NBA money line against the spread ATS Over Under OU total – Page 302

Atlanta Hawks at Cleveland Cavaliers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Atlanta Hawks at Cleveland Cavaliers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Atlanta Hawks (1-0) travel to face the Cleveland Cavaliers (0-2) at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse Saturday at 6 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Hawks vs. Cavaliers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Hawks rolled up a 113-87 win over the visiting Dallas Mavericks in their regular-season opener Thursday, easily covering the 2.5-point number with the Under (225) never in question.

The Cavaliers have dropped a pair of games to start the season, both by 11 points. That includes a 123-112 loss in the home opener against the Charlotte Hornets on Friday night. The Over is 2-0 so far for the Cavs.

Hawks 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 7:02 a.m. ET.

Money line: Hawks -350 (bet $350 to win $100) | Cavaliers +265 (bet $100 to win $265)
Against the spread (ATS): Hawks -7.5 (-107) | Cavaliers +7.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 222.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Hawks at Cavaliers key injuries

Hawks

SF Danilo Gallinari (shoulder) questionable

Cavaliers

Nothing that affects the gambling odds.

Hawks at Cavaliers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Hawks 126, Cavaliers 110

Money line

The Hawks (-350) will cost you three and a half times your potential return, and that’s too risky for a road team, even against a Cavaliers (+265) team playing the second end of a back-to-back.

AVOID, and look to the spread instead.

Against the spread

The HAWKS -7.5 (-107) are worth a look, as the Cavaliers +7.5 (-115) have dropped each of their first two games by exactly 11 points.

Cleveland will be playing with the quick turnaround, and even for a young team early in the season, that’s a difficult obstacle to overcome. Bank on the road team.

Over/Under

The OVER 222.5 (-110) is the play, as the Cavaliers have really struggled defensively across the first two games. And that’s playing with regular rest. With a quick turnaround in less than 24 hours against a tough team, the Cleveland D is going to get bludgeoned yet again.

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Brooklyn Nets at Philadelphia 76ers odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Friday’s Brooklyn Nets at Philadelphia 76ers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Brooklyn Nets (0-1) travel to the “City of Brotherly Love” Friday for a 7:30 p.m. ET tip-off with the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center. Below, we look at the Nets vs. 76ers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

Brooklyn lost in the NBA’s season opener 127-104 Thursday at the Milwaukee Bucks as 1.5-point road underdogs. The Nets got boat raced despite outshooting the Bucks 53.1-37.8 percent from three-point land and outscoring them 22-2 in points off of turnovers.

Philly rolled a Zion Williamson-less New Orleans Pelicans 117-97 Wednesday as 3.5-point road favorites. The Sixers outshot the Pelicans from everywhere on the floor and had four players score at least 20 points.

The 76ers won two of three regular-season meetings with the Nets last year but only covered the spread once and Kevin Durant didn’t play in any of those games.

Nets at 76ers 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 p.m. ET.

Money line: Nets -150 (bet $150 to win $100) | 76ers +122 (bet $100 to win $122)
Against the spread (ATS): Nets -3.5 (-107) | 76ers +3.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 225.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Nets at 76ers key injuries

Nets

PG Kyrie Irving (personal) out

76ers

C Joel Embiid (knee) questionable
G Shake Milton (ankle) out
PG Ben Simmons (personal) out

Nets at 76ers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

76ers 119, Nets 113

Money line

Slight “LEAN” to the 76ERS (+122) because there’s more value in Philly plus the points than the money line.

However, Joel Embiid dominated Brooklyn last season and the Nets didn’t bring in any defensive bigs this offseason. Embiid averaged 30.7 points per game on .469/.400/.867 shooting with 11.7 rebounds per game in the three Nets-76ers games last year.

If Embiid has similar success Friday, and he should, then Philly’s three-point specialists should have some wide-open looks. Also, it feels like the Sixers are more in sync than the Nets.

Both teams are dealing with off-the-court issues but I get the sense that Philly is rallying in spite of the Simmons drama whereas Brooklyn is still trying to sort itself out without Kyrie.

Against the spread

BET 1 unit on the 76ers +3.5 (-115) based on the analysis above and because Philly has performed well in this spot over recent seasons.

