NBA money line against the spread ATS Over Under OU total – Page 301

Denver Nuggets at Utah Jazz odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Tuesday’s Denver Nuggets at Utah Jazz odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Denver Nuggets (2-1) face the Utah Jazz (2-0) Tuesday. Tip-off is from Vivint Arena is set for 10 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Nuggets vs. Jazz odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Nuggets are playing for the second night in a row. Denver dropped a 99-87 home game to the Cleveland Cavaliers Monday as it turned the ball over 21 times and shot only 9-for-38 from three-point range. C Nikola Jokic paced the Nuggets with 24 points and 19 rebounds in the loss.

The Jazz last played Friday in a 110-101 win over the Sacramento Kings. G Donovan Mitchell led the team with 27 points and the defense held the Kings to 39.4% shooting from the field.

Nuggets at Jazz odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:07 a.m. ET.

Money line: Nuggets +230 (bet $100 to win $230) | Jazz -300 (bet $300 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Nuggets +6.5 (-105) | Jazz -6.5 (-120)
Over/Under (O/U): 219.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Nuggets at Jazz key injuries

Nuggets

None affecting gambling odds

Jazz

F Rudy Gay (heel) out

Nuggets at Jazz odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Jazz 108, Nuggets 102

Money line

PASS on the money line.

The Jazz are second in the league in defensive rating and the Nuggets have struggled more offensively than one would imagine, averaging just 99.7 points per game.

While Jokic is the reigning MVP, the Jazz have the defense to show him with C Rudy Gobert — the reigning Defensive Player of the Year. They were a league-best 35-7 at home last season and are 1-0 there so far this year, but the money line doesn’t have enough value to be worth a bet.

Against the spread

The Jazz have covered the spread in both games they have played this season. They had a league-best 65.8% home cover percentage last year.

The Nuggets have failed to cover the spread in their last two games, but have not allowed an opponent to score 100 or more points this season. That will keep Denver in a close game.

Take the NUGGETS +7.5 (-120).

Over/Under

Neither team has had a game hit the Over this season. As noted, the Nuggets have not had an opponent crack 100 points and they are averaging only 99.7 points per game themselves.

The Jazz’s highest total so far this season is 211 points.

Take UNDER 219.5 (-112).

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 Jess Root on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Portland Trail Blazers at Los Angeles Clippers odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Monday’s Portland Trail Blazers at Los Angeles Clippers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Los Angeles Clippers (0-2) host the Portland Trail Blazers (1-1) Monday at Staples Center for a 10:30 p.m. ET tip-off. Below, we look at the Trail Blazers vs. Clippers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Portland evened their regular-season record after clubbing the Phoenix Suns 134-105 Saturday. Blazers SG C.J. McCollum scored a game-high 28 points on 52.6% field goal shooting and Portland dominated Phoenix in all “four factors” .

L.A. lost to the Memphis Grizzlies 120-114 as 4-point home favorites in its last outing. Paul George balled out by scoring 41 points on 60.0% shooting with 10 rebounds and 4 assists but didn’t get enough help from his supporting cast.

The Clippers won all three regular-season meetings against the Trail Blazers last season and covered in two of three victories.

PG lit up Portland last season, averaging over 30.0 points per game (PPG) on 73.1% true shooting (.582/.462/.889), 8.0 rebounds (RPG) and 5.0 assists per game (APG) with a plus-23 net rating in those three meetings.

On the other hand, Damian Lillard struggled vs. L.A., scoring just 15.5 PPG on 41.1% true shooting (.179/.071/.909) in his two appearances against the Clippers last year.

Trail Blazers 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 3:40 p.m. ET.

Money line: Trail Blazers +122 (bet $100 to win $122) | Clippers -150 (bet $150 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Trail Blazers +2.5 (-105) | Clippers -2.5 (-120)
Over/Under (O/U): 230.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Trail Blazers at Clippers key injuries

Trail Blazers

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

Clippers

PF Serge Ibaka (back) out
SF Kawhi Leonard (knee) out

Trail Blazers at Clippers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Trail Blazers 117, Clippers 111

Money line

L.A. doesn’t have the same defensive identity it has in recent seasons with Kawhi sidelined by injury and former PG Patrick Beverley leaving in free agency this offseason.

