NBA money line against the spread ATS Over Under OU total – Page 291

Charlotte Hornets at Milwaukee Bucks odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Wednesday’s Charlotte Hornets at Milwaukee Bucks odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The red-hot Milwaukee Bucks (13-8) host the Charlotte Hornets (13-10) Wednesday at the Fiserv Forum for an 8 p.m. ET tip-off. Below, we look at the Hornets vs. Bucks odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

Charlotte has lost back-to-back road games to the Houston Rockets and Chicago Bulls following a three-game winning streak. The Hornets are 12-11 ATS and 13-10 O/U with the 16th-ranked net rating.

Milwaukee has won seven straight games since two-time All-Star wing Khris Middleton returned from injury. Over that span, the Bucks have the best net rating, best rebounding rate and best defensive efficiency. The Bucks are 10-11 ATS and 7-14 O/U with the seventh-best net rating.

The Hornets were 2-1 overall and ATS last season vs. the Bucks and the Over was 2-1 in those contests.

Hornets at Bucks odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 8 a.m. ET.

Money line: Hornets +310 (bet $100 to win $310) | Bucks -410 (bet $410 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Hornets +8.5 (-120) | Bucks -8.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 229.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Hornets at Bucks key injuries

Hornets

SF Cody Martin (illness) out
C Mason Plumlee (calf) out

Bucks

C Brook Lopez (back) out
SG Donte DiVincenzo (ankle) out

Hornets at Bucks odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bucks 122, Hornets 110

Money line

PASS since Milwaukee is the right side, but the Bucks (-410) is out of my price range for an NBA regular-season favorite. Also, the Hornets are 3-7 overall as a road underdog with a minus-7.6 margin of victory.

Against the spread

BET the BUCKS -8.5 (-105) because Charlotte’s defense is awful, Milwaukee puts up 120-plus points and I don’t think the Hornets can keep up.

Furthermore, the Bucks crush bad defenses: Milwaukee is 4-1 overall with the second-highest efficiency differential and a plus-5.1 ATS margin vs. teams in the bottom-10 defenses (according to CleaningTheGlass.com).

Last year, the Bucks were just as dominant vs. bad defenses: Milwaukee was 18-5 overall with the second-best efficiency differential and plus-2.1 ATS margin.

On the other hand, the Hornets struggle vs. elite defenses: Charlotte is 3-6 overall with a minus-3.9 efficiency differential and a minus-2.7 ATS margin vs. teams in the top-10 of defensive efficiency.

Also, Milwaukee plays the third-highest volume of isolation basketball, and Charlotte has the fifth-worst defensive efficiency vs. isolation offense. The Bucks running their offense through Giannis Antetokounmpo and Middleton opens up looks for Milwaukee’s 3-point specialists.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the OVER 229.5 (-112) for a small wager if at all because, including all the previous analysis, Charlotte plays matador defense but can exploit Milwaukee’s mediocre transition defense.

The Hornets get out in transition at the highest frequency in the league and score the fifth-most fast-break points per game while the Bucks have the seventh-worst defensive efficiency in transition.

However, both teams like to push the pace, and I think the Bucks will engage the Hornets in a back-and-forth shootout because why not? Milwaukee ultimately can get stops when it needs to whereas Charlotte cannot stop a nosebleed.

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 Portland Trail Blazers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Detroit Pistons at Portland Trail Blazers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Detroit Pistons (4-16) travel to Moda Center Tuesday to take on the Portland Trail Blazers (10-11). Tip-off is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Pistons vs. Trail Blazers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Led by No. 1 overall pick Cade Cunningham and star forward Jerami Grant, the Pistons have gone 10-10 against the spread (ATS).

Cunningham has stepped his game up lately, and the Pistons as a whole have improved their shooting. They rank 28th in offensive rating and 22nd in defensive rating.

They’ll be taking on the Blazers, a team that’s struggling to cover the spread. Portland has been overrated by the public which has led to an 8-12-1 ATS record.

Damian Lillard is having one of the worst seasons of his career by efficiency standards. CJ McCollum and Jusuf Nurkic both play large roles for this team, one currently sitting in 10th place in the Western Conference.

Pistons 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 11:57 a.m. ET.

