NBA money line against the spread ATS Over Under OU total – Page 293

Toronto Raptors at Golden State Warriors odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Sunday’s Toronto Raptors at Golden State Warriors odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Golden State Warriors (14-2) host the Toronto Raptors (8-9) Sunday at Chase Center for an 8:30 p.m. ET tip-off. Below, we look at the Raptors vs. Nuggets odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

Toronto snapped its three-game losing skid Friday by upsetting the Sacramento Kings 108-89 as 3.5-point road underdogs. The Raptors are 7-10 ATS and 9-8 O/U with the 14th-best net rating in the NBA (plus-0.7).

Golden State has won 10 of its past 11 games including three straight with the latest being a 105-102 road win over the Detroit Pistons without Steph Curry or Draymond Green in the starting 5. The Warriors are 11-4-1 ATS and 5-11 O/U with the best net rating in the Association.

Last season was a throwaway year for both organizations but they did split the season series 1-1 with the “home” team winning and covering each contest. There are quotes around the home because Toronto technically played in Tampa Bay, Florida last season to due the COVID pandemic.

Raptors 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 12:50 p.m. ET.

Money line: Raptors +320 (bet $100 to win $320) | Warriors -420 (bet $420 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Raptors +8.5 (-102) | Warriors -8.5 (-122)
Over/Under (O/U): 217.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Raptors at Warriors key injuries

Raptors

SF OG Anunoby (hip) questionable

Warriors

SF Otto Porter (foot) questionable
SF Andre Iguodala (hip) out

Raptors at Warriors odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Warriors 112, Raptors 107

Money line

PASS even though I “like” Toronto plus the points in this spot and typically I’ll “sprinkle” on an underdog’s money line when betting them to cover.

But, the Warriors are back and the Raptors look like a team competing for a play-in spot based on their results thus far.

Against the spread

BET the RAPTORS +8.5 (-102) for 1 unit because the Warriors can get a little careless with the ball at times and Toronto feasts off turnovers.

For instance, the Raptors average the most points off turnovers per game, whereas the Warriors rank 24th in offensive turnover rate and 22nd in points off of turnovers allowed per game.

Furthermore, this is a “Pros vs. Joe’s” game in the betting market and the Warriors ticked down from 9-point favorites because of the pro-Raptors money.

According to Pregame.com, nearly 90% of the cash is on Toronto but roughly 60% of the action is on Golden State. Typically, in sports betting, it’s wise to follow the money when it’s flowing in the opposite direction as the public.

Lastly, backing the Raptors on the road has been profitable thus far.

Toronto is 6-3 ATS on the road with a plus-9.5 spread differential. Also, according to CleaningTheGlass.com, the Raptors have the seventh-best spread differential vs. teams in the top-10 of net efficiency.

Over/Under

PASS since these teams play at opposite paces and one likes to operate more in the mid-range (Toronto) while the other has the second-highest 3-point attempt rate in the NBA (Golden State).

The bottom line is I don’t have a good feel for the Raptors-Warriors total, so I’ll just stay away from 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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Denver Nuggets at Phoenix Suns odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Sunday’s Denver Nuggets at Phoenix Suns odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Denver Nuggets (9-7) meet the Phoenix Suns (12-3) for an 8 p.m. ET tip-off at Footprint Center Sunday. Below, we look at the Bulls vs. Nuggets odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

Denver is a loser of three in a row to the Dallas Mavericks, Philadelphia 76ers and Chicago Bulls following a five-game winning streak. The Nuggets are 7-9 ATS and 5-11 O/U with the ninth-best net rating (plus-2.5). Denver big Nikola Jokic leads the NBA in PER and Win Shares per 48 Minutes.

Phoenix enters on an 11-game winning streak with the last two coming in a home back-to-back against the Mavericks. The Suns excel in defense (ranked third in defensive rating) and ball security (second in assist-to-turnover rate). Phoenix is 8-7 ATS and 5-10 O/U with the fifth-best net rating (plus-5.3).