Both were two of the best perimeter defenders in the association and crucial to the Clippers more or less shutting down Dame Time last season. Not only does L.A. not have said defensive identity but guard Reggie Jackson isn’t an above-average starter and could be in trouble against Lillard.

Slight “LEAN” to the TRAIL BLAZERS (+122) for a tiny wager if at all since Portland plus the points is a much wiser bet and Clippers head coach Ty Lue has the edge over Trail Blazers rookie head coach Chauncey Billups.

Against the spread

BET the TRAIL BLAZERS +2.5 (-105) heavier than or instead of Portland’s money line.

My read on the Clippers is their stock is too high because the market is overemphasizing their awesome playoff performance last year when Kawhi was sidelined with a knee injury.

Lue did an awesome job and maybe continues to do so this season. However, counting on players like Jackson, forward Marcus Morris and guard Luke Kennard could mean the Clippers struggle to have a winning record.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the UNDER 230.5 (-112) for a quarter-unit because it’s the “sharp” side in the total but I wouldn’t put a heavy wager on the Under since we are getting the worst of the number.

This is a “Pros vs. Joe’s” scenario in the betting market as nearly 60% of the cash is on the Under but roughly two-thirds of the bets placed are on the Over, according to Pregame.com.

The presumed “sharp” side of the market has forced oddsmakers to move the Trail Blazers-Clippers total down from the 234-point opener. So, while the Under is the play, a lot of the value is gone.

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.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Chicago Bulls at Toronto Raptors odds, picks and predictions

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

The Chicago Bulls (3-0) take a trip across the border to play the Toronto Raptors (1-2) Monday. Tip-off from Scotiabank Arena is set for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Bulls at Raptors odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Chicago Bulls, with the help of offseason additions PG Lonzo Ball, SG DeMar DeRozan and SG Alex Caruso, have started the season undefeated.

They’ve taken down the Detroit Pistons twice and have a win over the New Orleans Pelicans, so despite their 3-0 start they haven’t exactly had the most pressing schedule. Nonetheless, they’ve handled business and will enter as favorites against the Raptors.

The Raptors are still without All-Star PF Pascal Siakam, giving top-five pick rookie SF Scottie Barnes ample opportunity to shine. The Raps have beaten the Boston Celtics and lost to the Washington Wizards and Dallas Mavericks to start their season.

Bulls 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 12:45 p.m. ET.

Money line: Bulls -130 (bet $130 to win $100) | Raptors +105 (bet $100 to win $105)
Against the spread (ATS): Bulls -1.5 (-120) | Raptors +1.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 211.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Bulls at Raptors key injuries

Bulls

PG Coby White (left shoulder) out
C Nikola Vucevic (illness) questionable

Raptors

PF Pascal Siakam (left shoulder) out

Bulls at Raptors odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bulls 114, Raptors 105

Money line

“LEAN” to the BULLS (-130) here as they’re the most talented and healthy side.

Their trio of offseason additions that have accompanied SG Zach LaVine, PF Patrick Williams and Vucevic have proven to be too much for teams to handle.

While the Bulls haven’t beaten any quality opponents, I wouldn’t count the Raptors as quality either without Siakam. The more talented side should come out on top, and that’s Chicago.

Against the spread

BET on the BULLS -1.5 (-120) as the best value in this game.

The Bulls are surging with LaVine averaging the 12th-most points in the NBA. He’s been terrific, and like with Donavon Mitchell and the Utah Jazz, a true contender can be made with the right players around a score-first guard.

LaVine is going make the Bulls a top team in the East with Caruso, DeRozan, Vucevic, Williams and others by his side. With the Bulls 3-0 against the spread and this being their smallest amount yet, I expect them to make it 4-0.

While the Raptors have quality youth, starting just one player with more than four years of experience should, as they’ve seen, yield inconsistent performances.

With that in mind, the Bulls are the safer play on the spread.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the OVER 212.5 (-112) as the better play on the total. It’s also a little juiced, giving some reassurance the sportsbooks feel it’s also the better bet.

With Barnes and SF OG Anunoby averaging a combined 34 points per game, the Raptors are starting to figure it out. Those two players are really the question mark with the Over hitting.

The two forwards will be asked to shoulder much of the scoring load, and against a Bulls side that gave up 26 to SF Brandon Ingram, I expect one or both to get loose.

Given Chicago’s offensive talent, they should top 105 and even near 110.

