggets the most recent meeting, 107-106, Jan. 8. The Mavericks were without defensive anchor, Kristaps Porzingis, and Nikola Jokic took advantage to the tune of 33 points on 12-of-20 shooting. That’s a bad sign for Dallas with Porzingis out again Wednesday. In their first meeting Oct. 29, Dallas had nine players score double figures (none more than 14) en route to a 109-106 victory in Denver.

The Nuggets are far healthier at the moment — no one from the Nuggets’ regular rotation is out — and beside the injuries above, the Mavericks have seen Luka Doncic miss games recently. Denver gives up the fourth-fewest points per game to point guards and Doncic has scored 21.5 PPG in four career games against the Nuggets. Doncic has needed to work for his 20+ points, shooting just .392 from the field and .200 from 3-point land against Denver.

I LIKE the NUGGETS -143.

New to sports betting? Bet $143 on the Nuggets -143 and earn a $100 profit if they beat the Mavericks.

Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

Since I like the Nuggets on the moneyline, I’ll LEAN toward the NUGGETS -2.5 (-110). It should be an either-or situation in terms of which bet to play; I don’t think you should bet both the moneyline and spread.

Anywho, somehow Dallas is worse ATS at home versus winning teams (3-9) then Denver is on the road against winning teams (5-7-1). The Mavericks lost straight up and against the spread in both games they were home dogs in but the Nuggets is only 7-10-1 ATS as a road favorite this season. The standout trend for me in the Mavericks-Nuggets matchup is Denver’s 6-3 ATS record when laying 1-2.5 points and Dallas’ 1-5 ATS mark when getting that many points. 

Over/Under (O/U)

Denver likes to slow the game down and play through their All-Star big man, Jokic. The Nuggets are ranked 29th in pace of play, which is the main reason their offense is ranked just 20th in points per game. However, they are seventh in offensive rating and sixth in field-goal percentage, and I think they’ll execute against the Mavericks, pushing the game OVER 220.5 (-106).

Want some action on this game? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips and advice, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @Geoffery_Clark and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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New Orleans Pelicans at Sacramento Kings odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Wednesday’s Pelicans at Kings sports betting odds, with NBA matchup analysis and picks.

The Sacramento Kings (28-36) continue their four-game homestand Wednesday night. They host the New Orleans Pelicans (28-36), playing the second game of a four-game road trip. Tipoff is at 10:30 p.m. Wednesday night at Golden 1 Center.

We analyze the Pelicans-Kings odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.

Place a legal sports bet on this NBA action or other games at BetMGM.

Pelicans at Kings: Key injuries

Pelicans

  • G Nickeil Alexander-Walker (wrist) out
  • F Darius Miller (achilles) out
  • G J.J. Redick (hamstring) out
  • SG Kenrich Williams (back) probable

Kings

  • F Jabari Parker (illness) probable
  • F Marvin Bagley III (foot) out
  • G Justin James (knee) out

Pelicans at Kings: Odds, lines, picks and betting tips

NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated Wednesday at 12:45 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Pelicans 122, Kings 118

Moneyline (ML)

Both teams have identical records but the Pelicans enter the game as favorites at -121, although the Kings are even money at +100. The Kings have won seven of their last 10 overall, while New Orleans has gone 5-5. Sacramento is 14-17 at home this season, while the Pelicans are 15-17 on the road. New Orleans has been money as road favorites. They are 7-1 this season when favored on the road. The Kings are 8-9 as home dogs.

Take the Pelicans to win this game at -121.

New to sports betting? A $1.21 wager on the Pelicans returns a profit of $10.

Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

The Pelicans are slight favorites at -1.5 (-110). They have been solid on the road overall going 17-13-2 ATS away from home. That improves to 7-1 ATS as road favorites. The Kings are 12-17-2 ATS overall at home but 8-7-2 ATS as home dogs. They are 7-2-1 ATS over their last 10 games. The Pelicans have covered the spread in each of their last three games.

New Orleans’ ATS record as road favorites is too good to ignore. Take the Pelicans -1.5 (-110).