The Nuggets hammered the Suns 110-98 as 6-point road underdogs in each team’s season opener. However, Phoenix did sweep Denver (4-0 ATS) in their Western Conference Semifinals playoff series last season.

Nuggets 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 12:45 p.m. ET.

Money line: Nuggets $250 (bet $100 to win $250) | Suns -320 (bet $320 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Nuggets +7.5 (-108) | Suns -7.5 (-112)
Over/Under (O/U): 208.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Nuggets at Suns key injuries

Nuggets

SF Michael Porter Jr. (back) out
PG Jamal Murray (knee) out

Suns

PF Frank Kaminsky (knee) out

Nuggets at Suns odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Suns 113, Nuggets 104

Money line

PASS since Phoenix is the right side but the Suns (-320) is way too expensive for any NBA regular-season favorite especially when playing a team who is top-10 in net efficiency.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the SUNS -7.5 (-112) because Phoenix’s pick-and-roll offense is too much for Denver.

For instance, Phoenix grades in the 96.6 percentile of the NBA in pick-and-roll offensive efficiency through the “roll man” and the Suns run that play type at the second-highest frequency.

On the other hand, Denver’s defensive efficiency vs. pick-and-roll action through the “roll man” grades in the 24.1 percentile.

Furthermore, Phoenix has two long bigs to throw out Jokic whenever he’s on the court. Not only is Suns big Deandre Ayton an up-and-coming star who played very well against Jokic in the playoffs last year. But, Phoenix backup big JaVale McGee is one of the best backup centers in the Association.

Also, Porter played in the first Nuggets-Suns meeting this season and Denver will miss his ability to space the floor with his 3-point shooting, especially Jokic who loves to hit wide-open shooters when defenses collapse on him.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the OVER 208.5 (-115) because Phoenix’s offense plays at the fourth-highest pace in the NBA and Denver’s transition offense is pretty efficient. If the Nuggets are forced to speed up the tempo then Denver should do its part in pushing this game Over the total.

Additionally, if Phoenix finds success running its pick-and-roll action it’s going to free up wide-open looks for forwards Mikal Bridges and Jae Crowder. And, as we already discussed, the Suns should knife through Denver’s flimsy pick-and-roll defense.

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 predictions

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

The New York Knicks (9-7) travel to United Center Sunday to take on the Chicago Bulls (11-5). Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Knicks at Bulls odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

In a battle of two of the best teams in the Eastern Conference, the Bulls will welcome the Knicks. The Bulls should be happy to be home after playing five straight on the West Coast.

However, Chicago ended its West Coast road swing with a win over the Nuggets. The Bulls are 11-5 ATS and 7-9 O/U. Chicago is led by wings Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan.

As for the Knicks, they’re currently fifth in the Eastern Conference standings. Despite their positive record, they’re just 4-6 in their last 10 games. New York is 7-9 ATS and 6-10 O/U. They’re led by star forward Julius Randle.

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 11:25 a.m. ET.

Money line: Knicks +180 (bet $100 to win $180) | Bulls -220 (bet $220 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Knicks +5.5 (-110) | Bulls -5.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 210.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Knicks at Bulls key injuries

Knicks

C Taj Gibson (groin) questionable
C Mitchell Robinson (nose) questionable
PF Obi Toppin (leg) questionable

Bulls

F Patrick Williams (wrist) out
C Nikola Vucevic (health and safety protocols) questionable

Knicks at Bulls odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bulls 109, Knicks 103

Money line

PASS on the money line.

If anything, consider betting the Knicks at +180 as they should have a size advantage and have the defensive capabilities to at least slowdown DeRozan and LaVine. The Bulls would need to get down under -150 to be playable.

Against the spread

BET to the BULLS -5.5 (-110) as the better side of the spread. While the Knicks lost by just one to the Bulls the first time around, every other loss they’ve had was by more than five points.

With late-game fouling, I’d expect this one to be more than a couple of field goals difference as well. The Bulls rank seventh in offensive rating while the Knicks are sitting at 11th.