The Celtics, Mavs and Wiz all struggled against the Raptors’ stingy defense. Chicago will put their defensive prowess to the test as arguably the best offense they’ve faced so far this 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.

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

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Washington Wizards at Brooklyn Nets odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Washington Wizards at Brooklyn Nets odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Washington Wizards (2-0) visit the Brooklyn Nets (1-2) Monday. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET at Barclays Center. Below, we look at the Wizards vs. Nets odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Nets came into the season as the favorites to win the NBA Finals but have disappointed so far. Brooklyn is led by SF Kevin Durant and SG James Harden and remains without PG Kyrie Irving.

The Nets have received big-time contributions from PF LaMarcus Aldridge and PG Patty Mills, a couple of veterans they bring off the bench. They’ve lost to the Milwaukee Bucks and Charlotte Hornets, both by more than 15 points and defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 114-109.

The Wizards are led by SG Bradley Beal who finished the 2020-2021 season second league-wide in points per game with 31.3.

The Wiz are undefeated, taking down the Indiana Pacers 135-134 in overtime and then also holding the Toronto Raptors to just 83 points in a season-opening road victory. This will be their biggest challenge yet.

Wizards at Nets odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:27 a.m. ET.

Money line: Wizards +230 (bet $100 to win $230) | Nets -300 (bet $300 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Wizards +6.5 (-105) | Nets -6.5 (-120)
Over/Under (O/U): 231.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Wizards at Nets key injuries

Wizards

SG Bradley Beal (right hip) questionable
PF Rui Hachimura (personal) out
C Thomas Bryant (left knee) out

Nets

Nothing affecting betting odds

Wizards at Nets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Nets 118, Wizards 108

Money line

PASS on the money line. While the +230 for the Wizards to pull off an upset is intriguing, a hobbled Beal and no Hachimura would have me looking elsewhere.

Even if the Wizards were at full strength this would likely be a pass as the Nets are just overloaded with talent.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the NETS -6.5 (-120) with it receiving some juice from the sportsbooks.

Again, with the league’s second-leading scorer from a season ago potentially nursing an injury, I’m not liking backing the road team. Also, Durant and Harden haven’t played up to par.

The Nets would be 0-3 if not for a fourth quarter comeback against the Sixers However, at 1-2, they still have two losses of 16 or more points. It’s been an ugly start, and with PF Blake Griffin expected back, the Nets should be looking for a statement win at home.

I believe they get it. Especially with Hachimura out, I expect a big game from Durant as he should be seeing a subpar defender as well.

Over/Under

BET on the UNDER 231.5 (-108) as the best value in this game. Sportsbooks and fans continue to bank on the Nets offense being one of the best in the NBA.

With Harden and Durant, two former scoring title winners both still in their prime, there’s no reason they shouldn’t have topped 115 in any of their three games.

But, they haven’t, and despite the prediction that they hit the mark at home, the Nets defense and a banged-up Wizards team is what should help fuel the Under to hit in this one.

In their sole performance topping 100 so far this season, the Wiz put up 19 threes. I do not see that happening often. Fade the Wizards and back a capable Nets defense here.

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.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Milwaukee Bucks at Indiana Pacers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Milwaukee Bucks at Indiana Pacers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Milwaukee Bucks (2-1) head to Indianapolis to take on the Indiana Pacers (1-2) Monday. Tip-off from Gainbridge Fieldhouse is set for 7 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Bucks vs. Pacers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Commencing the season with their NBA Championship rings presentation, the Bucks went out and pummeled the Brooklyn Nets 127-104. They’ve since lost to the Miami Heat by 42 (137-95) and beat the San Antonio Spurs by 10 (121-111).

The Bucks are led by two-time MVP PF Giannis Antetokoumpo. Giannis is the only Milwaukee player averaging over 20 points per game through the start of the season. The Bucks are among the league’s top three-point shooting rosters with SG Grayson Allen and SG Pat Connaughton.

The Pacers took down the Heat by 11 (102-91) in their last outing Saturday. Both of the Pacers’ losses, to the Charlotte Hornets and the Washington Wizards, have come by just 1 point each.

Led by PF Domantas Sabonis, who is averaging 26 points per game, Indianapolis is a competent side but not one expecting to have title aspirations.