Over/Under (O/U)

The total is set at 233.5 points Wednesday night. The two teams played earlier this season and combined for 232 points in a win by the Pelicans. Sacramento’s games have gone Over in four straight games. New Orleans’ games have gone Under in their last two games and in five of eight. But the Kings are 17-14 O/U at home and the Pelicans are 18-14 O/U on the road. Expect a lot of points and hit the OVER 233.5 (-106) in this game.

Want some action on this game? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips and advice, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @senorjessroot and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Charlotte Hornets at Miami Heat odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Wednesday’s Charlotte Hornets at Miami Heat sports betting odds and lines, with NBA betting picks, tips and best bets.

The Charlotte Hornets (22-42) visit the Miami Heat (41-23) Wednesday at AmericanAirlines Arena for a 7:30 p.m. ET tip-off. We analyze the Hornets-Heat odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.

The Hornets lost at the Atlanta Hawks 143-138 in double overtime Monday and have dropped four of their last five. The Heat are 5-1 in their last six after a 100-89 win at the Washington Wizards Sunday.

Wednesday will be the second of four Charlotte-Miami games this season. The Heat covered as 10.5-point favorites in the first contest, cruising to a 117-100 home victory – the O/U was 212.

Get some action on this game or others by placing a bet at BetMGM.

Hornets at Heat: Key injuries or suspensions

Hornets

  • G Malik Monk (suspension) out

Heat

  • F Jimmy Butler (toe) questionable
  • F Jae Crowder (concussion) probable
  • F Udonis Haslem (illness) questionable
  • G Tyler Herro (ankle) questionable
  • C Meyers Leonard (ankle) out
  • G Kendrick Nunn (illness) questionable

Hornets at Heat: Odds, lines, picks and betting tips

NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated at 12:00 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Heat 114, Hornets 107

Moneyline (ML)

PASS. While Miami (-556) owns the league’s third-best home record at 27-4, the price is way too high. Every $5.66 wagered on the Heat moneyline profits only $1 if they win. That’s too much chalk to risk. Charlotte (+400) offers a tempting 4-to-1 payoff if it wins, but Miami is just too good at home. I’ll PASS and focus on the spread and total below.

Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

The HORNETS (+10.5, –115) are worth a small play – even if Butler dresses for the Heat (-10.5, -106). Miami is an impressive 17-9-1 as a home favorite, but Charlotte is on a hot streak ATS, going 6-0-1 in its last seven – the push coming in its last game, the OT loss at Atlanta. I’m only going small because the Hornets are 2-8-1 ATS in their last 11 versus the Heat and 1-4-1 ATS in their last six in Miami.

New to sports betting? Every $1.15 wagered on the Hornets’ spread will profit $1 if they win outright (unlikely) or don’t lose by 10 or more points.

Over/Under (O/U)

The OVER 211.5 (-106) is the STRONGEST PLAY as long as Butler plays. The Heat are 6-1 O/U in their last seven at home, 19-7 O/U in their last 26 at home and 7-1 O/U in their last eight games as a favorite. The O/U is also 13-6 in the last 19 head-to-head meetings in South Beach.

Want some action on this game? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips and advice, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Johnny’s record since Feb. 1: 18-9. Strongest plays: 10-4.

Since Dec. 1: 55-34-2. Strongest plays: 31-13.

Follow @JohnnyParlay11 and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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New York Knicks at Washington Wizards odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Tuesday’s New York Knicks at Washington Wizards sports betting odds, with NBA matchup analysis and picks.

The New York Knicks (20-44) visit the nation’s capital Tuesday for a 7 p.m. ET tip-off against the Washington Wizards (23-40) at Capital One Arena. We analyze the Knicks-Wizards odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.

Place a legal sports bet on this NBA action or other games at BetMGM.