For example, the Sixers are 6-0-1 ATS with a plus-8.1-point spread differential as a home underdog since the beginning of 2019. Also, Philly has the best home ATS record in the Association over that span.

Furthermore, Philly is one of the rowdiest sports cities in America and I’m expecting the Sixers fans to take out their frustration with Ben Simmons on the Nets Friday night.

Embiid will feed off the crowd and Philly’s home-court advantage will help the 76ers +3.5 (-115) cash.

Over/Under

PASS with a slight “lean” to the Over 225.5 (-110) because both teams have All-NBA-caliber talent and role players that can knock down open jumpers.

That said, we’re seeing heavy “reverse line movement” in the betting markets. According to Pregame.com, most of the action is on the Over but the total has been lowered from the 229.5-point opener to the current number.

I don’t have to figure out why sportsbooks are making the more popular side cheaper. Instead, I can just PASS 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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San Antonio Spurs at Denver Nuggets odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Friday’s San Antonio Spurs at Denver Nuggets odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The San Antonio Spurs (1-0) are in “Mile High City” Friday to play the Denver Nuggets (1-0) at Ball Arena. Tip-off is scheduled for 9 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Spurs vs. Nuggets odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

San Antonio crushed the Orlando Magic 123-97 Thursday. The Spurs outshot the Magic 50.0-40.7 percent from the field and had way better ball security. San Antonio threw 32 assists to 8 turnovers while Orlando had just 17 assists with 16 turnovers.

Denver rallied back from a 7-point first-half deficit to beat the Phoenix Suns 110-98 Thursday. Reigning NBA MVP Nikola Jokic put up 27 points on 13-of-22 shooting with 13 rebounds vs. the Suns.

The Nuggets have beaten the Spurs in five of their last six meetings, including two of three last season but are just 3-3 against the spread in those games.

Spurs 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 3:30 p.m. ET.

Money line: Spurs +290 (bet $100 to win $290) | Nuggets -380 (bet $380 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Spurs +7.5 (-108) | Nuggets -7.5 (-112)
Over/Under (O/U): 220.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Spurs at Nuggets key injuries

Spurs

Nothing affecting gambling odds.

Nuggets

PG Jamal Murray (knee) out

Spurs at Nuggets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Nuggets 121, Spurs 117

Money line

PASS with a slight “lean” toward the Spurs (+270) because I “like” San Antonio plus the points and generally sprinkle on the underdog’s money line when taking them to cover.

However, the Nuggets are 5-1 overall vs. the Spurs in their last six meetings and Jokic balled vs. San Antonio last season. In three Spurs-Nuggets meetings last year, Jokic averaged 28.7 points, 10.7 rebounds and 9.7 assists per game.

Since Jokic is by far the best player on the court and the Nuggets are playing in their home opener, I’ll just bet the Spurs to cover the spread.

Against the spread

BET the SPURS +7.5 (-108) for 1 unit because this is a “Pros vs. Joe’s” game in the betting market and I don’t trust Denver’s defense.

For instance, according to Pregame.com, more than three-fourths of the cash wagered is on San Antonio but nearly 60 percent of the bets placed are on the Nuggets at the time of publishing. It’s can profitable in sports betting to follow the money when it’s counter to the public.

Also, the Spurs have a lot of three-point shooters on the roster and the Nuggets have ranked 19th or worse in opponent 3-point volume in each of the past four seasons (according to CleaningTheGlass.com).

If Denver doesn’t run San Antonio off the 3-point line then the SPURS +7.5 (-110) is cashing and they can steal the game outright.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the OVER 220.5 (-110) for a half unit because I’m much more confident in San Antonio covering than the total in this contest.

But, the Over has cashed in four of the past five Spurs-Nuggets meetings. Plus there’s been sharp line movement towards the Over since the total has been bet up from the 219-point opener.

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 prediction

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

The Toronto Raptors (0-1) drop by TD Garden Friday for a 7:30 p.m. ET game against the Boston Celtics (0-1). Below, we look at the Raptors vs. Celtics odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Toronto got clubbed by the Washington Wizards 98-83 in its season opener as a 2.5-point home favorite. The Raptors held the Wizards to just 19% from behind the arc but were outscored 56-40 in the paint.