The difference should be seen in the defense as the Bulls rank sixth in defensive rating. The Knicks have dropped off on that side of the floor, ranking 17th.

They also have the 24th-worst net rating after the half which could lead to this game getting ugly following the break.

Over/Under

“LEAN” on the OVER 210.5 (-112) as the best value. The Knicks might be the second slowest team in the NBA, but on the road, they’ll be playing at Chicago’s pace.

The Bulls rank 14th in the league in pace and rarely turn the ball over, two things that’ll help push up their points in this one. Also, last time these two teams played, Chicago shot 43% from the field.

Given the Knicks’ elite second unit (New York bench averages the third-most points in the NBA) combined with the star power and shooting in their starting unit, and I think this Over could be the better value on 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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Los Angeles Lakers at Detroit Pistons odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Los Angeles Lakers at Detroit Pistons odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Los Angeles Lakers (8-9) travel to Little Caesars Arena Sunday to take on the Detroit Pistons (4-11). Tip-off is scheduled for 6 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Lakers at Pistons odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Despite LeBron James‘ return in the Lakers primetime matchup with the Celtics, Los Angeles was still slaughtered by the shooting of F Jayson Tatum.

The Lakers are 4-6 in their last 10 and currently sitting in 9th place in the Western Conference.

Typically favorites, the Lakers are just 6-11 at the spread. They’re 9-7-1 on the over/under, a relatively rare over .500 record given Unders are hitting at over a 60 percent rate.

That said, they’ll be taking on the Jerami Grant and Cade Cunningham-led Pistons. Detroit has actually won 3 of its last 10 games. They’re a marginally better 6-9 against the spread.

Lakers at Pistons odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:30 a.m. ET.

Money line: Lakers -320 (bet $320 to win $100) | Pistons +250 (bet $100 to win $250)
Against the spread (ATS): Lakers -7.5 (-102) | Pistons +7.5 (-122)
Over/Under (O/U): 211.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Lakers at Pistons key injuries

Lakers

F LeBron James (abdominal) questionable
G Kendrick Nunn (knee) out

Pistons

F Kelly Olynyk (knee) out
G Killian Hayes (thumb) questionable

Lakers at Pistons odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Lakers 109, Pistons 103

Money line

PASS on the money line.

While the Pistons are an enticing play at home and +250, the Lakers are a surefire no in this situation as -320 is just far too rich for a team that has been awful at times this season.

Against the spread

BET on the PISTONS +7.5 (-122).

This spread will get some major help if James is ruled out, but after playing Friday, he should be expected to play. Even if he does, the Lakers don’t seem that much better, losing to the Celtics by 22. They have dropped 3 straight.

As for Detroit, what they do best is hustle. They rank top 10 in offensive rebounding rate despite being the lowest true shooting percentage.

They’re inefficient, but going against the 22nd ranked team in defensive rebounding rate, the Pistons should get a plethora of second chance opportunities.

I’d bank that there’s enough of those to keep them in the game, at least within touchdown difference.

Over/Under

“LEAN” on the OVER 211.5 (-115) as the Pistons should morph to how the Lakers prefer to play, and this season, Los Angeles ranks in the top five in pace.

The Pistons sit at 19th and have the far younger roster, so they should be wanting to push the pace as well.

With the high-flying Grant and the rising-star Cunningham both having played well over the last few weeks, the Pistons should be able to start shooting better from the field. They rank 19th in shooting over the last five games.

The second-chance opportunities for Detroit and the Lakers pace should push the Over 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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Dallas Mavericks at Los Angeles Clippers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Dallas Mavericks at Los Angeles Clippers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Dallas Mavericks (9-6) travel to Staples Center Sunday to take on the Los Angeles Clippers (9-7). Tip-off is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Mavericks at Clippers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Set to have back-to-back games against each other, the Clippers will host the Mavs two straight games, the second being Tuesday. That said, the Mavs could be without Luka Doncic, which doesn’t seem baked into the spread yet.

