NBA money line against the spread ATS Over Under OU total – Page 295

Detroit Pistons at Houston Rockets odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Detroit Pistons at Houston Rockets odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Detroit Pistons (1-8) travel to Toyota Center Wednesday to take on the Houston Rockets (1-9). Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Pistons at Rockets odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

One team is going to leave tonight with two wins. However, the individual success of the teams is not the main story of Wednesday’s meeting.

In a nationally televised showing, the No. 1 overall pick, Cade Cunningham, will take on the No. 2 overall pick, Jalen Green. Green has been far more impressive and is a top favorite for Rookie of the Year.

Aside from those two, the Pistons have Jerami Grant and the Rockets have Christian Wood, both All-Star-caliber players.

The Rockets have lost eight straight after beating the Thunder by 33 earlier in the season. As for the Pistons, they defeated the Magic, meaning neither team has a victory over a playoff-caliber opponent.

The home team, Houston, will enter as favorites. Despite just one win, the Rockets are 5-4-1 ATS and the Pistons are just 3-6 ATS.

Pistons at Rockets odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:10 p.m. ET.

Money line: Pistons +133 (bet $100 to win $133) | Rockets -165 (bet $165 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Pistons +3.5 (-108) | Rockets -3.5 (-112)
Over/Under (O/U): 210.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Pistons at Rockets key injuries

Pistons

PG Killian Hayes (thumb) probable

Rockets

SG Kevin Porter Jr. (thigh) questionable

Pistons at Rockets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Rockets 108, Pistons 102

Money line

PASS on the money line.

Two one-win teams facing off poses interesting money line odds. However, while I think Houston will come out on top with relative ease, I still wouldn’t take that at -165.

I’d rather take the points in this scenario.

Against the spread

BET the ROCKETS -3.5 (112) as they’re actually a competent side.

As you can see in the spread, the Pistons have a ton of bad losses and are just 3-6 ATS. Detroit’s minus-11.9 net rating is the worst in the NBA. The Pistons are dead-last in true shooting percentage, the only team shooting below 50 percent.

While the Rockets have just one win as well, they’ve hung in games, which is why they typically cover large spreads. They rank 26th in net rating at just minus-7.1.

The availability of Porter Jr. will be critical, and I’d wait to bet until his status is announced. Overall, the Rockets’ side is the far better play in this one.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the UNDER 210. 5 (-110) as the Pistons offense is just awful. They rank dead-last in offensive rating and are solely dependent on Grant as the Pistons don’t have many quality options.

Detroit has been just horrible from the field. The Pistons are shooting under 40 percent from the field. No team has ended a season shooting under 40 percent from the field in 25 years. Detroit is historically bad at shooting.

Now, the Rockets are the top team in the league in pace. They push the ball, and that could be the style of this game which is why I lean to the Under and will not place a full unit on it.

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

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Milwaukee Bucks at New York Knicks odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Milwaukee Bucks at New York Knicks odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Milwaukee Bucks (5-6) travel to Madison Square Garden Wednesday to take on the New York Knicks (7-4). Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Bucks at Knicks odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

After many of the Knicks players were at the Duke-Kentucky game last night, they’ll get to take the court to face two-time MVP Giannis Antetokoumpo and the Bucks.

The Knicks are led by All-Star PF Julius Randle. Former MVP Derrick Rose and SF Evan Fournier also help carry the load.

As for the Bucks, it’s been mainly the Giannis show with Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez missing several games. Milwaukee recently got Jrue Holiday back and has had Grayson Allen stepping up to help offensively.

The Bucks, given their injuries, will enter this one as rare underdogs. Milwaukee is coming off a 9-point win over the Joel Embiid-less 76ers. They’re on the second night of a back-to-back.

Bucks at Knicks odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:05 p.m. ET.

Money line: Bucks +140 (bet $100 to win $140) | Knicks -175 (bet $175 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Bucks +4.5 (-120) | Knicks -4.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 216.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Bucks at Knicks key injuries

Bucks

C Brook Lopez (back) out
SF Khris Middleton (health and safety protocols) out
SG Donte DiVincenzo (ankle) out

Knicks

C Nerlens Noel (knee) questionable
C Mitchell Robinson (hip) questionable

Bucks at Knicks odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Knicks 108, Bucks 105

Money line

PASS on the money line.