Bucks at Pacers odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Monday at 9:15 a.m. ET.

Money line: Bucks -145 (bet $145 to win $100) | Pacers +120 (bet $100 to win $120)
Against the spread (ATS): Bucks -2.5 (-115) | Pacers +2.5 (-107)
Over/Under (O/U): 229.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Bucks at Pacers key injuries

Bucks

PG Jrue Holiday (left ankle) doubtful
C Brook Lopez (back) out
SG Donte DiVincenzo (left ankle) out
PF Bobby Portis (left hamstring) out

Pacers

SG Caris LeVert (back) out
SF T.J. Warren (left navicular) out

Bucks at Pacers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bucks 118, Pacers 116

Money line

PASS on the total with a slight lean to the Pacers as the Bucks are decimated with injuries.

There’s some value with Indianapolis getting plus money at home, but given how good of a regular-season team Milwaukee is even without Holiday and their slew of role players, I’d still play the points instead.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the PACERS +2.5 (-107) as the best bet on the spread. The Pacers have been competing against quality opponents and have lost by just 1 point in both their defeats.

Coming off an 11-point victory in which they held SF Jimmy Butler to just 19 points and the Heat to just 91, the Pacers should again come out with a competitive nature.

Sabonis might not ever be the best player on a championship-contending team, but he can certainly be one on a top-tier team in the East.

With a plethora of underrated role players like PG Malcolm Brogdon and rookie PG Chris Duarte, the Pacers should be able to keep pace with Milwaukee, especially with C Myles Turner roaming the paint and limiting the Bucks star forward.

Over/Under

BET on the OVER 229.5 (-115) as it’s the better play and has a bit of juice behind it.

The Over is leaned on by the sportsbooks as both sides have shown aggressive offensive play. The Pacers have yet to go under 100 in a game this season and have topped 120 in two of the three.

Milwaukee has one of the best offenses in the NBA as well, clearing 120 in two of three games also. The Bucks have hit at least 15 threes in two of their three games so far.

Given the pace at which this game should be played the Over is the better bet.

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.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Charlotte Hornets at Brooklyn Nets odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Charlotte Hornets at Brooklyn Nets odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

In an action-packed Sunday, the Charlotte Hornets (2-0) visit the Brooklyn Nets (1-1). The game will tip at 4 p.m. ET and will be held at the Barclays Center. Below, we look at the Hornets at Nets odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Nets, after visiting the Bucks and the Sixers, will finally be at home. After being down most of their last outing, SF Kevin Durant came back and covered the spread. The Nets are 1-1 against the spread.

PF LaMarcus Aldridge put up 23 with Durant leading their win over the Sixers. They’ll be heavy favorites at home against a LaMelo Ball-led Hornets.

The Hornets took down the Pacers and then the Cavaliers. They may be without PG Terry Rozier while the Nets will still not have PG Kyrie Irving as he’s out indefinitely.

Hornets at Nets odds, spread and lines

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

Money line: Hornets +340 (bet $100 to win $340) | Nets -475 (bet $475 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Hornets +9.5 (-115) | Nets -9.5 (-107)
Over/Under (O/U): 233.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Hornets at Nets key injuries

Hornets

PG Terry Rozier (right ankle) questionable

Nets

PG Kyrie Irving (personal) out

Hornets at Nets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Nets 116, Hornets 112

Money line

PASS on the money line.

The Nets are good, and they should come out on top, but I’m staying away from any regular-season NBA team that’s -475 on a money line. The value just isn’t there.

Against the spread

BET to the HORNETS +9.5 (-115) as they’ve been solid so far this season. It gets a little juice as well, likely with the Terry Rozier questionable tag looming large over the Hornets offense.

Even without Rozier, Ball is still among the rising stars in the league. SF Miles Bridges has also been productive. With Kelly Oubre Jr. and PJ Washington helping give capable depth, the Hornets have an underrated roster, one that should be able to hang with Brooklyn’s veterans.

Having taken down a solid Pacers team and with a double-figure win over the Cavs, I’m not backing the Hornets to win, but I would back them not to lose by ten.

The Nets are good, but they struggled for most of their game with Philly and were blown out by the Bucks. They’re not quite as in sync as Brooklyn fans would’ve hoped for.