Money line: Pistons +360 (bet $100 to win $360) | Trail Blazers -500 (bet $500 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Pistons +9.5 (-115) | Trail Blazers -9.5 (-107)
Over/Under (O/U): 215.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Pistons at Trail Blazers key injuries

Pistons

F Kelly Olynyk (knee) out

Trail Blazers

SG Norman Powell (quadriceps) questionable

Pistons at Trail Blazers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Trail Blazers 110, Pistons 107

Money line

PASS on the money line although the Pistons at +360 is intriguing, to say the least. I’d still look towards the points for value though.

Against the spread

BET on the PISTONS +9.5 (-115) as the Pistons have been underrated by the market all season, which is one reason for their solid ATS record.

The Pistons have the 29th-best net rating in the league, but the Blazers haven’t been that much better, 20th overall, so the difference isn’t as wide as their record indicates.

The Pistons have been so bad because of their second-worst true shooting percentage. However, the Blazers allow the second-worst field goal shooting, meaning the Pistons should get good looks.

Although I expect a Blazers win, their poor defending should allow the Pistons open looks and, because of that, a close game.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the OVER 215.5 (-115) as both teams don’t know how to defend. On the season, the Blazers and Pistons respectively rank 29th and 30th in opponents’ field goal shooting.

While both are in the middle of the pack in terms of pace, the open looks should generate enough points. Neither team turns the ball over a ton nor relies on offensive boards for their offensive scoring.

The open looks should be enough to get each side the points they need. Given how the teams score and how they defend, I’d lean the Over.

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 Brooklyn Nets odds, picks and prediction

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

The New York Knicks (11-9) take a short commute to Barclays Center for a 7:30 p.m. ET game against the Brooklyn Nets (14-6) Tuesday. Below, we look at the Knicks vs. Nets odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

New York has alternated between winning and losing over its last eight games (3-5 ATS) with the latest being a 99-90 victory Saturday at the Atlanta Hawks. The Knicks are 9-11 ATS and 7-13 O/U with the 17th-best net rating (minus-0.2).

Brooklyn had its four-game win streak snapped Saturday in a 113-107 home loss to the Phoenix Suns. The Nets are 9-11 ATS and 9-11 O/U with the sixth-best net rating (plus-4.0).

The Nets beat the Knicks in all three regular-season meetings last year but New York covered two of those contests and the Over cashed in each game. Also, the Knicks have covered in six of their last seven meetings with the Nets.

Knicks 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 11:57 a.m. ET.

Money line: Knicks +210 (bet $100 to win $210) | Nets -270 (bet $270 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Knicks +6.5 (-115) | Nets -6.5 (-107)
Over/Under (O/U): 216.5 (O: -107 | U: -115)

Knicks at Nets key injuries

Knicks

PG Derrick Rose (ankle) questionable
SF RJ Barrett (illness) questionable
C Taj Gibson (groin) questionable
C Nerlens Noel (knee) questionable

Nets

SG Joe Harris (ankle) out
C Nicolas Claxton (illness) out

Knicks at Nets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Nets 106, Knicks 103

Money line

PASS with a slight “lean” towards the Knicks (+210) because it’s a fat payout and I like New York getting the points in this game.

However, Brooklyn has a much better clutch net rating and if Knicks-Nets comes down to the final possessions, which it should, then it’s hard to not side with F Kevin Durant in this one.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the KNICKS +6.5 (-115) for a half-unit because most of the market is on the Nets but I don’t see 6.5 points worth of difference between the current versions of these teams. Also, the Knicks have played much better on the road than the Nets have at home.

New York is 6-3 overall on the road with the fifth-best efficiency differential and fifth-best ATS margin, according to CleaningTheGlass.com. Whereas Brooklyn is 6-4 with the 17th-ranked efficiency differential and 25th-best ATS margin at home.

My hesitation with the Knicks +6.5 (-112) in this spot is New York is going through lineup changes and is still figuring out its best rotations. Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau announced Monday that PG Kemba Walker is no longer in the rotation and SG Alec Burks will take over as the starter.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 216.5 (-115), which is my favorite play in this contest.