I prefer to look at the points in this one. Milwaukee is coming off a road win over the Sixers and is already shorthanded. I’d stay away from Milwaukee’s money line, despite getting plus-money value.

If there is a way to play the money line, it’s Milwaukee at +140. Whenever the team with by far the best player on the court is at that value, it certainly should be given a look.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the BUCKS +4.5 (-120) as the best value in this game.

Milwaukee should have the depth it takes to keep this one close. They’ll more than likely start George Hill, a proven 3-and-D specialist. Allen, Giannis, and the energetic Bobby Portis will be available as well. Holiday’s return cannot be stressed enough either.

This will be his fourth game back, seeing increasing minutes in each of his previous three. A three-time All-Defensive team member, Holiday should be able to lock up one of the Knicks starting guards.

For New York, its focus has been more offensive, bringing in Fournier and Kemba Walker. the Knicks dropped from the fourth-best defensive rating last season to now in the bottom ten.

Giannis and his many 3-point shooters should be able to impose their will on a weaker defensive team. Also, Giannis is a star defender given his size and should limit the Knicks’ star, Randle.

Combine it all, and I like the Bucks to cover in this one.

Over/Under

BET the UNDER 216.5 (-107) as the better side of the total. Without Middleton, the Bucks offense may struggle. They already rank in the bottom half of the league in offensive and defensive rating.

The defending champs haven’t played well without key personnel. Holiday is back, and he should help on both ends of the court. As for pace, the Bucks rank ninth and the Knicks are 27th.

With the Knicks, a more methodical half-court team with Rose and Randle, pushing the pace on the Bucks with the length of Giannis may not suit them well.

The Bucks have scored fewer than 100 points in four of their last six games. The Knicks have scored fewer than 105 points in two of their last four. Overall, I prefer the Under in this one.

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

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Indiana Pacers at Denver Nuggets odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Wednesday’s Indiana Pacers at Denver Nuggets odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Denver Nuggets (6-4) host the Indiana Pacers (4-7) Wednesday at Ball Arena for a 9 p.m. ET tip-off. Below, we look at the Pacers vs. Nuggets odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

Indiana has won three of its past four games (4-0 ATS) with the latest being a 94-91 win at the Sacramento Kings Sunday. The Pacers are 6-5 ATS and 4-7 O/U with the 17th-ranked net rating (-0.6).

Denver has won back-to-back games over the Houston Rockets and Miami Heat after losing a two-game showing at the Memphis Grizzlies Nov. 1-3. The Nuggets are 4-6 ATS and 2-8 O/U with the eighth-best net rating (2.9).

The Nuggets hammered the Pacers by double digits in both regular-season meetings last year. However, Denver’s three leading scorers from those games (Nikola Jokic, Michael Porter Jr. and Jamal Murray) will not be in its lineup Wednesday.

Pacers 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 1:25 p.m. ET.

Money line: Pacers -155 (bet $155 to win $100) | Nuggets +125 (bet $100 to win $125)
Against the spread (ATS): Pacers -3.5 (-107) | Nuggets +3.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 204.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Pacers at Nuggets key injuries

Pacers

PG Malcolm Brogdon (illness) probable
SF T.J. Warren (foot) out

Nuggets

PG Monte Morris (knee) probable
C Nikola Jokic (suspension) out
PF Michael Porter Jr. (back) out

Pacers at Nuggets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Pacers 111, Nuggets 99

Money line

PASS with a slight “lean” to the Pacers (-155) because it’s on the fringe of my price range but I’m confident enough in Indiana here to lay the points.

The fact of the matter is the Pacers are better than their record indicates. For instance, according to ShotQuality.com, Indiana should have a 6-5 overall record based on its adjusted shot quality differential.

Also, the Pacers have the third-worst win differential based on their net efficiency, according to CleaningTheGlass.com. Furthermore, Indiana has the fourth-best effective field goal shooting (eFG%). The Pacers are the only team in the top-12 of eFG% that has a losing record.

