NBA Playoffs best bets – Page 3

Denver Nuggets at Minnesota Timberwolves Game 4 odds, picks and predictions

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

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves meet Sunday in Game 4 of a best-of-7 Western Conference, 2nd-round series. The Timberwolves lead the series 2-1. Tip-off from Target Center is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET (TNT). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Nuggets vs. Timberwolves odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Nuggets are starting to show signs of life in this series after a 117-90 road victory in Game 3 Friday. Denver won straight up as a 3.5-point underdog and did most of the heavy lifting to help the Over (205.5) hit.

C Nikola Jokic and G Jamal Murray each had 24 points for the Nuggets, who can regain home-court advantage with a victory Sunday.

Minnesota’s 90 points in Friday’s loss was its lowest scoring output since an 89-88 setback against the LA Clippers March 3. The Over/Under for points scored by G Anthony Edwards was set at 27.5, and he finished with 19 after taking just 15 shots (8 for 15).

The Timberwolves covered and the Under hit in the 1st 2 games of this series.

Nuggets at Timberwolves odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:01 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Nuggets +125 (bet $100 to win $125) | Timberwolves -150 (bet $150 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Nuggets +2.5 (-105) | Timberwolves -2.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 204.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Nuggets at Timberwolves key injuries

Nuggets

G Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (abdominal) questionable
G Reggie Jackson (calf) questionable
G Jamal Murray (calf) questionable

Timberwolves

None

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Nuggets at Timberwolves picks and predictions

Prediction

Nuggets 100, Timberwolves 99

Moneyline

While I like the Nuggets (+125) at these odds, it’s tough to fade the Timberwolves (-150) in back-to-back home games. What we do know is that Minnesota’s No. 1-ranked defense should bounce back after getting blown out, and in a close, low-scoring game, this may just come down to which team gets the final possession.

PASS. Bet the spread and/or total instead.

Against the spread

The defending NBA champs were grossly undervalued by the market heading into Friday. They went from 7.5-point favorites in Game 2 to 3.5-point underdogs in Game 3. That 11-point swing was way too drastic, even when accounting for change of venue.

The Nuggets have barely been upgraded since Friday’s win, and I believe that’s a mistake.

Minnesota is a young team, and its best player, Edwards, is just 22 years old. The Timberwolves faced zero adversity in a 4-game sweep of the Phoenix Suns in the 1st round. They now have to deal with the pressure of potentially giving home-court advantage back to the defending champs.

I’ll put my money on the veterans who have proven that they can win multiple playoff series.

BET NUGGETS +2.5 (-105).

Over/Under

The Under has hit in 2 of the 3 games this series, and Minnesota’s NBA-best defense should look much better after allowing 117 points in Game 3.

This is a pivotal game in the sense that a Timberwolves victory would put them just 1 win away from the conference finals and a Nuggets upset would give them back home court. Look for both teams to play conservatively and slow down the pace.

BET UNDER 204.5 (-110).

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Corey Scott on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

New York Knicks at Indiana Pacers Game 4 odds, picks and predictions

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

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The New York Knicks face the Indiana Pacers Sunday in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. Tip-off from Gainbridge Fieldhouse is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET (ABC). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Knicks vs. Pacers odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

Series: Knicks lead 2-1; Pacers won regular-season series 2-1

Many expected Game 3 on Friday was going to be a Pacers blowout. The Knicks were without F OG Anunoby, G Jalen Brunson was banged up, the Pacers were at home with a friendlier whistle. And yet New York led in the 4th quarter and it was a 1-possession game with 10 seconds remaining.

Knicks G Donte DiVincenzo scored 35 points, shooting 7-for-11 from 3, but it was Pacer’s G Andrew Nembhard who made a clutch shot from well beyond the arc to take the late lead in the 111-106 victory.