First of all, the Under has been hit by “sharp line movement” as the Knicks-Nets opened with a 217-point total and has been lowered despite more action being on the Over, according to the Yahoo! Sports App.

New York does a good job defending what Brooklyn does often. The Nets play a lot of isolation basketball and attempt a bunch of mid-range jumpers, but the Knicks have the seventh-best defensive efficiency vs. isolation offense and sixth-best defensive field goal percentage vs. mid-range shots per CleaningTheGlass.com.

On top of that, Brooklyn’s defense is underrated. The Nets have the best effective field goal shooting allowed and the eighth-best defensive rating.

Essentially, I’m expecting a rock-fight between two teams that play a lot of isolation basketball and have a combined 16-24 O/U record this year. Plus there might be value in zagging on the trend of all three Knicks-Nets games last season going Over the total.

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 Phoenix Suns odds, picks and prediction

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

The top two teams in the Western Conference meet Tuesday when the Golden State Warriors (18-2) face the Phoenix Suns (17-3) at Footprint Center. Tip-off is set for 10 p.m. ET Below, we look at the Warriors vs. Suns odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

Golden State has won 14 of its last 15 games and seven straight, which includes three consecutive double-digit blowouts over playoff teams from last year. The Warriors are 15-4-1 ATS and 6-14 O/U with the best net rating (plus-13.6).

Phoenix has won 16 games in a row with the last two being road victories over both New York basketball teams. The Suns are 11-9 ATS and 9-11 O/U with the third-best net rating.

These teams split last year’s season series 1-1 with the home team winning and covering both games and either side of the total cashing. However, G Steph Curry only suited up for the game Golden State beat Phoenix.

Warriors at Suns odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 11:12 a.m. ET.

Money line: Warriors +110 (bet $100 to win $110) | Suns -135 (bet $135 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Warriors +2.5 (-112) | Suns -2.5 (-108)
Over/Under (O/U): 221.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Warriors at Suns key injuries

Warriors

SF Andre Iguodala (hip) out
SG Klay Thompson (knee) out
C James Wiseman (knee) out

Suns

Nothing affecting gambling odds.

Warriors at Suns odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Suns 116, Warriors 111

Money line

BET the SUNS (-135) since they are playing on their home floor and Phoenix has much better ball security.

For instance, G Chris Paul is a consummate floor general and the Suns are eighth in turnover rate. Poor ball security plays right into CP3’s strengths. Paul will be able to dictate the pace of this game and get his players into advantageous positions.

CP3 has also been one of the better defenders of Curry historically. Curry hasn’t scored 30 points in his last nine games against CP3 and has been held below 44.4% shooting in six of those games.

Golden State can get a little clumsy with all of its off-the-ball movement and the Warriors have the fourth-worst turnover rate in the Association. Also, Golden State is 24th in points off of turnovers allowed per game.

Both teams also get out in transition at a top-eight frequency but Phoenix has better offensive and defensive efficiency in transition.

BET 1.25 units on the SUNS (-135).

Against the spread

PASS since Phoenix’s money line is only 27 cents on the dollar more expensive than the Suns -2.5 (-108). I’m confident enough that Phoenix will win outright and don’t want to fuss with the points.

For what it’s worth, according to Pregame.com and the Yahoo! Sports App, the Warriors are getting nearly 90% of the action. So, there’s a “fade the market” angle in betting the Suns.

Over/Under

Slight “LEAN” to the OVER 221.5 (-112) for a small wager — if at all — because I much prefer the Phoenix side more than the total in this contest. That said, both teams rank in the top-three of effective field goal shooting and like to push the pace.

My concern with the betting the Over in this game is a vast majority of the market is taking the Over and I could see CP3 slowing this game down to keep the Warriors out of rhythm.

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 Toronto Raptors odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Memphis Grizzlies at Toronto Raptors odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Memphis Grizzlies (10-10) travel to Scotiabank Arena Tuesday to take on the Toronto Raptors (9-12). Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Grizzlies vs. Raptors odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Grizzlies’ offensive upside will be drastically limited as they’ll be without star guard Ja Morant in this one. Memphis is 11-9 against the spread (ATS) so far this season.