Against the spread

BET the PACERS -3.5 (-107) for 1 unit even though it’s an ultra-square play. A majority of the bets are on Indiana but most of the money is on Denver (according to Pregame.com). So, presumably, the “wiseguys” like the Nuggets in this spot.

Theoretically, all of Denver’s injuries are accurately accounted for in the line. But, I just don’t buy that. Jokic leads the NBA in Win Shares per 48, Value Over Replacement Player (VORP), offensive box plus/minus and defensive box plus/minus.

Moreover, Indiana has no reason to look past Denver in this spot. The Pacers are 12th right now in the East and have found their groove in the last four games.

Maybe it’s square, but I’m fading the team missing the NBA’s MVP and backing a PACERS -3.5 (-107) that should have more wins.

Over/Under

PASS because Jokic is the focal point of Denver’s scheme on both ends of the floor. I cannot get a grasp on if the Nuggets’ offense or defense will be more affected by Jokic’s absence.

Furthermore, while the Under feels more likely, we’d be getting the worst of the number. The Pacers-Nuggets total opened at 213.5 but has plummeted when Jokic’s one-game suspension was announced.

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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Charlotte Hornets at Memphis Grizzlies odds, picks and prediction

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

The Charlotte Hornets (5-7) close out their five-game West Coast road trip with an 8 p.m. ET tip-off against the Memphis Grizzlies (6-4) at the FedExForum. Below, we look at the Hornets vs. Grizzlies odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

Charlotte has lost five in a row including all four of its previous games on this Western road swing. The Hornets is 5-7 ATS and 9-3 O/U with the 22nd-ranked net rating (-3.6).

Memphis has won three of its past four games with the latest being a 125-118 overtime win over the Minnesota Timberwolves as 4.5-point home favorites. The Grizzlies is 7-3 ATS and 5-5 O/U with the 24th-ranked net rating (-4.2).

The Grizzlies have won all four games they’ve played the Hornets since drafting guard Ja Morant in 2019 (4-0 ATS).

Hornets at Grizzlies odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:15 p.m. ET.

Money line: Hornets +160 (bet $100 to win $160) | Grizzlies -200 (bet $200 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Hornets +4.5 (-107) | Grizzlies -4.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 228.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Hornets at Grizzlies key injuries

Hornets

PF P.J. Washington (elbow) out

Grizzlies

SG Dillon Brooks (hand) questionable
SF Ziaire Williams (wrist) questionable

Hornets at Grizzlies odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Grizzlies 120, Hornets 113

Money line

PASS since I like Memphis in this spot but the Grizzlies (-200) is way out of my price range for an NBA regular-season favorite.

Memphis has handled Charlotte in their last four meetings with relative ease and the Hornets have gotten smoked on their West Coast trip.

Against the spread

GIMME the GRIZZLIES -4.5 (-115) for 1 unit because there’s been a “sharp line move” towards Memphis despite the bet splits being pretty even. The Grizzlies are getting much more money bet on them though and Memphis has gone from a 4-point opening favorite to the current number.

Also, the Grizzlies owned the Hornets on the glass in each of their past four meetings and that should happen again. Memphis acquired big Steven Adams this past offseason and Adams typically dominates the paint vs. opposing bigs.

Furthermore, Charlotte plays weak defense against what Memphis does frequently. For instance, the Grizzlies attempt the most shots within five feet of the basket and the third-highest rate of short mid-range shots (according to CleaningTheGlass.com).

But, the Hornets have the third-worst defensive field goal percentage vs. shot attempts within five feet of the basket and the fourth-worst defensive efficiency vs. shot mid-range field goal attempts (CleaningTheGlass.com).

Over/Under

Slight “LEAN” to the OVER 228.5 (-110) for a tiny wager if at all because I much prefer Memphis laying the points than the total in this matchup.

However, both teams play at a fast tempo and both teams are in the bottom-3 of defensive rating. Plus we’ve already discussed how Memphis can attack Charlotte’s defense but the Hornets have reasons to be confident they’ll have success on offense as well.

For instance, Charlotte gets out in transition at the second-highest frequency in the Association and Memphis gives up the fifth-most points per possession in transition. On top of that, both squads score the third-most paint points per game (50.0 PPG) and rank 20th or worse in paint points per game allowed.