Knicks at Pacers odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:57 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Knicks +180 (bet $100 to win $180) | Pacers -225 (bet $225 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Knicks +5.5 (-110) | Pacers -5.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 217.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Knicks at Pacers key injuries

Knicks

G OG Anunoby (hamstring) out
F Bojan Bogdanovic (foot) out
F Julius Randle (shoulder) out
C Mitchell Robinson (ankle) out

Pacers

G Tyrese Haliburton (back) questionable
F Aaron Nesmith (shoulder) questionable

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Knicks at Pacers picks and predictions

Prediction

Knicks 112, Pacers 105

Moneyline

The Pacers are doing everything they can to contain Brunson, but after Game 3 it appears that New York has the roster to take advantage of the new opportunities.

On top of that, New York’s bench proved to be quite helpful, while every player on Indiana’s bench had a negative +/- on Friday. Yes the Pacers won the game, but everything was clicking defensively and yet they just barely managed to pull off a win.

I like the value of the Knicks at plus money, especially with Brunson off the injury report.

LEAN KNICKS (+185).

Against the spread

The Knicks have lost by more than 5 points just 3 times in their last 15 games. Compare that to a Pacers team favored in 5 of their 6 games against the Milwaukee Bucks that failed to cover in 3 of them. That included 2 upset losses by double digits.

Even if the Pacers win game 4, I see another close matchup. If you like the Knicks to win, but feel you need a little insurance, then BET KNICKS +5.5 (-110). Otherwise, stick to the moneyline.

Over/Under

After 3 games Indiana finally has a plan to slow Brunson, which is to have G T.J. McConnell or F Aaron Nesmith cover him to keep the Knicks offense from humming. On top of that, don’t expect New York to shoot 51% from beyond the arc again.

But keeping Brunson to 10-of-26 shooting wore out his defenders. Nesmith and McConnell combined for just 16 points on 6-of-16 shooting. This is still playoff basketball where 100 points per team is not guaranteed.

LEAN UNDER 217.5 (-110).

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Ethan Matthew on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Boston Celtics at Cleveland Cavaliers Game 3 odds, picks and predictions

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

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers meet for Game 3 of a best-of-7 Eastern Conference, 2nd-round series Saturday. The series is tied 1-1. Tip-off from Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse is set for 8:30 p.m. ET (ABC). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Celtics vs. Cavaliers odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Celtics are unbeaten in the playoffs — unless we’re talking about Game 2’s. Boston lost to the Miami Heat 111-101 in Game 2 at home as a 14-point favorite in the 1st round, and it lost 118-94 in Game 2 at home as a 13-point favorite to Cleveland in this round Thursday. Boston is 5-0 straight up (SU) and against the spread (ATS) in all of its other games in these playoffs.

Cleveland improved from 41.1% FG shooting in Game 1, to 54.7% from the field in Game 2. The Cavs were just 26.2% (11-of-42) from behind the 3-point line in Game 1 but was 46.4% (13-of-28) from downtown in Game 2.

The Cavs’ Game 2 win is even more impressive since the Celtics turned it over just 7 times. Cleveland did finish with a surprising 44-to-31 edge in the rebound department.

Also impressive for the Cavaliers — and surprising to most — was that C Jarrett Allen sat out with a right rib contusion. SG Donovan Mitchell was tremendous in Game 2, going for 29 points on 10-of-19 shooting, including 5 3-pointers. PF Evan Mobley was good for the only double-double in Game 2, finishing with 21 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists in 33 minutes. Allen will sit again in Game 3.

Celtics at Cavaliers odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 5:20 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Celtics -350 (bet $350 to win $100) | Cavaliers +275 (bet $100 to win $275)
Against the spread: Celtics -7.5 (-115) | Cavaliers +7.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 210.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Celtics at Cavaliers key injuries

Celtics

C Kristaps Porzingis (calf) out

Cavaliers

C Jarrett Allen (ribs) out

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Celtics at Cavaliers picks and predictions

Prediction

Celtics 114, Cavaliers 103

Moneyline

The Celtics (-350) will cost 3½ times your potential return as Boston looks to reign down fire on the Cavaliers (+275) after the Game 2 loss on its home court.

After an embarrassing loss in Game 2 in the 1st round to the Heat as a double-digit favorite, Boston went down to Miami and rolled 104-84 as a 9.5-point road favorite in Game 3. Look for history to repeat itself.

PASS.