The Grizzlies enter as underdogs on the road against a talented Raptors team despite having the better record. However, Toronto has actually been worse at home than on the road so far this year.

The Raps are one of the worst teams against the spread at just 8-13. They’re 2-7 at home and 7-5 on the road but they enter as favorites given the absence of Morant.

Grizzlies 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 10:44 a.m. ET.

Money line: Grizzlies +133 (bet $100 to win $133) | Raptors -165 (bet $165 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Grizzlies +3.5 (-107) | Raptors -3.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 215.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Grizzlies at Raptors key injuries

Raptors

F OG Anunoby (hip) out
G Gary Trent Jr. (calf) questionable
C Khem Birch (knee) out

Grizzlies

G Ja Morant (knee) out

Grizzlies at Raptors odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Raptors 112, Grizzlies 106

Money line

PASS on the money line with a slight lean to the Raptors (-165). Given their home struggles and a mere 3-point spread, I’d pass here and look towards the points.

Around -135 is where I’d consider this money line good value for Toronto. On the other side, I can’t trust the Grizzlies without their star.

Against the spread

BET on the RAPTORS -3.5 (-115) as they should be able to put up more of a fight than Sacramento.

The Griz ran over the Sacramento Kings Sunday after losing by 32 to the Atlanta Hawks Friday with Morant sidelined. However, the Raptors have length and talent with G Fred VanVleet, F Scottie Barnes and big Pascal Siakam all in their starting lineup.

They have the 10th-best offensive rating and 24th-worst defensive rating. Not having Morant will doom the Griz in this one as the explosive guard could’ve exposed a weak Raptors defense.

The Grizzlies are much the same way — a strong offensive team and a lacking defensive side. However, their offense will far from as strong without Morant, and I expect them to struggle from the field. The Raptors, at home, are the better play here.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the OVER 215.5 (-115) as, despite Morant’s absence, the Grizzlies should still be able to get points on the board.

The Raptors and Grizzlies rank first and second, respectively, in offensive rebounding rate yet 28th and 19th, respectively, in defensive rebounding rate. That’s cause for chaos.

With the Grizzlies likely to still push the pace behind projected starting PG De’Anthony Melton along the plethora of opportunities on the glass, the Over should be 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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Los Angeles Lakers at Sacramento Kings odds, picks and prediction

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

The Los Angeles Lakers (11-11) end the month on the road after a couple of home games when they face the Sacramento Kings (8-13) Tuesday. Tip-off is 10 p.m. ET at Golden 1 Center. Below, we look at the Lakers vs. Kings odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Lakers are 3-5 on the road this season. They have alternated losses and wins in their last six games and are coming off a 110-106 home win over the Detroit Pistons Sunday. F LeBron James had 33 points and nine assists in the win and G Russell Westbrook also had nine assists to go with 25 points.

The Kings have three straight games against Los Angeles teams starting with the Lakers tonight, followed by two against the Clippers. They suffered a 128-101 road loss to the Memphis Grizzlies Sunday but won the two games prior. They have six players scoring in double digits this season, led by G De’Aaron Fox, who averages 20.2 points per game.

Lakers at Kings odds, spread and lines

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

Money line: Lakers -190 (bet $190 to win $100) | Kings +155 (bet $100 to win $155)
Against the spread (ATS): Lakers -4.5 (-112) | Kings +4.5 (-108)
Over/Under (O/U): 225.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Lakers at Kings key injuries

Lakers

F Trevor Ariza (ankle) out
F Amthony Davis (head) probable
F LeBron James (abdomen) questionable
G Avery Bradley (hand) questionable
G Kendrick Nunn (knee) out

Kings

F Harrison Barnes (foot) doubtful
F Maurice Harkless (knee) questionable

Lakers at Kings odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Kings 120, Lakers 115

Money line

The two teams met just four days ago in Los Angeles and went to triple overtime and the Kings came away with a 141-137 win. Barnes missed that game.

The Kings have struggled at home to the tune of a 3-7 record in their first 10 games at Golden 1 Center.

The Lakers have alternated wins and losses the last six games and won their last game.

Take the KINGS (+155).

Against the spread

The Lakers have covered the spread in only one of their last six games. They were 7.5-point favorites in their loss to the Kings and they are the league’s worst team performing against the spread at 7-15.