That said, we are getting to the party late as the Hornets-Grizzlies total opened at 226.5 and has been steamed up by all the pro-Over money. My favorite play is the Grizzlies -4.5 (-110), but there’s a little value in the OVER 228.5 (-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.

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

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Dallas Mavericks at Chicago Bulls odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Wednesday’s Dallas Mavericks at Chicago Bulls odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Dallas Mavericks (7-3) visit the “Windy City” Wednesday for an 8 p.m. ET tip-off against the Chicago Bulls (7-3) at the United Center. Below, we look at the Mavericks vs. Bulls odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

Dallas has won four of the past five games including three straight against the San Antonio Spurs, Boston Celtics, and New Orleans Pelicans. The Mavs are 3-7 ATS and 1-8-1 O/U with the 21st-ranked net rating (minus-2.3).

Chicago lost a back-to-back home-and-away to the Philadelphia 76ers before crushing the Brooklyn Nets 118-95 as 1-point home underdogs Monday. The Bulls are 7-3 ATS and 4-6 O/U with the fourth-best net rating (plus-6.9).

The Bulls have beaten the Mavs in three consecutive meetings (3-0 ATS). Chicago guard Zach LaVine put up 24.5 points and 7.5 assists per game with a plus-20 net rating in the two Mavericks-Bulls games last season.

Mavericks 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 12 p.m. ET.

Money line: Mavericks +135 (bet $100 to win $135) | Bulls -170 (bet $170 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Mavericks +3.5 (-107) | Bulls -3.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 215.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Mavericks at Bulls key injuries

Mavericks

PF Maxi Kleber (oblique) out

Bulls

PF Patrick Williams (wrist) out

Mavericks at Bulls odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bulls 108, Mavericks 106

Money line

PASS with a heavy “lean” to the Mavericks (+135) because I’m going to place a small wager on Dallas plus the points and generally like to sprinkle on an underdog’s money line when taking them to cover. However, I see a lot more value in the Mavericks’ spread and the total.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the MAVERICKS +3.5 (-107) because the Bulls struggle to defend what Dallas does frequently.

For instance, the Mavs attempt the highest volume of shots from the post, the sixth-most off-the-dribble 3-pointers, and the eighth-most catch-and-shoot 3-pointers (according to ShotQuality.com). Dallas is going against a Bulls team that ranks 20th or worse in defensive efficiency vs. those three shot types.

Furthermore, according to Pregame.com, more than 90% of the cash is on Chicago at the time of publishing. It’s far more profitable to fade a crowd of people in sports betting rather than follow it.

Over/Under

BET the UNDER 215.5 (-110) and this is my best bet in the Mavericks-Bulls game for various reasons.

First, both offenses run a lot of action through the pick-and-roll ball handler and both defenses are above-average in points per possession vs. the pick-and-roll ball handler. Also, both teams do a good job preventing opponents from shooting 3-pointers and each operates at a bottom-10 pace.

Additionally, the Under has cashed in eight of Dallas’s previous 10 games overall and eight of Chicago’s past ten games vs. teams with a winning record.

Finally, more than 90% of the action is on the Over (according to Pregame.com) despite all of this.

Presumably, the market sees elite scorers like Dallas’s Luka Doncic and Chicago’s DeMar DeRozan and figures more points. But, since the contrarian mindset is profitable in sports betting, let’s fade that notion.

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

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Washington Wizards at Cleveland Cavaliers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Washington Wizards at Cleveland Cavaliers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Washington Wizards (7-3) travel to Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse Wednesday to take on the Cleveland Cavaliers (7-4). Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Wizards at Cavaliers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Cavaliers are coming into this game red hot as the winners of four straight. The Cavaliers defeated the Knicks by 17 in their last outing with potential All-Star and Player of the Week C Jarrett Allen hunkering down the paint.

They’ve held their opponent under 110 points for five consecutive games, but doing so against the G Bradley Beal-led Wizards will not be easy. Beal is one of the most prolific scorers in the NBA.

He put up 30 for the Wizards in their most recent loss to the Milwaukee Bucks Sunday. They’ve topped 110 in two of their last four outings, making this a prime matchup for both sides.