Against the spread

The CELTICS -7.5 (-115) are a strong play as they look to bounce back in Game 3.

After a straight-up loss as a double-digit favorite, Boston is 3-1 SU/ATS in 4 instances this season, including the 20-point win in Miami in Game 3.

Despite the win and cover in Game 2, Cleveland is still just 2-5 ATS in the past 7 outings.

Over/Under

OVER 210.5 (-115) is worth a look in Game 3.

The Over has cashed in 2 of the past 3 games for the Celtics, going for 118 or more points on offense in those pair of Over results.

The Over cashed in the final 2 home games of the series against the Orlando Magic, while cashing in 10 of the past 13 outings at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse dating back to March 8.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Oklahoma City Thunder at Dallas Mavericks Game 3 odds, picks and predictions

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

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Oklahoma City Thunder and Dallas Mavericks meet for Game 3 of a best-of-7 Western Conference, 2nd-round series Saturday. The series is tied 1-1. Tip-off from American Airlines Center is set for 3:30 p.m. ET (ABC). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Thunder vs. Mavericks odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

Dallas picked up the 119-110 win Thursday while covering as a 5-point road underdog. G Luka Doncic and F P.J. Washington each scored 29 points. The Mavs also shot 48.6% (18 of 37) from deep in the win.

Oklahoma City had only 3 players score in double figures Thursday. The Thunder struggled to find offense from anyone other than G Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and F Jalen Williams, who combined for 53 points. Thursday’s loss ended a 5-game playoff win streak for the Thunder.

Thunder at Mavericks odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:20 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Thunder +120 (bet $100 to win $120) | Mavericks -145 (bet $145 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Thunder +2.5 (-110) | Mavericks -2.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 217.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Thunder at Mavericks key injuries

Thunder

None

Mavericks

G Luka Doncic (knee, ankle) questionable

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Thunder at Mavericks picks and predictions

Prediction

Thunder 115, Mavericks 113

Moneyline

PASS.

I expect the Thunder (+120) to pick up the win here, but there is always a risk when picking against talents like Doncic and G Kyrie Irving in the playoffs, especially when they’re at home. The Thunder’s odds are also better ATS, so bet on the spread and/or total instead.

Against the spread

BET THUNDER +2.5 (-110).

Oklahoma City has covered the spread in 4 of 6 games this postseason and is 8-2 ATS in its last 10 games overall. The Thunder have also covered the spread in 4 of the last 5 matchups vs. the Mavericks in Dallas and are 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings overall.

Be aware that the Mavericks are 3-1 ATS in their last 4 games.

Over/Under

LEAN OVER 217.5 (-115).

The Over has hit in 4 of Dallas’ last 5 overall and is 2-0 in its last 2 home games. The Over has also hit in 8 of the last 10 Thunder-Mavericks matchups and is 5-0 in the last 5 meetings in Dallas.

This is only a lean because the Under is 3-7 in Oklahoma City’s last 10 games and 6-4 in Dallas’ last 10.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow @payton_shanks on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

New York Knicks at Indiana Pacers Game 3 odds, picks and predictions

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

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Indiana Pacers host the New York Knicks at Gainbridge Fieldhouse for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. Tip is set for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN). Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Knicks vs. Pacers odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Knicks hold a 2-0 series lead, beating the Pacers 121-117 in Game 1 and 130-121 in Game 2, closing as a 6-point and 4.5-point favorite respectively.

New York beat the Philadelphia 76ers in 6 games in its 1st-round series, covering in 3 of those. G Jalen Brunson has averaged 35.6 points per game throughout the 8 postseason games. The Knicks were 43-36-3 against the spread (ATS) during the regular season.

The Pacers pulled off the biggest upset in their 1st-round series, taking down the No. 3-seeded Milwaukee Bucks in 6 games. They covered in 3 and were 2-1 ATS at home. Indiana is 1-1 ATS in its 2nd-round series and has gone 6-2 O/U through 8 playoff games. It is led in scoring by F Pascal Siakam, who is averaging 20.9 points per game in the playoffs.