Knicks at Wizards: Key injuries

Knicks

  • C Mitchell Robinson (illness) questionable
  • PG Dennis Smith Jr. (concussion) probable

Wizards

  • SF Isaac Bonga (groin) questionable
  • C Anzejs Pasecniks (neck) questionable
  • SG Jerome Robinson (Achilles) questionable
  • PG Ish Smith (hamstring) out
  • PG John Wall (Achilles) out

Knicks at Wizards: Odds, lines, picks and betting tips

NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated at 3 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Wizards 109, Knicks 107

Moneyline (ML)

The Wizards (-189) hold a 2-1 season-series lead over the Knicks (+155). Washington pasted New York in Madison Square Garden last month 114-96, thanks to a typical 30-point performance from Bradley Beal. The shooting guard had a streak of 21 consecutive 26-point games snapped Sunday in a 100-89 loss to the Miami Heat. In the Knicks’ previous game, they made easy work of an injury-depleted Detroit Pistons 96-84. The victory wrapped up a 3-2 homestead for the Knick. The Wizards are just 6-6 straight up as a home favorite, so their -189 moneyline is out the window, but can the Knicks pull off an upset? Sure, but the Knicks have only five wins in 26 games as a road dog and the +155 isn’t juicy enough to lean, like or love. PASS on the moneyline.

Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

Since both teams stink, we are partially betting for one team and partially against another. The Wizards -4.5 (-106) can score points but are the lowest-ranked defensive rating team in the NBA and give up the most points per game. Also, they are just 2-3 against the spread in their last five games.

Where the KNICKS +4.5 (-115) have a decided edge is in the rebounding matchup. New York has the ninth-best defensive-rebounding percentage and best offensive-rebounding percentage in the NBA, while Washington is 28th in defensive-rebounding percentage and 20th in offensive-rebounding percentage. Additionally, New York has covered four of its previous five games.

I like the KNICKS +4.5 (-115) because they’ll be able to trade buckets with the Wizards and gobble up loose boards.

Over/Under (O/U)

If we like the Knicks plus the points, then the UNDER 227.5 (+100) correlates with that pick. New York has one of the higher Under percentages in the NBA (29-34-1) and plays at a snail’s pace — ranked 24th in Pace of Play. The Under is 7-1 in the last eight Knicks-Wizards meetings and the Under has cashed in the last three games.

Since I generally don’t play totals, I only lean toward the UNDER.

Want some action on this game? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips and advice, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @Geoffery_Clark and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Boston Celtics at Indiana Pacers odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Tuesday’s Boston Celtics at Indiana Pacers sports betting odds and lines, with NBA matchup analysis, picks and best bets.

The Indiana Pacers (39-25) host the Boston Celtics (42-21) Tuesday at Bankers Life Fieldhouse for a 7 p.m. ET tip-off. We analyze the Pacers-Celtics odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.

Place a legal sports bet on this NBA action or other games at BetMGM.

Celtics at Pacers: Key injuries

Celtics

  • SG Jaylen Brown (hamstring) out
  • C Robert Williams III (back) probable

Pacers

  • SF Doug McDermott (toe) doubtful
  • PG Malcolm Brogdon (quadriceps) out
  • SG Victor Oladipo (knee) questionable
  • SG Jeremy Lamb (knee) out

Celtics at Pacers: Odds, lines, picks and betting tips

NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full list. Odds last updated at 1 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Pacers 107, Celtics 102

Moneyline (ML)

The PACERS (+125) have been on a roll since the All-Star break, going 7-2, including an impressive road victory over the Dallas Mavericks in their last game, Sunday. The Celtics (-154) have been on the struggle bus since the break with a 4-5 record and dropping a few games in heartbreaking fashion. Two of Boston’s losses came in overtime and in their last game, against the Oklahoma City Thunder, they gave up a double-digit lead to lose at home, 105-104. Indiana picked up a 122-117 victory against Boston in the first head-to-head meeting, despite a 44-point effort from Celtics PG Kemba Walker.

The reason why the Celtics could lose despite an impressive Walker performance is it appears Jayson Tatum is Boston’s most impactful player—as he goes, the Celtics go. Tatum averages 23.4 points per game this year and when he scores 24 or more points the Celtics are 28-5 this season; however, Tatum hasn’t scored more than 22 points in nine career games against the Pacers and he scored only 16 points in the first Celtics-Pacers game. Indiana is second in the NBA (behind Boston) in opposing small forwards points per game and given its previous success against Tatum, I like PACERS (+125).