Wizards at Cavaliers odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:07 a.m. ET.

Money line: Wizards -150 (bet $150 to win $100) | Cavaliers +122 (bet $122 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Wizards -2.5 (-120) | Cavaliers +2.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 208.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Wizards at Cavaliers key injuries

Wizards

PF Rui Hachimura (not with team) out
C Thomas Bryant (knee) out
PF Davis Bertans (ankle) out

Cavaliers

PF Kevin Love (health and safety protocols) out
PF Lauri Markkanen (health and safety protocols) out
PG Collin Sexton (knee) out
SF Isaac Okoro (hamstring) questionable

Wizards at Cavaliers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Wizards 107, Cavaliers 101

Money line

PASS on the money line with a slight lean to Washington (-150) because I do think they’ll come out on top.

The points offer better value though, especially since most NBA games have fouling at the end if they’re within a couple of points. Look toward the spread for more value.

Against the spread

BET on the WIZARDS -2.5 (-120) as the best value in this game. The Cavaliers are coming into Wednesday extremely short-handed with three of their best scorers out.

While the Cavaliers have a marginally better offensive rating, the Wizards defensive rating is the fifth-best in the league. The Wizards should be able to lock up Allen behind PF Montrezl Harrell and C Daniel Gafford. With Beal winning the battle in the backcourt, the more skilled team — which is this instance is Washington — should come out on top.

The Cavs have the sixth-best offensive rebounding rate while the Wizards have the seventh-best defensive rebounding rate. Limiting Cleveland’s second chance opportunities will be another reason why the Wizards come out on top.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the UNDER 208.5 (-108) as I don’t trust Cleveland’s offense without its best playmaker. Love and Markkanen are both top-seven scoring options, and Sexton is the top scorer for the Cavs.

They should struggle to score without those three suiting up. The Cavaliers already have the fourth highest turnover rate and not having experienced scorers won’t help the cause.

On the other side though is Beal, so that’s why one should only consider this for a small unit. However, Washington is just 15th in offensive rating, so despite having a top-tier scorer, they haven’t been overly dominant on that end of the court.

That said, with the injuries and rebounding, I’d lean the Under in this one.

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

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Portland Trail Blazers at Phoenix Suns odds, picks and prediction

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

The Portland Trail Blazers (5-6) continue their road trip with a trip to Arizona. They face the Phoenix Suns (6-3) Wednesday with a tip time of 9 p.m. ET at Footprint Arena. Below, we look at the Trail Blazers vs. Sun odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Trail Blazers opened their four-game road trip Tuesday night with a 117-109 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers. PG Damian Lillard scored 27 and F Norman Powell added 23 points in the loss.

The Suns have won five straight games. They played the Sacramento Kings on the road on Monday, holding on for a 109-104 win. PG Cameron Payne led the Suns with 24 points in the game.

Trail Blazers 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 8:30 a.m. ET.

Money line: Trail Blazers +210 (bet $100 to win $210) | Suns -270 (bet $270 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Trail Blazers +6.5 (-115) | Suns -6.5 (-107)
Over/Under (O/U): 220.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Trail Blazers at Suns key injuries

Trail Blazers

None

Suns

C Deandre Ayton (leg) out
G Landry Shamet (foot) doubtful

Trail Blazers at Suns odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Suns 116, Blazers 107

Money line

The Blazers have struggled on the road this season. They are now 0-5 on the road this season.

Meanwhile, the Suns have won five games in a row and four straight at home.

The two teams met in Portland Oct. 23, and the Blazers blew the Suns out 134-105 that night.

With Portland’s struggles on the road and the Suns’ play in their winning streak, take the SUNS (-270).

Against the spread

The Blazers are 4-7 ATS to start the season and have failed to cover the spread in any of their five road games this season. They have lost by an average of 12.6 points in their road games.

The Suns are now 5-4 ATS on the season. having covered the spread in their last four games in a row. They are 3-3 ATS at home.

Take the SUNS -6.5 (-107).

Over/Under

The Blazers had their game Tuesday go Over the projected total. They are 4-7 O/U, but only two of their last nine games have hit the Over.