They should come out on top but not by double figures.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the UNDER 233.5 (-110) as the better bet. Both teams like to score, but with Kevin Durant on one side of the court, Bridges likely won’t get 30 against the Nets.

233 is just too many points to back, especially with the Hornets having some young and inconsistent personnel on their bench. We’ve also seen streakiness from James Harden and Joe Harris.

While points should be scored, the Nets have yet to top 115. Their defense also held the Sixers to under 110. I’m expecting at least some defense to be played which should allow the Under to hit.

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

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

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Golden State Warriors at Sacramento Kings odds, picks and prediction

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

The Golden State Warriors (2-0) head over to the state’s capital to play the Sacramento Kings (1-1) for a 9 p.m. ET at Golden 1 Center. Below, we look at the Warriors vs. Kings odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Golden State has beaten both L.A. basketball teams to open its season. First, the Warriors upset the Los Angeles Lakers 121-114 as 3.5-point home underdogs Tuesday then held off the Los Angeles Clippers at home Thursday 115-113 but failed to cover as 4-point favorites.

Sactown lost at home vs. the Utah Jazz 110-101 as a 6-point underdog Friday after beating the Portland Trail Blazers 124-121 as 6.5-point road underdogs Wednesday.

The Warriors won last season’s series vs. the Kings 2-1 but only covered once and, in fact, Sactown is 9-1 against the spread vs. Golden State in the last 10 meetings.

Warriors 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 11:18 a.m. ET.

Money line: Warriors -155 (bet $155 to win $100) | Kings +125 (bet $100 to win $125)
Against the spread (ATS): Warriors -3.5 (-108) | Kings +3.5 (-112)
Over/Under (O/U): 234.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Warriors at Kings key injuries

Warriors

SF Andre Iguodala (hip) questionable
SG Klay Thompson (Achilles) out
C James Wiseman (knee) out
SF Jonathan Kuminga (knee) out

Kings

None

Warriors at Kings odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Kings 121, Warriors 116

Money line

PASS with a slight “lean” to the Kings (+125) because I think Sactown covers the spread, but the money line payout isn’t fat enough.

Another reason why I cannot get behind the Kings winning this game outright is how well Steph Curry plays against Sactown and De’Aaron Fox.

In their five all-time head-to-head meetings, Curry is 5-0 while averaging 33.2 points per game (PPG), 6.0 rebounds per game (RPG) and 5.8 assists per game (APG). Fox is averaging just 17.0 PPG on 39.2% shooting.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the KINGS +3.5 (-112) for a half unit because Sactown usually keeps it close with its Northern California neighbors.

Also, Kings head coach Luke Walton previously worked on Warriors head coach Steve Kerr’s staff, which probably factors into Sactown covering two of three meetings with Golden State last season.

More importantly, this is a “Pros vs. Joe’s” game in the betting market. According to Pregame.com, more than three-fourths of the cash wagered is on the Kings, but nearly 85% of the bets placed are on the Warriors.

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

However, this is more of a “LEAN” on the KINGS +3.5 (-112) because the Warriors have looked like an elite thus far.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the OVER 234.5 (-108) because it’s been hit by “sharp line movement” that has caused oddsmakers to move to the Warriors-Kings total up from the 231-point opener.

Furthermore, the Kings have played the third-highest rate of Overs at home since the start of 2019 at 38-29-1 O/U.

It’s only a “lean” because the Warriors have played the highest rate of Under on the road since 2019 at 28-41 O/U and we are getting the worst of the number.

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

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

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Memphis Grizzlies at Los Angeles Lakers odds, picks and prediction

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

The Memphis Grizzlies (2-0) play their second straight game at the Staples Center Sunday when they meet the Los Angeles Lakers (0-2) for a 9:30 p.m. ET tip-off. Below, we look at the Grizzlies vs. Lakers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

Memphis upended the Los Angeles Clippers 120-114 Saturday in its first game at Staples Center. Every Grizzly in the Memphis’s starting 5 scored at least 17 points and Ja Morant had team-highs in points (28) and assists (8).

The Lakers got drubbed in their first two games and both were more lopsided affairs than the final score indicates. L.A. got rolled by the Phoenix Suns 115-105 as a 2-point home favorite Friday and was beaten 121-114 by the Golden State Warriors in its season-opener Tuesday.