Boston lost a thrilling double-overtime game 138-134 at the New York Knicks Wednesday. Guard Jaylen Brown scored 46 points on 16-for-30 shooting with 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Like Toronto, Boston lost its season opener because New York outscored the Celtics 60-42 in the paint.

Boston beat Toronto in all three regular-season meetings last year (2-1 against the spread). Forward Jayson Tatum had his way with the Raptors last season, averaging 28.0 points per game on 70.3% true shooting (.532/.529/.862) with 8.0 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game.

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 2:10 p.m. ET.

Money line: Raptors +220 (bet $100 to win $220) | Celtics -280 (bet $280 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Raptors +6.5 (-110) | Celtics -6.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 218.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Raptors at Celtics key injuries

Raptors

PF Pascal Siakam (shoulder) out

Celtics

SG Josh Richardson (head) probable
PG Marcus Smart (knee) probable
C Al Horford (reconditioning) questionable

Raptors at Celtics odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Celtics 112, Raptors 102

Money line

PASS because Boston is the right side in this game but the Celtics (-220) is a little out of my price range for most favorites in NBA regular-season action.

Against the spread

BET the CELTICS -6.5 (-110) for 1 unit because I’m much lower on Toronto’s roster this season than Boston’s and I expect a bounce-back game from Tatum after a rough opening night.

Tatum crushed the Raptors last season and Toronto’s wing defense has to be weakened with Siakam out of the lineup. Tatum was 7-of-30 against the Knicks Thursday and missed a whole bunch of shots he usually makes.

I have more faith in Boston’s ability to play interior defense than Toronto’s. The Celtics have a quality rim protector in C Robert Williams and should be getting Horford back Friday.

VanVleet being the focal point of Toronto’s offense is concerning for the long term and in this matchup. Celtics guard Marcus Smart has defended VanVleet well when they’ve met.

VanVleet is scoring just 7.7 points per game on 23.9% field goal shooting (25.0% 3-point shooting) against Smart in their six meetings.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the UNDER 218.5 (-112) for a half unit because this is a “Pros vs. Joe’s” game with the presumed sharp money backing the Under but the public is betting the Over according to Pregame.com at the time of publishing.

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

Toronto scored just 83 points against a Washington team who’s been terrible defensively for the past few seasons and is incorporating new players into its scheme.

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 Orlando Magic odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s New York Knicks at Orlando Magic odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The New York Knicks (1-0) head south to take on the Orlando Magic (0-1) Friday. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET from Amway Center. Below, we look at the Knicks vs. Magic odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Knicks, who were one of the best Against The Spread teams in the NBA last season, are coming off a thrilling double-overtime win over the Boston Celtics and look to continue their dominance in their second game. New York is led by F Julius Randle and enters as a heavy favorite despite being on the road.

Center Mohamed Bamba and G Cole Anthony lead the Magic with F Jonathan Isaac sidelined. Orlando started the season with a brutal 26-point road loss to the San Antonio Spurs. The Magic started two rookies — Guards Franz Wagner and Jalen Suggs — along with Anthony in the defeat as they remain at the beginning of a lengthy rebuild.

Knicks 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 10:25 a.m. ET.

Money line: Knicks -320 (bet $320 to win $100) | Magic +250 (bet $100 to win $250)
Against the spread (ATS): Knicks -7.5 (-110) | Magic -7.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 212.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Knicks at Magic key injuries

Knicks

PF Taj Gibson (personal reasons) questionable
C Nerlens Noel (left knee) out

Magic

PG Markelle Fultz (left knee) out
SG Gary Harris (right hamstring) out
PF Jonathan Isaac (left knee) out
SG E’Twaun Moore (left knee) out
PF Chuma Okeke (right hip) out
PG Michael Carter-Williams (left ankle) out

Knicks at Magic odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Knicks 106, Magic 97

Money line

PASS on the money line.

There’s just not much value in Knicks -320. They should win this game against a heavily injured Magic team that started two rookies in a blowout loss to the Spurs.

However, odds this steep on the money line shouldn’t be considered as upsets run rampant in the NBA.