The Kings aren’t much better at 9-12 ATS but outperform their overall record. They have covered the spread in two of their last three games.

Expecting an outright Kings win, I would certainly take them to cover the spread as underdogs. Take the KINGS +4.5 (-108).

Over/Under

The Lakers lead the NBA with 14 games hitting the Over. Their last three games have gone Over the projected total, as have five of their last six. They are 9-3 O/U in their last 12.

The Kings’ last three games and four of their last five have hit the Over.

Take OVER 225.5 (-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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Cleveland Cavaliers at Dallas Mavericks odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Monday’s Cleveland Cavaliers at Dallas Mavericks odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Cleveland Cavaliers (10-10) stop by American Airlines Center Monday for an 8:30 p.m. ET game against the Dallas Mavericks (10-8). Below, we look at the Cavaliers vs. Mavericks odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

Cleveland snapped its five-game losing skid Saturday with a 105-92 home victory over the Orlando Magic. The Cavs are 13-7 ATS and 7-13 O/U with the 16th-best net rating (plus-0.5).

Dallas has lost four of its past five games (3-2 ATS), which includes a 120-114 loss at home Saturday to the Washington Wizards. The Mavs are 8-10 ATS and 7-10-1 O/U with the 22nd-ranked net rating (minus-1.6).

The Mavs have a six-game winning streak over the Cavs (5-0-1 ATS) and the Over cashed in four of those contests.

Cavaliers 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 2:05 p.m. ET.

Money line: Cavaliers +220 (bet $100 to win $220) | Mavericks -280 (bet $280 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Cavaliers +6.5 (-110) | Mavericks -6.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 210.5 (O: -107 | U: -115)

Cavaliers at Mavericks key injuries

Cavaliers

SF Cedi Osman (back) questionable

Mavericks

PG Jalen Brunson (foot) probable
C Willie Cauley-Stein (illness) questionable

Cavaliers at Mavericks odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Mavericks 108, Cavaliers 105

Money line

PASS on the Cavaliers (+220) since I only “lean” to Cleveland plus the points and don’t see enough value on the underdog to sprinkle on the money line.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the CAVALIERS +6.5 (-110) because Cleveland has a higher net rating, plays very well as a road underdog and there’s “reverse line movement” in Cleveland’s direction.

For instance, the Cavs are 6-2-1 ATS as a road underdog with a plus-8.4 ATS margin whereas the Mavs have the fourth-worst cover rate as a home favorite since the beginning of last year at 13-21 ATS with a minus-4.3 ATS margin.

Furthermore, Dallas opened as a 7-point favorite, and despite getting a vast majority of the action, the Mavs’ spread has been lowered to the current price.

On top of that, Cleveland matches up well stylistically vs. Dallas. The Cavs attempt the fourth-highest volume of shots at the rim and the Mavs are 26th in defensive field goal percentage vs. attempts at the rim, according to CleaningTheGlass.com.

Also, Luka Doncic plays the sixth-highest frequency of isolation offense and Cleveland’s defense ranks seventh in efficiency vs. isolation offense. Plus I think it’s easier for Cleveland’s perimeter defense to stay in front of a slow-paced Dallas offense since the Cavs have a lot of size in their frontcourt.

Over/Under

Slight “LEAN” to the OVER 210.5 (-107) for a tiny wager if at all because the market has steamed the Cavaliers-Mavericks total up from the 205.5-point lookahead number.

This line movement is puzzling because both teams have a below-average offensive rating and are bottom-seven in pace. Yet the total has increased?

I’d be more into betting the Over if we weren’t late to the party. My favorite play is Cleveland plus the points, but there’s value in OVER 210.5 (-107).

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 Orleans Pelicans at Los Angeles Clippers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s New Orleans Pelicans at Los Angeles Clippers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The New Orleans Pelicans (5-17) travel to Staples Center Monday to take on the Los Angeles Clippers (11-9). Tip-off is scheduled for 10:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Pelicans vs. Clippers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Clippers play their third straight game at Staples Center and hope for more luck Monday after losing and failing to cover in a 105-90 defeat to the Golden State Warriors Sunday. Los Angeles is led by star F Paul George and ranks third in points allowed per game with 102.7. The Clippers are 9-11 against the spread (ATS).