With that in mind, I’d likely wait until the MVP candidate’s status is announced before betting if you’d like to wager on Dallas. The Mavericks are 7-8 against the spread and 5-9-1 on the over/under. Doncic missed the team’s last two games, losing to Phoenix both times.

As for LA, they’ll continue to be without Kawhi Leonard, which has forced Paul George to step up. He has been playing at an MVP-caliber level as well, averaging 26.2 points, 7.9 rebounds and 5.2 assists per game this season.

They could become a greater favorite if Doncic is ruled out. However, despite its two losses, Dallas has played well without out their best player on the court.

Mavericks 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 9:45 a.m. ET.

Money line: Mavericks +115 (bet $100 to win $115) | Clippers -140 (bet $140 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Mavericks +2.5 (-108) | Clippers -2.5 (-112)
Over/Under (O/U): 213.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Mavericks at Clippers key injuries

Mavericks

G Luka Doncic (knee) questionable
F Maxi Kleber (oblique) questionable

Clippers

F Kawhi Leonard (knee) out
F Marcus Morris Sr. (knee) out

Mavericks at Clippers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Clippers 108, Mavericks 103

Money line

PASS on the money line.

The Mavericks are too talented of a team to bet the Clippers at -140, especially considering news of a potential Doncic absence could spike this well into the -200s.

Even without the guard, the Mavs have talent by the name of Jalen Brunson, Kristaps Porzingis and Tim Hardaway Jr., making -140 not a great bet. At the same time, without knowing his status, the +115, which seems to assume Doncic will play, isn’t worth it either.

Against the spread

BET on the CLIPPERS -2.5 (-112). This is especially good value if Doncic misses as they lost to the Suns by 7 and 8 without their best player on the court.

The Clippers may not have the best record in the West, but they do rank 7th in net rating.

The Mavericks are down to 22, meaning they play extremely inconsistent for a team that’s 9-6. For example, even the 9-8 Trail Blazers have a positive net rating. Both their offense and defense are below average this season.

The Clippers, a team who has the second-best defensive rating, should limit the Mavs easy opportunities, especially considering they also rank atop the league in opponents free throw rate. The Mavs rank 7th in three-point attempts per game.

They rely on their three. The Clippers hold the 7th best opponents effective field goal rate. Overall, this will be a matchup of a short-handed Mavs against a lethal defense.

I’m going with the team that has proven to be more consistent this season and backing them with ease. I’d get this spread now before a potential Doncic announcement pushes it to around 6 or 7.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the UNDER 213.5 (-108).

The Clippers strength is their defense, and that may limit what Dallas wants to do offensively. As noted, the Clippers have the league’s lowest opponents free-throw rate. Getting to the line won’t be easy.

That said, while the Clippers may play at the sixth-fastest pace in the NBA, the Mavericks rank 22nd in pace. They certainly don’t run at the same level and that’s regardless of if Doncic plays or not.

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

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Philadelphia 76ers at Portland Trail Blazers odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Saturday’s Philadelphia 76ers at Portland Trail Blazers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Philadelphia 76ers (9-7) continue a six-game road trip and head to Oregon to take on the Portland Trail Blazers (8-8), who are in the third game of a four-game homestand. Saturday’s tip-off is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET at Moda Center. Below, we look at the 76ers vs. Trail Blazers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The 76ers snapped a five-game losing streak Thursday with a 103-89 win over the Denver Nuggets. C Joel Embiid has missed the last six games for health and safety protocols and he’ll be out for this one, too. They are 4-2 this season against Western Conference teams.

The Blazers won the first two games of their homestand and also have won three of their last four games. They are 7-1 at home this season. PG Damian Lillard and SG C.J. McCollum both are averaging just over 20 points a game.

76ers 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 3:01 p.m. ET.