New to sports betting? Bet $100 on the Pacers (+125) to earn a profit of $125 if they beat the Celtics.

Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

Generally, I’d stick with the moneyline wager here and not bother taking just 3.5 points however they could come into play in this game. Boston (-3.5, -106) has been great against the spread this season both overall (38-23-2 ATS) and on the road (20-10-1) but not very good in games projected to be close.

The PACERS (+3.5, -115) are the play with a little insurance in the event of a loss. Each team has narrow point differentials since the All-Star break. Indiana is outscoring opponents 106.8-105.6 and Boston’s nine post-All-Star games have an average outcome of 112.3-110.

Over/Under (O/U)

The Over has cashed in six of the last eight Celtics-Pacers games because they are generally lower projected totals from bookmakers. Rightfully so, these teams both rank in the top-10 in opponent PPG, field-goal percentage, 3-point percentage, defensive rating and opponent effective FG%. The first meeting went well Over but that included a 29-point performance from Brogdon (who won’t be playing) and a healthy Brown, who’s a great two-way player. Expect this game to be lower scoring and the UNDER 214.5 (-110) to cash.

Want some action on this game? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips and advice, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @Geoffery_Clark and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Phoenix Suns at Portland Trail Blazers odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Tuesday’s Suns at Blazers sports betting odds, with NBA matchup analysis and picks.

The Portland Trail Blazers (28-37) get a rematch against the Phoenix Suns (26-38). After losing 127-117 to them in Phoenix last week, they host them at the Moda Center Tuesday night. Tip-off is at 10 p.m. ET.

We analyze the Suns-Blazers odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.

Place a legal sports bet on this NBA action or other games at BetMGM.

Suns at Blazers: Key injuries

Suns

  • F Frank Kaminsky (knee) out
  • F Cam Johnson (mononucleosis) out
  • F Kelly Oubre (knee) out
  • C Deandre Ayton (ankle) questionable

Blazers

  • F Zach Collins (shoulder) out
  • F Rodney Hood (Achilles) out
  • C Jusuf Nurkic (leg) out

Suns at Blazers: Odds, lines, picks and betting tips

NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated Tuesday at 12:25 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Blazers 119, Suns 116

Moneyline (ML)

The Suns (+155) have won two straight, beating Portland and the Milwaukee Bucks to close out a six-game homestand. They have been better on the road (13-16) than at home and have beaten Portland in two of three matchups this season, including in their only other game in Portland, a 122-116 win. The Blazers (-189) are 17-14 overall at home but lost their last game against the Sacramento Kings to kick off a six-game homestand. They have been solid as a home favorite against the money line all season, going 15-6 straight up when favored at home, while the Suns are 9-12 as road dogs.

While Phoenix has found some offensive rhythm with C Aron Baynes in the starting lineup while Ayton is out, they have not been consistent enough to make them a solid bet. Take the BLAZERS at -189.

New to sports betting? A $189 wager on Portland returns a profit of $100.

Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

The Blazers are favored at home tonight at -4.5 (-110). Neither team has been a good bet recently to cover. Portland has failed to cover the spread in eight of its last 11 games. The Suns have failed to cover in six of their last 10 although they have won and covered in two straight games in which they were underdogs. Phoenix is 16-13 ATS on the road and 12-9 ATS as road dogs. Portland is 12-17-2 ATS at home and 10-10-1 as home favorites against the spread.

Expect the Suns to keep it close enough for a competitive game. Take the SUNS at +4.5 (-110). 

Over/Under (O/U)

The total for Tuesday’s matchup is set at 232.5 points. The two teams combined for 244 in Phoenix last week and 238 and 221 in their previous games. They have gone Over in two of three games they have played each other. Suns games have gone Over in three in a row and in four of the last five games. Blazers games have also gone over in four of the last five games. The Blazers are 19-12 O/U at home. Expect this game to go OVER (-106) as well.

Want some action on this game? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips and advice, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @senorjessroot and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Dallas Mavericks at San Antonio Spurs odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Tuesday’s Dallas Mavericks at San Antonio Spurs sports betting odds and lines, with NBA betting picks, tips and best bets.