Knicks at Pacers odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:16 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Knicks +235 (bet $100 to win $235) | Pacers -290 (bet $290 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Knicks +7 (-108) | Pacers -7 (-112)
Over/Under (O/U): 223 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Knicks at Pacers key injuries

Knicks

G OG Anunoby (hamstring) out
F Bojan Bogdanovic (foot) out
G Jalen Brunson (foot) questionable
F Julius Randle (shoulder) out

Pacers

G Tyrese Haliburton (back) questionable

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Knicks at Pacers picks and predictions

Prediction

Pacers 114, Knicks 105

Moneyline

PASS.

The Pacers were 3-0 at home in their 1st-round series and have performed well at Gainbridge this season. They aren’t worth a play at an expensive -290 though.

Against the spread

BET PACERS -7 (-112).

The Knicks are a depleted team coming into Friday’s battle. They are without 3 starters. While Randle and Bogdanovic have been out the entire series, Anunoby is coming off a 28-point game, one in which the Knicks got just 12 points from their bench. That’s going to be a major loss for New York.

The Pacers, who were 3-0 straight up and 2-1 ATS at home in the 1st round, are 24-18-2 ATS at home this season, playoffs included. They should be playing with more desperation as well.

Couple the injuries for New York with Indiana’s home success and back PACERS -7 (-112).

Over/Under

LEAN UNDER 223 (-110).

Both teams shot over 52% from the field and over 42% from deep in Game 2. That shouldn’t be expected to be repeated despite offensive success throughout the 1st 2 games.

The Knicks were just 37-45 O/U during the regular season. With totals above 223, the Pacers were 1-1 O/U in their first-round series, being held Under 95 points in 2 of those 6 games.

While Indiana should come out on top and reach 100 points, expect more inefficiency in this game and back UNDER 223 (-110).

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Dallas Mavericks at Oklahoma City Thunder Game 2 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Dallas Mavericks at Oklahoma City Thunder odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Dallas Mavericks and Oklahoma City Thunder battle in Game 2 of a best-of-7 Western Conference, 2nd-round series Thursday. The Thunder lead the series 1-0. Tip-off from Paycom Center is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET (ESPN). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Mavericks vs. Thunder odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

Dallas snapped a 2-game winning streak with a 117-95 loss against Oklahoma City Tuesday while failing to cover as a 4-point road underdog.

G Luka Doncic scored a game-high 36 points while grabbing 15 rebounds and dishing out 18 assists for a triple-double, while C Dereck Lively II (20 points and 16 rebounds) added a double-double. The Mavericks shot 44.8% from the field in the loss.

The Thunder have won 10 games in a row after Tuesday’s dominant victory. F Jalen Williams scored a team-high 23 points, while 8 different Thunder players, including each starter, scored in double digits. Oklahoma City shot 44% from the field in the win.

Mavericks at Thunder odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 11:30 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Mavericks +165 (bet $100 to win $165) | Thunder -200 (bet $200 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Mavericks +4.5 (-105) | Thunder -4.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 218.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Mavericks at Thunder key injuries

Mavericks

G Luka Doncic (knee) probable

Thunder

None

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Mavericks at Thunder picks and predictions

Prediction

Thunder 109, Mavericks 101

Moneyline

PASS.

There is no value on the Thunder (-200), who have won 10 straight games, at this price.

Against the spread

BET THUNDER -4.5 (-115).

Oklahoma City has covered the spread in 8 of its last 10 games, all as the favorite, including each of its last 4 and 6 of its last 7 at home. Dallas has failed to cover the spread in 2 of its last 4 games and 5 of its last 9, including 2 of its last 3 as an underdog.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 218.5 (-110).