The Suns are 3-6 O/U, but two of their last three games went Over the projected total. Only two of their six home games have hit the Over.

However, these two teams combined for 239 points in their first matchup.

Take OVER 220.5 (-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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Minnesota Timberwolves at Golden State Warriors odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Minnesota Timberwolves at Golden State Warriors odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Minnesota Timberwolves (3-6) travel to Chase Center Wednesday to take on the Golden State Warriors (9-1). Tip-off is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Timberwolves at Warriors odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Warriors are entering this game with the best record in the NBA and the current MVP favorite, Stephen Curry. Curry dropped 50 points last game as a third-quarter onslaught helped them annihilate the Hawks.

Golden State SG Jordan Poole has been the team’s second-best scoring option while Draymond Green is also making a legitimate case for his fourth All-Star appearance.

However, limiting C Karl-Anthony Towns is never easy. PG D’Angelo Russell is active and dropped 30 points in 41 minutes in Minnesota’s overtime loss at the Memphis Grizzlies (his first game back from knee surgery).

Timberwolves SG Anthony Edwards will also have a say in the outcome of this game. Edwards has been Minnesota’s second-best scoring option.

Timberwolves 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 3:50 a.m. ET.

Money line: Timberwolves +265 (bet $100 to win $265) | Warriors -350 (bet $350 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Timberwolves +7.5 (-120) | Warriors -7.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 222.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Timberwolves at Warriors key injuries

Timberwolves

None.

Warriors

SF Otto Porter Jr. (foot) questionable
SG Klay Thompson (Achilles) out
C James Wiseman (knee) out

Timberwolves at Warriors odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Warriors 114, Timberwolves 105

Money line

PASS on the money line. There really isn’t much value in the Warriors (-350). Betting a regular-season -350 favorite just isn’t worth it in most situations. Again, with three high-level scorers on the other side of the ball, there’s no telling if one gets and stays hot.

On the other side of the thought process, the Warriors have one loss. Every other team has at least three. I wouldn’t bet against this team and their league-best defense.

Against the spread

BET the WARRIORS -7.5 (-105) as they’ve just been destroying opponents.

The best part about Golden State’s success is its defense. The Warriors have the best defensive rating in the NBA, by a long shot.

The Wolves rank 26th in offensive rating and 27th in true shooting percentage. Both are weaknesses that the Warriors should be able to expose. Offensively, Curry shouldn’t be tamed by either Russell or Edwards.

The Warriors’ backcourt is just much better, and with Green on Towns in the premier frontcourt matchup, expect the Warriors to win most matchups. They’ve won five straight games by 13 or more.

With the Wolves nothing special, they should be able to make that six.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the UNDER 222.5 (-108) as the Dubs should be able to have their way defensively. The Dubs are the only team in the NBA with a sub-100 defensive rating.

Golden State has held three of its last five opponents under 95 points.

While the Warriors have a top-five offensive rating and the best true shooting percentage, the Wolves have the 11th-best defensive rating. Minnesota has been solid defensively this season.

Combine the two strengths for both teams, and the Under appears to 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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Toronto Raptors at Boston Celtics odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Toronto Raptors at Boston Celtics odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Toronto Raptors (6-5) travel to TD Garden Wednesday to take on the Boston Celtics (4-6). Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Raptors at Celtics odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Raptors, led by a trio of ultra-talented forwards (rookie Scottie Barnes, OG Anunoby and Pascal Siakam) are coming in as underdogs. Siakam just made his season debut, scoring 15 in 25 minutes.

Toronto lost by 13 to the Nets in their last outing. It’s been a season of streaks for the Raptors, having won five straight and now having lost two in a row. They’ll face a Jaylen Brown-less Celtics.

The Cs will undoubtedly depend on G Dennis Schroder and SF Jayson Tatum. Tatum is averaging 23.6 points per game yet is shooting under 40 percent from the field.

Raptors 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 3:43 a.m. ET.

Money line: Raptors +110 (bet $100 to win $110) | Celtics -135 (bet $135 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Raptors +2.5 (-115) | Celtics -107 (-107)
Over/Under (O/U): 209.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Raptors at Celtics key injuries

Raptors

None impacting gambling odds

Celtics

SF Jaylen Brown (hamstring) out

Raptors at Celtics odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Raptors 108, Celtics 104

Money line

BET on the RAPTORS (+110) as the best value in this match.