The Pelicans are led by F Brandon Ingram and are 9-13 ATS. New Orleans is coming off a 22-point road loss at the Utah Jazz Saturday — just one game after picking up a 98-97 victory at the Jazz Friday.

The Pelicans rank 26th in offensive and defensive rating and 27th in net rating (minus-7.2).

Pelicans 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 1:45 p.m. ET.

Money line: Pelicans +230 (bet $100 to win $230) | Clippers -300 (bet $300 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Pelicans +6.5 (-107) | Clippers -6.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 211.5 (O: -107 | U: -115)

Pelicans at Clippers key injuries

Pelicans

F Zion Williamson (foot) out

Clippers (not officially submitted)

F Kawhi Leonard (knee) out
F Nicolas Batum (health and safety protocols) out

Pelicans at Clippers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Clippers 109, Pelicans 101

Money line

PASS on the money line.

While the Clippers are an enticing play, at -300, there’s just no value. The Pelicans are 2-10 on the road and likely won’t come out on top in this one so the +230 side is not great a smart gamble.

Against the spread

BET on the CLIPPERS -6.5 (-115) as they’re coming off an embarrassing loss and should be primed for a bounce-back game.

The Clippers are just too good defensively and are coming off giving up just 105 points to the most efficient offense in the league. L.A. should also have more success offensively against a weak Pelicans team than it did Saturday.

That’s going to be the difference in this game. The Pelicans also have the fifth-worst turnover rate while the Clippers force the seventh-most turnovers. That should play a huge factor.

The difference in defensive play is going to be what helps the Clippers cover here.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the UNDER 211.5 (-115) as the better side of the total. The aforementioned turnover issue for New Orleans could come back to bite the Pelicans.

Despite having a high offensive rebounding rate New Orleans is in the bottom five in true shooting percentage. It just doesn’t get the job done offensively, either from the free-throw line or behind the arc.

New Orleans also ranked 18th in pace. With that in mind, I don’t expect them to score much. Both teams have missed 100 points in three of their last five games.

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 Miami Heat odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Denver Nuggets at Miami Heat odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Denver Nuggets (9-10) travel to FTX Arena Monday to take on the Miami Heat (13-7). Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Nuggets vs. Heat odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

All eyes will be on this rematch following the C Nikola Jokic ejection and ensuing escalation by F Jimmy Butler coupled with the Jokic brothers’ Twitter threat.

Jokic, the league’s reigning MVP, helped demolish Miami 113-96 when the teams met Nov. 8.

The Nuggets have been relatively disappointing, ranking 20th in the NBA in net rating (minus-1.1). Denver has the league’s second-worst ATS record at 7-12.

The Heat are 13-7 ATS, the fourth-best in the league and also have the fourth-best defensive rating and fourth-best net rating (plus-6.1). Miami is currently second in the Eastern Conference.

Nuggets at Heat odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:25 p.m. ET.

Money line: Nuggets +260 (bet $100 to win $260) | Heat -340 (bet $340 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Nuggets +7.5 (-122) | Heat -7.5 (-102)
Over/Under (O/U): 208.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Nuggets at Heat key injuries

Nuggets

C Nikola Jokic (wrist) questionable
G Jamal Murray (knee) out
F Michael Porter Jr. (back) out

Home

F Jimmy Butler (tail bone) questionable
G Tyler Herro (body soreness) questionable
G Victor Oladipo (knee) out
F Markieff Morris (neck) out

Nuggets at Heat odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Heat 112, Nuggets 101

Money line

PASS on the money line. The Nuggets were in the Western Conference Semifinals a year ago and have talent at all levels, making Miami’s -340 too risky, especially for a regular-season game.

Denver could be without Jokic and will be without Murray and Porter Jr., and regardless, the Heat will be ready and likely view this as a revenge game which makes the +260 on Denver a bad value as well.

Against the spread

BET on the HEAT -7.5 (-102) as they’ve been the far better team this season. It also seems like Herro and Butler are more likely to play than Jokic.