Against the spread

BET on the KNICKS -7.5 (-110) as the best value. After covering a 2.5-point spread in double overtime at home against the Celtics, New York hits the road for the first time.

While I do love the Knicks, PF Julius Randle, PG Derrick Rose, and others like SG Alec Burks and SG Evan Fournier don’t quite get it done against elite competition, as was shown in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs.

However, the Magic aren’t elite competition, and the Knicks did have the fourth-best defensive rating in the NBA last season. That’s really all you need to know.

The Magic will again start two rookies against a mighty defense. That’s a recipe for disaster as no player reached 20 points as the team failed to score 100 in their season opener at San Antonio.

Did you see the above injury report? That’s just disastrous for the home team.

I’m siding with the team that has actual expectations this season against one with multiple rookies that relies on Mo Bamba for scoring.

It’s just the better bet in this instance. The line opened at -6, and is up as -8 in some places, so bettors are going heavy on New York.

Over/Under

“LEAN” on the UNDER 212.5 (-110).

The Magic only mustered 97 points in their opener, and while the Knicks did put up 138 against the Celtics, they also did have the 22nd-best offensive rating last year and the game went to double overtime.

Randle, Rose, Burks, and Fournier are all certainly capable of having an off night which is why money line wagers aren’t ideal. Randle and Fournier combining for 67 a second game is unlikely.

However, the Knicks’ defense and the Magic’s injuries to go with their youth point all things to the Under for a comfortable half unit 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.

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Phoenix Suns at Los Angeles Lakers odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Friday’s Phoenix Suns at Los Angeles Lakers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Phoenix Suns (0-1) seek their first win of the season Friday on the road against the winless Los Angeles Lakers (0-1). Tip-off is set for 10 p.m. ET at Staples Center. Below, we look at the Suns vs. Lakers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Suns kicked off the season Wednesday with a 110-98 home loss to the Denver Nuggets. Phoenix held a 16-point lead late in the second quarter they scored only 40 points in the second half. Guard Devin Booker struggled as he shot 3-for-15 from the floor for just 12 points.

The Lakers also lost their season opener at home as they fell 121-114 to the Golden State Warriors. Warriors G Stephen Curry had a triple-double against them and five other Warriors scored in double digits. The Lakers had a huge game from F LeBron James, who scored 34 and had a triple-double of his own, and F Anthony Davis, who added 33 points and 11 boards, but no one else scored more than 8 points.

Suns 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 8:20 a.m. ET.

Money line: Suns -108 (bet $108 to win $100) | Lakers -112 (bet $112 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Suns +1.5 (-122) | Lakers -1.5 (-102)
Over/Under (O/U): 220.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Suns at Lakers key injuries

Suns

G Landry Shamet (foot) probable

Lakers

F Trevor Ariza (foot) out
SG Wayne Ellington (hamstring) out
PG Kendrick Nunn (knee) out

Suns at Lakers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Suns 115, Lakers 111

Money line

The Suns had an awful game from Booker and no one scored more than 16 points in their season-opening loss to the Nuggets. He will have a bounce-back game and that will make all the difference. Phoenix had the league’s best road record last season at 30-17, including the playoffs.

The Lakers are a tough matchup in the frontcourt with James and Davis, and the addition of G Russell Westbrook – who only had eight points in his Lakers debut – can cancel out Suns G Chris Paul in terms of production, but they don’t have someone to stop Booker.

Take the SUNS (-108).

Against the spread

It is hard to see either one of these conference favorites to start the season 0-2, but the Lakers have a lot of new faces to find a rhythm with. The Suns are largely the same team, although they added Shamet and former Lakers C JaVale McGee.

Phoenix had the league’s second-best cover percentage last season at 59.1%, while the Lakers had the third-worst at 43.6%, including the playoffs.

Take the SUNS +1.5 (-122).

Over/Under

The Suns’ Over percentage a season ago was 55.4%, the fourth-highest in the league, while the Lakers had the lowest at 39.5%, including the playoffs. However, the projected total tonight is too low.

The Lakers’ season opener had a total of 235 and the Suns’ opener was 208 – but the Suns only shot 41% from the field. That will not be the norm for this team.