While Tatum will be the best player on the court, Anunoby, Barnes, and Siakam may be the next three. All three are also above-average defenders which makes it ideal for taking on a Brown-less Cs.

The Raptors have the 10th-best defensive rating. They also have the 14th-best offensive rating. The Celtics are below them in each.

They shouldn’t be underdogs, so get them while you can. With Fred VanVleet running the show and defensive-minded Gary Trent Jr. also on the roster, the Raptors are loaded with talent.

The Raptors also crash the boards hard, ranking first in offensive rebounding rate. The Celtics are in the bottom ten in defensive rebounding rate. Expect the Raptors to dominate the glass and the game.

Against the spread

PASS on the Raptors +2.5 (-115) as I’m not a fan of hanging a couple of points on the underdogs. I’d rather go straight for the money line here as it provides plus-money value.

Over/Under

“LEAN” on the OVER 209.5 (-110) as the better of two sides.

The Raptors are 10th and the Celtics are 12th in defensive rating. The Cs, with veteran Al Horford down low and Marcus Smart on the perimeter, have top-tier defenders.

Also, both teams rank in the bottom half of the league in pace with the Raptors second to last. With that in mind, this should be a close, half-court heavy matchup.

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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Brooklyn Nets at Orlando Magic odds, picks and predictions

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

The Brooklyn Nets (7-4) travel to Amway Center Wednesday to take on the Orlando Magic (3-8). Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Nets at Magic odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Nets were destroyed by Chicago in their last outing despite entering on a five-game win streak.

Brooklyn ended up losing by 23. However, the Nets have won five of their last six. The Nets are led by former MVPs, Kevin Durant and James Harden, both of which averaged 26.9 points per game (PPG) last season. They’re respectively at 29.5 PPG and 18.3 PPG.

The Nets will be taking on a rising star in PG Cole Anthony, the second-year guard that’s propelled the Magic’s offense in most of their games. The Magic are still without their best player PF Jonathan Isaac, relying heavily on C Mo Bamba in the frontcourt.

Nets at Magic odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 3:30 a.m. ET.

Money line: Nets -410 (bet $410 to win $100) | Magic +310 (bet $100to win $310)
Against the spread (ATS): Nets -9.5 (-102) | Magic +9.5 (-122)
Over/Under (O/U): 209.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Nets at Magic key injuries

Nets

C Nicolas Claxton (illness) out
PG Kyrie Irving (personal) out

Magic

PG Markelle Fultz (knee) out
PF Jonathan Isaac (knee) out
PG Michael Carter-Williams (ankle) out

Nets at Magic odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Nets 110, Magic 102

Money line

PASS on the Magic at +310.

No team in the NBA right now deserves to be given a -410 right now, so stay far away from the Nets’ money line. Consider the Magic, but if you like Orlando, head down to take them on the points.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the MAGIC +9.5 (-122) as the home underdog should be able to hang with the Nets. Given Bamba and Wendell Carter Jr.‘s length, some of the two should be able to defend Durant with some success.

With SF Franz Wagner and PG Jalen Suggs both having shown their potential, the Magic are ranked 25th in offensive rating and 26th in defensive rating, not horrible spots for one of the worst teams in the East.

This is also a bet against the Nets.

It did win five straight at one point, but Brooklyn is just 3-2 on the road. The Nets rank 19th in offensive rating so, while Durant has been amazing, they haven’t figured it out as a team.

Over/Under

BET the OVER 209.5 (-110) as Brooklyn just has too much talent. Believe it or not, the Magic actually have played more to the Over this season.

With the Under hitting at more than a 55 percent rate, the Magic are 6-5 O/U. With Suggs, Anthony and Wagner, the Magic should manage to get up and down the court despite ranking 25th in pace.

The Nets are 13th in pace and should manage to impose their will on Orlando. If it’s the Nets pace, the Magic will have to keep up with Durant and Harden, meaning it could be both a long night and a high-scoring 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.

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

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