The Dallas Mavericks (39-26) visit the San Antonio Spurs (26-36) Tuesday at AT&T Center for an 8 p.m. ET tip-off. We analyze the Mavericks-Spurs odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.

Both teams lost Sunday. The Mavericks dropped a 112-109 decision at home to the Indiana Pacers, while the Spurs fell 132-129 in overtime at the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Mavs are in seventh in the Western Conference, while the Spurs are five games out of the final playoff spot.

The Mavs eye a 4-0 sweep vs. the Spurs after taking the first three regular-season matchups. Dallas won two at home, covering a 5-point spread in a 117-110 win Nov. 18 and failing to cover an 8-point spread with a 102-98 win Dec. 26. The Mavs covered as 4-point favorites in San Antonio 109-103 Feb. 26. Only the first game in Dallas played to the Over.

Get some action on this game or others by placing a bet at BetMGM.

Mavericks at Spurs: Key injuries

Mavericks

  • PG Jalen Brunson (shoulder) out
  • C Willie Cauley-Stein (illness) out
  • SG Seth Curry (ankle) out
  • SG Luka Doncic (wrist) questionable
  • SF Dorian Finney-Smith (hip) questionable
  • SF Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (illness) out
  • C Dwight Powell (Achilles) out

Spurs

  • PF LaMarcus Aldridge (shoulder) doubtful
  • PG Dejounte Murray (calf) out
  • C Jakob Poeltl (knee) out
  • SG Lonnie Walker IV (shin) questionable

Mavericks at Spurs: Odds, lines, picks and betting tips

NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated at 12:15 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Mavericks 119, Spurs 112

Moneyline (ML)

AVOID. Dallas (-167) is dealing with numerous injuries, but the main one is Doncic, who leads the Mavs with 28.5 points per game. If he plays, the Mavs are a lock to win. If he sits, this could go either way, but I’m PASSING on a moneyline play either way.

New to sports betting? Every $1.67 wagered on the Mavs’ ML would profit $1 if they win, while every $1 wagered on the Spurs ML (+140) would profit $1.40 if the Spurs prevail.

Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

If Doncic plays, the MAVERICKS (-3.5, –115) are the STRONGEST PLAY. The Mavs are 13-3 against the spread in their last 16 trips to San Antonio. Plus, the Spurs are currently on an 0-7 ATS run versus anyone.

Want more? Dallas is 20-9-2 ATS on the road this season and 12-4-1 ATS as a road dog.

Every $1.10 wagered on the Mavericks’ spread will profit $1 if they win by 4 or more points, but make sure Doncic is in the lineup!

Over/Under (O/U)

Because of all the injuries, the OVER 227.5 (-110) is only a small-unit play. The Mavericks rank third in scoring at 116.5 PPG and own the NBA’s second-best O/U record at 40-25. The Spurs are the No. 1 Over team at 38-23-1.

Want some action on this game? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips and advice, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Johnny’s record since Feb. 1: 17-8. Strongest plays: 10-3.

Since Dec. 1: 54-33-2. Strongest plays: 31-12.

Follow @JohnnyParlay11 and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Toronto Raptors at Sacramento Kings odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s Toronto Raptors at Sacramento Kings sports betting odds and lines, with NBA matchup analysis, picks and best bets.

The Sacramento Kings (28-35) host the Toronto Raptors (44-18) in the second game of a back-to-back on Sunday. Tip-off is scheduled for around 9 p.m. ET at Golden 1 Center. We analyze the Raptors-Kings odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.

Place a legal sports bet on this NBA action or other games at BetMGM.

Raptors at Kings: Key injuries

Raptors

  • PG Fred VanVleet (shoulder) questionable
  • C Marc Gasol (hamstring) questionable
  • PF Dewan Hernandez (ankle) out

Kings

  • PF Marvin Bagley III (foot) out

Raptors at Kings: Odds, lines, picks and betting tips

NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated at 5:00 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Raptors 116, Kings 113

Moneyline (ML)

The Raptors (-250) spoiled Stephen Curry’s comeback game for the Golden State Warriors by beating them 121-113 Thursday. Tonight’s game in Sacramento is their fourth game of a five-game Western Conference road trip. The Kings (+200) picked up a huge 123-111 win Saturday at the Portland Trail Blazers. 