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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Los Angeles Clippers at Golden State Warriors odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Thursday’s Los Angeles Clippers at Golden State Warriors odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Los Angeles Clippers open their regular season by visiting the Golden State Warriors (1-0) Thursday at the Chase Center. Tip-off is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Clippers vs. Warriors odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

L.A. advanced all the way to the Western Conference Finals despite losing leading scorer SF Kawhi Leonard to injury in the conference semifinals. The Clippers lost to the Phoenix Suns 4-2 in the conference finals and Kawhi remains sidelined to start the season.

The Clippers finished the season 57-34 overall, 50-40-1 against the spread (ATS) and 44-45-2 Over/Under (O/U), including the postseason.

The Warriors opened their season with a 121-114 upset of the Los Angeles Lakers Tuesday on NBA’s opening night as 3.5-point road underdogs.

Golden State’s depth was the difference in the game as the Warriors’ bench outscored the Lakers’ 55-29 as Steph Curry only scored 21 points on 5-of-21 shooting.

L.A. won and covered in two of the three regular-season meetings last year with Golden State. The Clippers had the same straight-up and ATS record vs. the Warriors the year prior, which was the first season Kawhi and Paul George played for L.A.

Clippers 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 11:20 a.m. ET.

Money line: Clippers +130 (bet $100 to win $130) | Warriors -160 (bet $160 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Clippers +3.5 (-112) | Warriors -3.5 (-108)
Over/Under (O/U): 227.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Clippers at Warriors key injuries

Clippers

SF Kawhi Leonard (knee) out
PF Serge Ibaka (back) out
SF Nicolas Batum (personal) out
PG Jason Preston (foot)

Warriors

SG Klay Thompson (Achilles) out
C James Wiseman (knee) out
SF Jonathan Kuminga (knee) out

Clippers at Warriors odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Clippers 119, Warriors 112

Money line

PASS with a slight “lean” to the Clippers (+130) because I’m going to bet L.A. plus the points and generally like to sprinkle on an underdog’s money line when betting them to cover.

The Clippers were 4-8 overall as a road underdog last season, and the Warriors were 15-5 overall as a home favorite with a plus-9.2 margin of victory.

Plus I’m skeptical that L.A. can just pick up where it left off in the playoffs and be the team that upset the Utah Jazz without Kawhi. It was an awesome story last season but does that carry over into this year?

Against the spread

BET the CLIPPERS +3.5 (112) for 1 unit.

This is a “Pros vs. Joe’s” game with the presumed sharp money backing the Clippers whereas a majority of the bets placed are on the Warriors, according to Pregame.com at the time of publishing.

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

Wednesday had five NBA games where the sharp money was oppo the public on the opening line; the money column went 4-1, according to Pregame.com.

The Lakers got a ton of open looks against the Warriors Tuesday but aren’t nearly as good of a 3-point shooting team as the Clippers. In fact, the Clippers led the NBA in 3-point shooting last season. G/F Paul George was fantastic last season against Golden State and Curry was subpar vs. L.A.

PG averaged 21.0 points per game (PPG) on 64.2% true shooting (.452/.526/.938) with 7.7 rebounds per game and 4.7 assists per game (APG) in three games against the Warriors. While Curry put up 21.3 PPG on 53.3% true shooting (.421/.393/.667) with 6.3 APG in his three games vs. L.A.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the OVER 227.5 (-108) for a half unit because I prefer L.A. getting points more than the total in this game.

I expect the Clippers to play looser and shoot a higher volume of 3-pointers while Kawhi is sidelined with injury. Also, the Clippers-Warriors total opened with a 226.5-point total before “sharp” money has steamed this number up to the current price.

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 Atlanta Hawks odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Thursday’s Dallas Mavericks at Atlanta Hawks odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Dallas Mavericks and Atlanta Hawks open up their 2021-22 seasons with a 7:30 p.m. ET tip-off at State Farm Arena in Atlanta Thursday. Below, we look at the Mavericks vs. Hawks odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Dallas blew a 2-0 lead in its Western Conference first-round playoff series as it lost in seven games to the Los Angeles Clippers last year. The Mavs finished last season 45-34 overall, 38-41 against the spread (ATS) and 37-42 Over/Under (O/U), including the postseason.