L.A. won all three and covered two regular-season meetings with Memphis last season. The Grizzlies are 1-6 overall and 3-4 against the spread (ATS) versus the Lakers since drafting Morant in 2019.

Grizzlies at Lakers odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:25 a.m. ET.

Money line: Grizzlies +165 (bet $100 to win $165) | Lakers -205 (bet $205 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Grizzlies +4.5 (-102) | Lakers -4.5 (-122)
Over/Under (O/U): 224.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Grizzlies at Lakers key injuries

Grizzlies

SG Dillon Brooks (hand) doubtful

Lakers

SF Trevor Ariza (ankle) out
SG Wayne Ellington (hamstring) out
SF Talen Horton-Tucker (thumb) out
SG Kendrick Nunn (knee) out

Grizzlies at Lakers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Grizzlies 116, Lakers 106

Money line

Slight “LEAN” to the GRIZZLIES (+165) for a tiny wager only because I love Memphis getting points in this spot.

At best, the Lakers need time to incorporate their new pieces with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. At worst, this was a poorly built team that’s going to struggle to make the playoff play-in tournament.

I lean towards the latter because the Lakers failed to surround LeBron with 3-point specialists this offseason and this roster has a very low defensive ceiling as currently built. L.A. needs AD to become the best defensive player in the Association.

Maybe this is an overreaction but I don’t like what I’m seeing in “LaLa Land” especially after watching the Suns-Lakers game Friday.

AD and first-year Lakers big Dwight Howard got into a minor altercation on the bench Friday, Lakers’ returnee Rajon Rondo had a back-and-forth with a fan courtside and LeBron was chirping with Suns backup PG Cameron Payne.

This is all narrative and LeBron feeds off naysayers in the media. However, I’m buying stock in Memphis and there’s a solid chance a GRIZZLIES (+165) ticket cashes Sunday night.

Against the spread

Definitely BET GRIZZLIES +4.5 (-102) heavier than or instead of Memphis’s money line.

There’s no one on the Lakers that can stay in front of Morant. He’s going to get into the mid-range or to the basket and collapse L.A.’s defense all game long.

We also have “reverse line movement” (RLM) in the betting market, according to Pregame.com. More than 75% of the money wagered is on the Lakers at the time of publishing, but L.A. has been reduced from a 6.5-point favorite to the current price.

It makes sense that one of the most popular teams in American sports with LeBron would be heavily bet. What doesn’t make sense is why the sportsbooks are making the more popular side cheaper. Well, it kind of makes sense. The RLM tells me the House wants more pro-Lakers bets.

GRIZZLIES +4.5 (-102) is my favorite play in this game.

Over/Under

PASS with a slight “lean” to the Under 224.5 (-108) because this Lakers offense is really disorganized thus far. LeBron and AD have looked awesome through two games but the Lakers essentially waved the white flag mid-way through the fourth quarter of both losses.

However, there’s been sharp line movement towards the Over and the total is up from the 221-point opener. I’d rather just hammer the Memphis sides than play the total in this contest.

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.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Memphis Grizzlies at Los Angeles Clippers odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Saturday’s Memphis Grizzlies at Los Angeles Clippers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Memphis Grizzlies (1-0) stop by the Staples Center Saturday for a 10 p.m. ET tip-off against the Los Angeles Clippers (0-1). Below, we look at the Grizzlies vs. Clippers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

Memphis opened its season Thursday with a 132-121 blowout of the Cleveland Cavaliers as a 7-point road favorite. Grizzlies guard Ja Morant scored 37 points on 58.6% field goal shooting with 6 boards and 6 assists.

L.A. lost a 115-113 nail-biter at the Golden State Warriors Thursday but covered as a 4-point road underdog. Clippers wing Paul George put up team-highs in points (29) and rebounds (11) and added 6 assists.

All three Grizzlies-Clippers meetings last season ended in double-digit margins with L.A. winning the season series 2-1 and the Under cashing in each game.

Grizzlies 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 1:50 p.m. ET.

Money line: Grizzlies +145 (bet $100 to win $145) | Clippers -180 (bet $180 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Grizzlies +4.5 (-115) | Clippers -4.5 (-107)
Over/Under (O/U): 226.5 (O: -107 | U: -115)

Grizzlies at Clippers key injuries

Grizzlies

SG Dillon Brooks (hand) out

Clippers

C Serge Ibaka (back) out
SF Kawhi Leonard (knee) out

Grizzlies at Clippers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Grizzlies 120, Clippers 113

Money line

“SPRINKLE” a tiny wager on the GRIZZLIES (+145) because I “like” Memphis plus the points and see a little value in the underdog’s money line.