Money line: 76ers +210 (bet $100 to win $210) | Trail Blazers -270 (bet $270 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): 76ers +6.5 (-112) | Trail Blazers -6.5 (-108)
Over/Under (O/U): 216.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

76ers at Trail Blazers key injuries

76ers

C Joel Embiid (health and safety protocols) out
SF Danny Green (hamstring) out
PG Ben Simmons (personal reasons) out
SG Matisse Thybulle (health and safety protocols) questionable

Trail Blazers

PG Damian Lillard (abdomen) probable

76ers at Trail Blazers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Trail Blazers 115, 76ers 107

Money line

We have a full-strength Trail Blazers team going against the 76ers without Embiid, Simmons or Green.

The 76ers are getting solid play from SG Seth Curry and PF Tobias Harris, but it won’t be enough with the backcourt of the Blazers.

BET TRAIL BLAZERS (-270).

Against the spread

The 76ers are an even 8-8 ATS this season, while the Blazers are 7-9 ATS.

The 76ers have not covered the spread in a loss yet this season.

The Blazers have covered the spread in all but one of their wins.

Essentially, the way the season for both teams has been, if they win, they will cover the spread but will not cover if they lose.

Expecting a Portland win, TAKE THE TRAIL BLAZERS -6.5 (-108).

Over/Under

Four of the last six games for the Blazers have gone Over the projected total. They averaged 115 points in their last two games.

When they played in Philadelphia, the two teams combined for 216 points.

Three of the last five games for the Sixers have seen both teams score 109 or more.

TAKE OVER 216.5 (-110).

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 Indiana Pacers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s New Orleans Pelicans at Indiana Pacers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The New Orleans Pelicans (3-14) travel to Gainbridge Fieldhouse Saturday to take on the Indiana Pacers (6-11). Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Pelicans at Pacers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Having recently returned SF Brandon Ingram, the Pelicans look like, at the very least, a capable team.

Despite being down 12 at half, the Pelicans roared back and took down the Clippers Friday night. On the season, they’re 7-10 against the spread (ATS) and 4-12-1 on the over/under.

The Pacers are a solid team from top to bottom with C Myles Turner, PG Malcolm Brogdon, SG Caris LeVert and PF Domantas Sabonis leading the charge.

The Pacers are 8-9 ATS and 6-11 on the over/under. It’s been a tough season, but now healthy, they’ll enter as home favorites.

Pelicans at Pacers odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:34 p.m. ET.

Money line: Pelicans +265 (bet $100 to win $265) | Pacers -350 (bet $350 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Pelicans +7.5 (-120) | Pacers -7.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 207.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Pelicans at Pacers key injuries

Pelicans

PG Devonte Graham (foot) out
F Zion Williamson (foot) out

Pacers

SG Chris Duarte (shoulder) questionable

Pelicans at Pacers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Pacers 108, Pelicans 103

Money line

PASS.

While the Pacers should come out on top, betting it against a capable Pelicans team at -350 just isn’t smart.

I’d look to the spread.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the PELICANS +7.5 (-120) as they looked great against the Los Angeles Clippers Friday.

Ingram has brought a new spark to this team. With C Jonas Valančiūnas in the lineup as well, this team is full of playmaking with its star back in action.

The Pelicans have the 26th-best offensive rating and are even worse defensively. Ingram changes all that. Given a 7.5-point spread, they should be able to keep this game close.

Also, the Pacers have the 20th-best net rating in the NBA and have yet to show their playoff-caliber upside. Against a team that’s better than they’re given credit for, I think they’ll struggle to cover this spread.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the OVER 208.5 (-110) as the Pelicans are a different team with Ingram leading the way, and LeVert’s return has aided the Pacers offense. The Pacers rank 15th in offensive rating and 19th in defensive rating.

With 3-point shooting at all positions, the Pacers should be able to get points on the board. The Pacers are in the middle of the league in most key statistics.

The NBA’s Unders hitting at such a high rate has sent these numbers lower, and 208 is one of those that would’ve likely been far higher preseason.

With all the talent that should be taking the court, betting the Over feels like the better value.