Sacramento kept close and covered in their first game against the Raptors Nov. 6, losing 124-120. Each team was close to full health in the first one but Toronto could be without two starters that played in that game (Gasol and VanVleet) while the Kings got breakout C Richaun Holmes back last night against the Trail Blazers. He had 10 point sand eight boards in 19 minutes in his first game back and should be reclaiming the starting center position from Harry Giles within a few games. 

If anything, I’d say bet the Kings (+200) who have won seven of nine games but the Raptors are 15-1 straight up as a road favorite with a 7.4-point average margin of victory. Plus, Toronto’s non-conference record (14-8) is much better than Sacramento’s (8-15). Officially I say PASS ON THE MONEYLINE.

Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

The trends line up nicely for Sacramento versus Toronto. The Raptors are 6-13 against the spread in the last 19 meetings in Sacramento and 1-4 ATS in their last five games overall. Also, Toronto doesn’t take advantage of having a rest advantage on their opponent as they are 3-11 ATS in such situations.

Furthermore, the Kings are 7-2 ATS, with an 8-point ATS margin per game, on the second game of back-to-backs. Sacramento is 4-0 ATS in their last four games as a home underdog and 5-0 ATS in their last five games playing on zero days.

I LIKE KINGS +5.5 (+100) at home. New to sports betting? Bet $100 on Kings +5.5 to earn a $100 profit if they win or lose by fewer than six points.

Over/Under (O/U)

Both teams have played to more Overs than Unders this season—Toronto has a 33-28-1 Over/Under record and Sacramento is 33-30 O/U—and both have increased their scoring after the All-Star break. Sacramento went from 107.9 points per game to 115 PPG and Toronto went from 112.9 PPG to 114.3 PPG. Additionally, they’ve each gone Over the projected total in their last three games entering Sunday’s contest.

I am nervous about the Kings’ ability to score on tired legs—they are playing a fourth game in six nights—so it’s only a slight lean on OVER 226.5 (-110).

Want some action on this game? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips and advice, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @Geoffery_Clark and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Detroit Pistons at New York Knicks odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s Detroit Pistons at New York Knicks sports betting odds and lines, with NBA matchup analysis, picks and best bets.

The Detroit Pistons (20-44) are in the Big Apple Sunday for a 7:30 p.m. ET tip-off against the New York Knicks (19-44) at Madison Square Garden. We analyze the Pistons-Knicks odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.

Place a legal sports bet on this NBA action or other games at BetMGM.

Pistons at Knicks: Key injuries

Pistons

  • PG Brandon Knight (hamstring) questionable
  • PG Derrick Rose (ankle) out
  • SG Luke Kennard (knee) out
  • PF Blake Griffin (knee) out
  • SG Bruce Brown (thumb) available

Knicks

  • PG Frank Ntilikina (ankle) probable
  • PG Dennis Smith Jr. (concussion) questionable

Pistons at Knicks: Odds, lines, picks and betting tips

NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated at 3:40 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Knicks 112, Pistons 104

Moneyline (ML)

Both teams have been pretty dreadful recently. The Knicks (-250) have lost back-to-back games and eight of their past 10, while the Pistons (+200) are on a three-game losing streak and have dropped nine of their past 10 games. New York eked out a 95-92 win in their last meeting in Detroit Feb. 8, but the Pistons smoked them 122-102 back on Nov. 6.

There’s no way anyone should lay -250 on the Knicks even against a Detroit team without three starters due to injury—(including two former All-Stars in Rose and Griffin)—and traded away another former All-Star in Andre Drummond. Also, the Pistons are just 5-20 straight up as a road dog leading me to PASS ON THE MONEYLINE.

Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

Betting either New York or Detroit here is like deciding between the lesser of two evils. The Knicks (-5.5, -115) are a quality team against the spread, going 33-29-1 so far this year. There has been only one game in which New York was favored by more than five points and that was Nov. 18 against the Cleveland Cavaliers. They won 123-105 and covered the 5.5-point spread. with ease

The Pistons (+5.5, -106) are 2-4-1 against the spread when getting 5-7 points. Detroit is 10-14-1 ATS, with a minus-8.3 margin of victory, when they are a road dog and New York is 4-4 ATS as a home favorite. At the moment, New York is a half-game less crappy than Detroit so BET THE KNICKS -5.5 (-115). 