Dallas and Oklahoma City have each hit the Under in 7 of the last 10 games. The Mavs have hit the Under in 5 of their last 6 road games and scored 101 or fewer points in 6 of their last 9, while the Thunder have hit the Under in each of their last 3 and held opponents to 107 or fewer in 9 straight.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow @seth_orlemann on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Cleveland Cavaliers at Boston Celtics Game 2 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Cleveland Cavaliers at Boston Celtics odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics meet for Game 2 of a best-of-7 Eastern Conference, 2nd-round series Thursday. The Celtics lead the series 1-0. Tip-off from TD Garden is set for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Cavaliers vs. Celtics odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Cavaliers advanced past the Orlando Magic in 7 games, but Cleveland has been terrible on the road in this postseason. The Cavs lost 120-95 in the opener in Game 1 at TD Garden, and Cleveland has lost 3 of its 4 playoff games on the road by at least 23 points, including a franchise-worst 38-point loss in Game 3 of the Orlando series. It is also 0-4 against the spread (ATS) in those games, and 1-5 ATS in the past 6 playoff games.

While Cleveland was shooting just 41.1% from the field in Game 1, including a dismal 26.2% (11-of-42) from behind the arc, Boston was a solid 48.9% from the floor, and 39.1% (18-of-46) from downtown. The good news for the Cavs is that they turned it over only 5 times, but the C’s held a plus-17 rebounding margin at 55-to-38.

Boston has won 4 in a row against Cleveland at TD Garden, and it has covered the past 2. The Over (211) in Game 1 snapped a 2-game run to the Under, but the Over is 6-2 in the previous 8 meetings.

Cavaliers at Celtics odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:28 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cavaliers +600 (bet $100 to win $600) | Celtics -1000 (bet $1,000 to win $100)
Against the spread: Cavaliers +13.5 (-110) | Celtics -13.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 212.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Cavaliers at Celtics key injuries

Cavaliers

C Jarrett Allen (ribs) questionable

Celtics

F Kristaps Porzingis (calf) out

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Cavaliers at Celtics picks and predictions

Prediction

Celtics 119, Cavaliers 103

Moneyline

The Celtics (-1000) will cost you a cool 10 times your potential return, which is never worth it, whether betting a heavy favorite straight up, or as part of a multi-team parlay. Including the C’s in a parlay sucks all of the value out of the ticket.

As bad as the Cavaliers (+600) have been on the road, you can’t risk $100 for every $10 won. That’s way too much risk for not nearly enough reward.

PASS.

Against the spread

The CELTICS -13.5 (-110) are laying a giant number, but the way the Cavaliers +13.5 (-110) have performed on the road in this postseason, it actually might not be high enough.

Cleveland has lost 3 of its 4 playoff games on the road by at least 23 points, and while it took great care of the basketball in Game 1, it was still trampled. The Cavs shot poorly, they were outrebounded greatly, and Cleveland struggled at the free-throw line, too.

While the Cavs had lost the 2 meetings in regular season at TD Garden by an average of just 8.0 PPG, they were waylaid in Game 1 by 25.

Over/Under

OVER 212.5 (-105) is a high number, but it’s worth a play in Game 2.

The books have bumped up the total significantly from Game 1, by 2 total buckets, but that might not be enough.

Cleveland has allowed 114.0 PPG in 4 road postseason games, including 120+ points in 2 of those outings. Cleveland’s offense has produced 97 or fewer points in 6 of 8 playoff outings so far, so that’s the risk. But the C’s had their way in Game 1, and it’s hard to believe things are going to change defensively for J.B. Bickerstaff’s crew in Game 2.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Indiana Pacers at New York Knicks Game 2 odds, picks and predictions

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

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The 6-seed Indiana Pacers meet the 2-seed New York Knicks in Game 2 of a best-of-7 Eastern Conference, 2nd-round series Wednesday. The Knicks lead the series 1-0. Tip-off from Madison Square Garden is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET (TNT). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Pacers vs. Knicks odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Pacers fell just short of stealing home-court advantage in Game 1, covering as 6-point dogs in a 121-117 loss. G Tyrese Haliburton had just 6 points on 2-for-6 shooting, but he pitched in with 8 dimes and 4 steals. He took the blame for the loss and vowed to be more aggressive in Game 2, but you really have to wonder about a bout of back spasms that has him forever questionable. If he’s compromised at all physically, this is going to be a short series.

Has there been a better story in the NBA than G Jalen Brunson in several years? He dropped 43 in Game 1, which marked his 4th-straight 40-point effort. He’s averaging 36.6 points and 8.6 assists per game in these playoffs. It’s a different style, but he really reminds me of Hall of Famer Allen Iverson but with a better supporting cast.