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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Oklahoma City Thunder at Boston Celtics odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Oklahoma City Thunder at Boston Celtics odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Oklahoma City Thunder (6-9) travel to TD Garden Saturday to take on the Boston Celtics (8-8). Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Thunder at Celtics odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

After struggling out of the gate, the Thunder, led by star G Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, are 5-5 in their last 10 games. Typically heavy underdogs, the Thunder are 9-6 against the spread.

As for the Celtics, despite being down early Friday night, they defeated the Los Angeles Lakers as LeBron James returned to action.

SF Jayson Tatum, averaging 25.0 points per game, leads Boston. SG Jaylen Brown is also among the league’s top scorers but has played in just 8 of 16 games. The Celtics are 10-6 at the spread.

Thunder at Celtics odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:04 p.m. ET.

Money line: Thunder +400 (bet $100 to win $400) | Celtics -550 (bet $550 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Thunder +9.5 (-115) | Celtics -9.5 (-107)
Over/Under (O/U): 205.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Thunder at Celtics key injuries

Thunder

C Mike Muscala (rest) out

Celtics

SG Jaylen Brown (hamstring) out
PG Dennis Schroder (ankle) probable
C Robert Williams III (knee) doubtful

Thunder at Celtics odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Celtics 106, Thunder 102

Money line

PASS.

While the Celtics should come out on top, betting it against a capable Thunder team at -550 just isn’t smart. At the same time, the Thunder have an All-Star-caliber player that can take over, giving the +400 a touch of value.

I’d look to the points here regardless.

Against the spread

BET THUNDER +9.5 (-115) as they continue to get disrespected by oddsmakers. Also, the Celtics are a public favorite, so they should get more of the action and shoot that number up.

Either way, the Thunder match up well with Boston, offering strength with SF Lu Dort and size with Gilgeous-Alexander to combat Tatum. Over their last 10 games, the Thunder have the third-best defensive rating.

That’s not by accident as they’ve turned it on against opponents. With the Celtics in a perfect spot for a hangover, I think the Thunder will keep this game within single digits.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the OVER 205.5 (-108) as the Celtics flexed their might Friday. With Brown out, the Celtics will rely upon Tatum, and that worked well for them Friday as he put up 37 points.

Tatum is averaging the 11th-most points per game in the NBA. He’s taken his game to a new level, and with a relatively low total, betting the Over is the smart move.

Both teams rank outside the top 10 in defensive rating on the season, so neither are have been among the top tier for the entire season.

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

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Orlando Magic at Milwaukee Bucks odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Saturday’s Orlando Magic at Milwaukee Bucks odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The struggling Orlando Magic (4-12) are on the road to face the Milwaukee Bucks (8-8) Saturday for the first of two straight games between the teams. Tip-off from Fiserv Forum is set for 8 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Magic vs. Bucks odds and lines, and make our expertface NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Magic’s road trip has included a 129-111 loss at the Atlanta Hawks, a 104-98 win over the New York Knicks and most recently a 115-113 loss to the Brooklyn Nets. They have six players scoring in double digits on average, but their leading scorer is G Cole Anthony at 19.6 points per game.

The Bucks have won two games in a row and four of their last six, but following last season’s championship run, they have not strung together a win streak of longer than two games. F Giannis Antetokounmpo is still playing at an elite level as he averages 27.5 points, 11.7 rebounds and 5.9 assists per game.

However, they are scoring less and allowing more points than last season. The Bucks are 16th in scoring (107.2 ppg) and 20th in scoring defense (108.0 ppg allowed).

Magic 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 11:45 a.m. ET.

Money line: Magic +500 (bet $100 to win $500) | Bucks -750 (bet $750 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Magic +10.5 (-107) | Bucks -10.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 214.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Magic at Bucks key injuries

Magic (not officially submitted)

F Jonathan Isaac (knee) out
G Markelle Fultz (knee) out
G Michael Carter-Williams (ankle) questionable

Bucks (not officially submitted)

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

Magic at Bucks odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bucks 110, Magic 101

Money line

PASS on the money line. The Bucks have yet to win three in a row this season, but the Magic have not had anything less than a two-game losing skid before getting another win.