Over/Under (O/U)

Nowadays in the NBA bad basketball is chucking prayers from behind the arc. It used to be slow, ugly, defensive games that would end something like 85-80. In their recent demonstrations of bad basketball, six of the Knicks’ last seven games have gone Over the projected total and the Pistons have a 3-1 Over/Under record in their previous four outings.

Look for one of these two teams to come out firing threes, the other team trying to match them from deep and the game going OVER 210.5 (-110) due to worse defense more than good offense. 

Want some action on this game? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips and advice, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @Geoffery_Clark and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Indiana Pacers at Dallas Mavericks odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s Indiana Pacers at Dallas Mavericks sports betting odds, with NBA matchup analysis and picks.

The Indiana Pacers (38-25) heads to Texas Sunday to play the Dallas Mavericks (39-25) at the American Airlines Center at 7:00 p.m. ET. We analyze the Pacers-Mavericks odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.

Place a legal sports bet on this NBA action or other games at BetMGM.

Pacers at Mavericks: Key injuries

Pacers

  • PG Malcolm Brogdon (hip) out
  • SG Victor Oladipo (leg) questionable
  • SF T.J. Warren (leg) questionable
  • SF Doug McDermott (foot) doubtful
  • SG Jeremy Lamb (knee) out

Mavericks

  • SG Seth Curry (ankle) out
  • PF Dorian Finney-Smith (hip) questionable
  • SG Tim Hardaway Jr. (illness) questionable
  • PG Jalen Brunson (shoulder) out
  • PF Dwight Powell (Achilles) out

Pacers at Mavericks: Odds, lines, picks and betting tips

NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated Sunday at 2:15 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Mavericks 124, Pacers 101

Moneyline (ML)

The Mavericks (-223) trampled the Memphis Grizzlies, 121-96, on Friday. Kristaps Porzingis continued his hot play against Memphis, scoring 26 points and grabbing 11 boards — his fifth straight double-double. The Pacers (+180) bounced back from Wednesday’s 119-100 loss at Milwaukee by beating the Chicago Bulls, 108-102, at home two nights later. Sunday’s game will conclude a five-game road trip for the Pacers. Dallas prevailed in the first meeting of these two clubs, 112-103 at Indiana Feb. 3. And that was despite Luka Doncic sitting out for Dallas and Oladipo playing in his third game back from injury that cost him more than a calendar year.

Given the Pacers’ injury issues, my recommendation is to PASS on the moneyline here. The plus-money line for the playoff-bound Pacers is juicy but they could be without three starters. Betting heavy favorites such as the Mavericks is a bad ROI for the more enthusiastic gambler.

New to sports betting? A $100 bet on the Mavericks to win outright would return a profit of $44.84 if successful. Betting $100 on the Pacers to win outright would return a $180 profit if successful.

Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

Don’t overthink this one and bet MAVERICKS -5.5 (-106). If the Pacers were fully healthy we’d definitely be looking to play them here since there are many favorable Indiana trends. Trends that aren’t so Pacers-friendly:  Indiana is 1-5 ATS in their last six games against Dallas and 1-4 ATS in its last five games as an underdog. 

Over/Under (O/U)

Both teams have shown a propensity to send their games Over the projected total, albeit for different reasons. The Pacers have an O/U record of 33-29-1 this season and I get the feeling that’s mostly due to the public’s perception of Indiana being a slower-paced, defensive team. The Mavericks’ O/U record is 39-25 and that’s because they are one of the better offensive teams in the NBA. They are ranked first in offensive rating, third in points per game and second in 3-pointers attempted per game. Also, the Over is 5-1 in the last six meetings in Dallas and their combined O/U record in non-conference games is 29-19 this season.

BET OVER 217.5.

Want some action on this game? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips and advice, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @Geoffery_Clark and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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