With two of Denver’s best three players out, if Jokic sits, the Nuggets will be in big trouble. The Heat already have the fourth-best defensive rating and they thrive off offensive rebounds as well.

While Denver should be able to limit those (6th best defensive rebounding rate), it shouldn’t matter as Miami ranks sixth in true shooting rate. Center Bam Adebayo will be the real difference-maker and should feast if Jokic misses.

The All-NBA defender should also limit the MVP if Jokic does play. Miami has the greater upside regardless and should want to put a beating on Jokic and the Nuggets after their first meeting.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the OVER 208.5 (-112) as the better side.

Denver has still hit 105 points twice despite Jokic not playing in its last four games, and it’s hit triple digits three times. Their opponents in those four games haven’t scored fewer than 114 points. Jokic is key on both ends of the court.

Denver is the 15th worst defensive team in the NBA and they drop to 28th on the road. I expect Miami to be able to put up points.

Considering Denver’s continued offensive competence and lacking defensive competence without Jokic, I’d play the Over here. If the elite big man suits up the Over is still 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.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

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Charlotte Hornets at Chicago Bulls odds, picks and prediction

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

The Chicago Bulls (13-8) host the Charlotte Hornets (13-9) Monday at United Center for an 8 p.m. ET tip-off. Below, we look at the Hornets vs. Bulls odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

Charlotte had a three-game winning streak snapped after a 146-143 overtime loss at the lowly Houston Rockets Saturday. The Hornets are 12-10 ATS and 12-10 O/U with the 15th-best net rating (plus-0.5).

Chicago lost three of four including its more recent outing 107-104 to the Miami Heat at home. The Bulls are 13-8 ATS and 9-12 O/U with the fifth-best net rating (plus-6.8).

The Bulls beat the Hornets in all three regular-season meetings last season (3-0 ATS) and the Under was 2-1 in those contests.

Hornets 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 11:20 a.m. ET.

Money line: Hornets +175 (bet $100 to win $175) | Bulls -220 (bet $220 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Hornets +5.5 (-112) | Bulls -5.5 (-108)
Over/Under (O/U): 224.5 (O: -107 | U: -115)

Hornets at Bulls key injuries

Kings

C Mason Plumlee (calf) out

Bulls

PF Patrick Williams (wrist) out

Hornets at Bulls odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bulls 118, Hornets 110

Money line

PASS on picking an outright winner in the Battle of the Balls because I think Hornets-Bulls comes down to a couple of key late possessions, but Chicago will ultimately win.

The Bulls have a plus-4.0 net rating in the clutch, while the Hornets are minus-1.0 (the last five minutes of the game and the scoring margin is within five points). Also, Charlotte is missing much-needed size since Chicago big Nikola Vucevic is a top-10 offensive center in the NBA.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the BULLS -5.5 (-108) since there’s a “sharp line move” in Chicago’s direction and a “Pros vs. Joe’s” split in the betting market.

According to both Pregame.com and the Yahoo! Sports App, there have been more bets placed on the Hornets, but more money has been wagered on the Bulls. Oddsmakers have reacted by increasing Chicago’s spread up from the 5-point opening number.

There’s an assumption by the market that the Hornets are young, feisty road underdogs. However, since the beginning of last season, Charlotte is 14-24 ATS as a road underdog with a minus-8.2 scoring margin.

Also, Charlotte likes to get out in transition and that could backfire. The Hornets play the highest frequency of transition offense in the NBA, but the Bulls have the highest transition offense efficiency.

I cannot fully get there on Chicago laying the points because I think this will be a back-and-forth game between two young teams trending upwards.

Over/Under

BET OVER 224.5 (-107) since the market is hammering the Under and has steamed the total down from the 225-point opener.

The sibling-dynamic of Hornets’ LaMelo Ball vs. the Bulls’ Lonzo Ball will produce a fun, up-and-down game. Not only are both above-average starting point guards, but each also fits their teams perfectly.

LaMelo pushes the pace and helps get odd-man fastbreaks or open transition 3-pointers for teammates. Lonzo is a new-age floor general that feeds his All-Star-caliber wings Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan.

The bottom line is I see both offenses executing and hoops fans being treated to an awesome game.

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

Follow Geoff Clark on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

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