Orlando is 2-10 in conference games, with their only two wins coming against the Knicks.

The Bucks should have no problem with this game.

Against the spread

Orlando and Milwaukee are both 6-10 ATS.

The Magic covered the spread in their last two games. It was the first time all season they have covered the spread in two consecutive games.

The Bucks have failed to cover the spread in their last four games and have not covered a double-digit spread yet this season. The Magic are 3-3 ATS with a double-digit spread.

Take MAGIC +10.5 (-107).

Over/Under

Orlando is 9-7 O/U on the season and the Bucks are 4-12 O/U. Only one team has had fewer games hit the Over than Milwaukee and only two of their last 13 went Over the projected total.

The Magic have alternated the Over and the Under in their last five games.

Take UNDER 214.5 (-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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Chicago Bulls at Denver Nuggets odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Friday’s Chicago Bulls at Denver Nuggets odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Chicago Bulls (10-5) are in “Mile High City” Friday for a 9 p.m. ET game against the Denver Nuggets (9-6) at Ball Arena. Below, we look at the Bulls vs. Nuggets odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

Chicago is 2-2 overall and ATS in the first four of its five-game Western Conference road swing. The Bulls lost to the Trail Blazers 112-107 as 3.5-point road underdogs Wednesday. Chicago is 10-5 ATS and 6-9 O/U with the fourth-ranked net rating (plus-5.2).

Also see: Bet Slippin’ Podcast’s Daily NBA show

Denver is has lost back-to-back games to the Dallas Mavericks and Joel Embiid-less Philadelphia 76ers after winning five straight. The Nuggets are 7-8 ATS and 4-11 O/U with the eighth-best net rating (plus-3.2).

The Nuggets beat the Bulls in both regular-season meetings last year but Denver is missing two of its starters while Chicago brought in several new pieces this offseason.

Bulls at Nuggets odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 4:00 p.m. ET.

Money line: Bulls -108 (bet $108 to win $100) | Nuggets -112 (bet $112 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Bulls +1.5 (-120) | Nuggets -1.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 208.5 (O: -107 | U: -115)

Bulls at Nuggets key injuries

Bulls

C Nikola Vucevic (health and safety protocols)

Nuggets

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

Bulls at Nuggets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bulls 105, Nuggets 99

Money line

BET the BULLS (-108) because Chicago is healthier and took “sharp” money early. For instance, Chicago has been steamed down from a +148 consensus underdog down the current number, according to Pregame.com.

Furthermore, the Bulls rank 13th in adjusted shot quality differential whereas the Nuggets rank 21st, according to ShotQuality.com.

Plus Chicago’s backcourt has a huge advantage over Denver’s. Bulls guards Lonzo Ball and Alex Caruso are an elite defensive backcourt whereas Nuggets guards Monte Morris and Will Barton are a below-average starting backcourt.

On top of that, no one on the Nuggets aside from Jokic can create their own look. The Bulls have two elite wings that are certified scorers (Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan).

Against the spread

PASS on the Bulls +1.5 (-120) because it doesn’t offer much insurance for our Chicago money line wager and the price is going down because of Jokic’s iffy game status. Let’s just gamble on Jokic’s availability, or lack thereof hopefully, and stick with the Bulls outright.

Over/Under

BET the UNDER 208.5 (-115) because both teams are elite defensively and their games match up well for a low-scoring game.

Chicago likes to operate in the mid-range through its two dynamic wings and Denver plays solid defensive vs. mid-range field goals.

The Nuggets also attempt a high volume of mid-range jumpers and the Bulls have the best defensive field goal percentage vs. mid-range field goals.

Additionally, Chicago relies on getting to the charity stripe at a high rate but Denver ranks fifth in defensive FT/FGA rate.

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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