The Grizzlies have the personnel to match up against any lineup Clippers head coach Ty Lue can throw out there. Memphis has much better ball security and should dominate L.A. on the glass.

The Grizzlies were sixth in offensive turnover rate and seventh in defensive turnover rate last season while the Clippers ranked 14th in offensive turnover rate and 19th in defensive turnover rate.

Memphis picked up big Steven Adams during the offseason whose interior presence and toughness has improved his team’s rebounding each year of his career.

The Grizzlies have done a good job defending PG since he joined the Clippers. Two years ago, PG averaged 14.5 points per game (PPG) on 53.9% true shooting (.423/.313/1.000) and a minus-10 net rating in two games against Memphis. Last season, PG averaged 13 PPG on 50.7% true shooting (.391/.222/1.000) with a minus-3 net rating in two games against the Grizzlies.

Against the spread

Definitely BET the GRIZZLIES +4.5 (-115) heavier than or instead of Memphis’s money line based on the previous analysis. Furthermore, the Grizzlies have covered 54.9% of their road games since the start of 2019 (39-32-1 ATS) and 52.1% of their games as an underdog (49-45-1 ATS).

There’s a notable “line freeze” in the betting market. More than 80% of the cash is on the Clippers according to pregame.com at the time of writing, but the line hasn’t budged from the opener,

Every other game on the NBA slate has line movement. It’s suspicious whenever the House doesn’t move the line in response to such a lopsided betting market. It feels as though oddsmakers are comfortable with taking more pro-Clippers money.

GRIZZLIES +4.5 (-115) is my favorite bet in this game.

Over/Under

PASS with a slight “lean” to the Over 226.5 (-110). What’s holding me back is we are also seeing a “line freeze” for the total of the Grizzlies-Clippers.

However, I think L.A. plays a lot of small ball to run Adams off the court and Memphis will keep pace with the Clippers. A faster pace equals more possession, which should mean more points.

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.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Phoenix Suns at Portland Trail Blazers odds, picks and prediction

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

The Phoenix Suns (1-1) play the second of back-to-back road games when they face the Portland Trail Blazers (0-1) Saturday. Tip-off is 10 p.m. ET at Moda Center. Below, we look at the Suns vs. Trail Blazers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Suns lost their season opener at home 110-98 to the Denver Nuggets but bounced back with a 115-105 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on the road. PG Chris Paul made history in the win as he became the first player to ever reach 20,000 points and 10,000 assists in a career. Three Suns players had more than 20 points in the victory.

The Trail Blazers lost their season opener at home 124-121 to the Sacramento Kings. PG Damian Lillard scored 20 points but went 0-for-9 on three-point shots.

Suns 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 11:15 a.m. ET.

Money line: Suns +115 (bet $100 to win $115) | Trail Blazers -140 (bet $140 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Suns +2.5 (-110) | Trail Blazers -2.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 230.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Suns at Trail Blazers key injuries

Suns

G Landry Shamet (foot) probable

Trail Blazers

SG Tony Snell (foot) out

Suns at Trail Blazers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Suns 120, Trail Blazers 118

Money line

The Suns found their rhythm Friday against the Lakers leading by as much as 32 points. They had three players score at least 20 points and held the Lakers to under 40% shooting.

The Blazers lost all three games to the Suns last season. Lillard will hit more threes than in the season opener but this promises to be a down-to-the-wire game.

However, I LEAN SUNS (+115).

Against the spread

The Suns were 12-5 overall and 10-7 ATS on the second night of a back-to-back last year while going 9-5 ATS with a rest disadvantage – the scenario they’re in tonight.

They are now 1-0 ATS as underdogs this year and went 12-9 ATS as an underdog last season.

Portland was only 16-23 ATS last season at home.

Take the SUNS +2.5 (-110).

Over/Under

All three games between the Suns and the Trail Blazers last season had totals of at least 232 points. The Suns’ two games this year have stayed Under the projected totals but Suns-Blazers games almost always have the promise of high-scoring, competitive games.

Take OVER 231.5 (-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 Jess Root on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]