Atlanta fans are hoping their team’s run to the Eastern Conference Finals last season is a sign of things to come. The Hawks were 51-39 overall, 49-40-1 ATS 39-49-2 O/U last season (including the playoffs).

The Hawks lost in six games in the conference finals to the champion Milwaukee Bucks after beating the New York Knicks in the first round and upsetting the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.

The Mavericks won both regular-season meetings against the Hawks last year but Atlanta covered the second game as a 3.5-point road underdog in a 118-117 loss.

Guards Luka Doncic and Trae Young were traded for each other on the night of the 2018 NBA Draft. They’ve played four times thus far and the Mavs are 3-1 in those games.

Mavericks at Hawks 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: Mavericks +115 (bet $100 to win $115) | Hawks -140 (bet $140 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Mavericks +2.5 (-108) | Hawks -2.5 (-112)
Over/Under (O/U): 224.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Mavericks at Hawks key injuries

Mavericks

None.

Hawks

SF Danilo Gallinari (shoulder) questionable
SG Lou Williams (hip) questionable
C Onyeka Okongwu (shoulder) out
PF Jalen Johnson (ankle) probable

Mavericks at Hawks odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Hawks 113, Mavericks 108

Money line

BET the HAWKS (-140) for 1 unit because they have a deeper roster and we have to see how the Mavericks look under first-year head coach Jason Kidd.

Dallas is very reliant on Doncic and I have little confidence the Mavs can win if he’s not the best player on the floor. While Luka is the best player on the floor in this game the next six best players are on Atlanta’s roster.

The Hawks were 29-13 overall as a favorite and 21-5 overall as a home favorite last season (including the playoffs) despite changing coaches in the middle of the season.

I’m higher on Atlanta’s roster, continuity and coaching staff than Dallas’s so I’m willing to spend a little more for the HAWKS (-140) outright.

Against the spread

PASS with a slight “lean” to the Hawks -2.5 (-112) only because I’d prefer to lay it with Atlanta’s money line than bet the spread.

I could understand playing the spread instead if you felt the Hawks (-140) straight-up is a little too pricey. However, Atlanta is the correct side and the best option is the money line.

Over/Under

BET the UNDER 224.5 (-108) for 1 unit despite the Mavericks-Hawks total being kind of low considering these teams combined for 235 and 238 points in their two regular-season meetings last year.

Dallas was 5-14 O/U as a road underdog in 2020-21 and Atlanta was 8-17-1 O/U as a home favorite with a minus-7.2 total margin.

More than 95% of the money at the time of publishing is on the Over but the total hasn’t really budged from the opener.

Granted, it’s early in the betting day and if that money keeps pouring in on the Over the House will adjust. However, it would appear as though oddsmakers are comfy with the total they set for the Mavericks-Hawks.

Let’s fade the market and BET UNDER 224.5 (-108).

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 Miami Heat odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Thursday’s Milwaukee Bucks at Miami Heat odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Miami Heat are one of the last teams to open their season as they host the defending champion Milwaukee Bucks (1-0) Thursday. Tip-off is set for 8 p.m. ET at FTX Arena. Below, we look at the Bucks vs. Heat odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Bucks played in the league’s season opener at home Tuesday when they defeated the Brooklyn Nets 127-104. F Giannis Antetokounmpo led the way with 32 points, 14 rebounds and 7 assists, while F/G Khris Middleton added 20 points and 9 boards.

The Heat begin their season after trading for PG Kyle Lowry and signing F P.J. Tucker and F Markieff Morris in the off-season, giving them more firepower and toughness to help F Jimmy Butler. They finished 40-32 last season and made the playoffs as the No. 6 seed in the Eastern Conference but were swept by the Bucks in the first round.

Bucks at Heat odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:05 a.m. ET.

Money line: Bucks -140 (bet $140 to win $100) | Heat +115 (bet $100 to win $115)
Against the spread (ATS): Bucks -2.5 (-112) | Heat +2.5 (-108)
Over/Under (O/U): 223.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Bucks at Heat key injuries

Bucks

F Bobby Portis (hamstring) out
SG Donte DiVincenzo (ankle) out
SF Rodney Hood (foot) out
PG Jrue Holiday (heel) probable

Heat

PG Victor Oladipo (knee) out

Bucks at Heat odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bucks 112, Heat 104

Money line

The Bucks picked up where they left off last year in winning the championship with a big win at home over the Nets. They were 2-1 last season against the Heat in the regular season before sweeping them in four games in the first round of the playoffs, going 3-1 overall in Miami. The Bucks were only okay on the road last season as they finished 20-16 overall.

The Heat debut their season with their new roster. Gone is G Goran Dragic and in is Lowry at point guard. They were 21-15 at home.

With the Bucks already looking like they were in rhythm in their season opener, take MILWAUKEE (-140).

Against the spread

The Bucks finished at 46-49 ATS last season, including the playoffs, and had one of the worst road ATS records in the league at 20-28 ATS.

The Heat were 35-39-2 ATS overall last season and 15-21-2 ATS at home.

With a Bucks team playing well with a lot of continuity and a Heat team that will need to find its way with new players, take the BUCKS -2.5 (-112).

Over/Under

The Bucks allowed only 104 points in their season opener but rolled against the Nets and their notoriously porous defense for 127.

All three of their regular-season games last year, but just one of their four meetings in the postseason, had totals higher than tonight’s projected number.

However, I expect the Heat to be able to limit the Bucks more than the Nets did. It won’t be enough to beat them but Milwaukee will have to battle in a lower-scoring game.

Take UNDER 223.5 (-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.

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Denver Nuggets at Phoenix Suns odds, picks and prediction

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

The Phoenix Suns host the Denver Nuggets Wednesday at Footprint Center for both teams’ regular-season openers. Tip-off is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Nuggets vs. Suns odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Denver’s season ended last year after being swept in the Western Conference Semifinals by Phoenix. The Nuggets failed to cover the spread in their four series losses to the Suns but were 2-1 overall and against the spread (ATS) vs. Phoenix in the regular season.

The Nuggets ended the regular season third place in the West and finished the season 51-31 overall record (38-44 ATS), which includes the postseason.

The Suns are running it back with the same team that finished second in the Western Conference last season with a 65-29 overall record (55-38-1 ATS), which includes the postseason.

Last year was Chris Paul‘s first with Phoenix and the Suns were beat by the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA Finals, 4-2.

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 12:30 p.m. ET.

Money line: Nuggets +205 (bet $100 to win $205) | Suns -260 (bet $260 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Nuggets +6.5 (-120) | Suns -6.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 224.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Nuggets at Suns key injuries

Nuggets

PG Jamal Murray (knee) out

Suns

Nothing affecting gambling odds.

Nuggets at Suns odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Suns 119, Nuggets 109

Money line

PASS even though Phoenix is the right side because the Suns (-260) is a little out of my price range for an NBA regular-season favorite.

Denver’s matchup issues in the backcourt against Phoenix in their playoff series persist. The Nuggets are still without Murray and his backup — PG Monte Morris — can’t guard CP3. I’d expect Paul is going to work C Nikola Jokic and the rest of Denver’s bigs in pick-and-roll action just like in the playoffs.

Against the spread

“LEAN” to the SUNS -6.5 (-105) for a half unit since their offense knifed through Denver’s defense and there’s no reason for Phoenix to not have similar success in this meeting.

The Suns were 30-17 ATS at home and 28-14 ATS as home favorites last season (including the playoffs). On the other hand, Denver was just 20-21 ATS on the road and 6-9 ATS as a road underdog, including the postseason.

Furthermore, according to CleaningTheGlass.com, Phoenix was 17-7 overall vs. teams top-10 in net points per 100 possessions with a plus-3.5-point differential last season. While Denver was 12-12 overall with a minus-1.4-point differential against teams top-10 in net points per 100 possessions.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the OVER 224.5 (-108) for a half unit because there’s a “line freeze” in the betting market that’s concerning. More than 80% of the action is on the Over according to pregame.com, but the total hasn’t budged since the opener.

Phoenix averaged 121.5 points per game in the Western Conference Semifinals series vs. Denver. Also, the winning side in the Nuggets-Suns meetings last year has scored at least 116 points in six of the seven contests.

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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