Pacers at Knicks odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:51 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Pacers +155 (bet $100 to win $155) | Knicks -190 (bet $190 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Pacers +4.5 (-105) | Knicks -4.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 218.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Pacers at Knicks key injuries

Pacers

G Tyrese Haliburton (back) questionable
F Bennedict Mathurin (shoulder) out

Knicks

G Bojan Bogdanovic (foot) out
F Julius Randle (shoulder) out
C Mitchell Robinson (ankle) out

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Pacers at Knicks picks and predictions

Prediction

Knicks 119, Pacers 110

Moneyline

I’m erring on the side of … Haliburton is more injured than we’re aware of. In a close game on the road with a golden opportunity to steal Game 1, and you don’t have the confidence to take more than 6 shots?

The Knicks (-190) are priced out of my range, though, and Brunson’s O/U is 37.5 points, which is crazy. SGP KNICKS ML + JALEN BRUNSON 30 POINTS (-130) to drop the price down (SGP = same-game parlay).

Against the spread

The Pacers kept this within 4 even with Haliburton a non-factor on offense. So, I’m avoiding the spread here.

Let’s take a look at G Josh Hart. He has 13+ boards in 5 of 7 playoff games. He has combined for 19+ boards+assists in 3 of the last 4.

Take JOSH HART OVER 18.5 ASSISTS+REBOUNDS (-130).

Over/Under

Both teams are each 8-2 O/U in their last 10. We went way Over the 217 total in Game 1, and that was without much from Haliburton.

We’re going OVER 218.5 (-110).

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Ryan Dodson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Cleveland Cavaliers at Boston Celtics Game 1 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Cleveland Cavaliers at Boston Celtics odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics meet for Game 1 of a best-of-7 Eastern Conference, 2nd-round series Tuesday. Tip-off from TD Garden is set for 7 p.m. ET (TNT). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Cavaliers vs. Celtics odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Cavaliers had their issues with the Orlando Magic in the 1st-round series, winning in 7 games. The home team was a perfect 7-0 straight up (SU), while Cleveland ended up going just 3-4 against the spread (ATS), including 0-3 SU/ATS on the road in the series. The Over/Under alternated in the past 6 games.

The Celtics made quick work of the Miami Heat in their 1st-round series, winning in 5 games. While Boston let up in Game 2, falling 111-101, that was its only loss and non-cover of the series. The other 4 games were not only victories but wins by 14 or more points with 3 of the wins coming by 20 or more points. The Over went 2-1 in 3 home games for the C’s.

These teams met 3 times in the regular season, twice in Boston and once in Cleveland. The home team went 3-0 SU, while the Cavs went 2-1 ATS. The Under cashed in the past 2 meetings, including a 105-104 win by the Cavs as 8.5-point underdogs March 5 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.

Cavaliers at Celtics odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 4:20 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cavaliers +425 (bet $100 to win $425) | Celtics -600 (bet $600 to win $100)
Against the spread: Cavaliers +11.5 (-110) | Celtics -11.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 208.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Cavaliers at Celtics key injuries

Cavaliers

C Jarrett Allen (ribs) questionable

Celtics

F Kristaps Porzingis (calf) out

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Cavaliers at Celtics picks and predictions

Prediction

Celtics 113, Cavaliers 105

Moneyline

The Celtics (-600) will cost 6 times your potential return. That’s way too much risk for not nearly enough value.

In addition, Boston last played May 1, so it’s almost been an entire week of rest. On the flip side, the Cavaliers (+425) just played Sunday in a Game 7 against Orlando. While they might be a little on the tired side, they do have momentum, and won’t have as much rust.

Cleveland played Boston tough all season, too. The Cavs have been a disaster on the road in the playoffs so far, though, and that’s against a mediocre Magic team.

PASS.

Against the spread

The CAVALIERS +11.5 (-110) are the play as a double-digit spread is an awfully big number.

While Cleveland lost by a franchise-worst 38 points in Game 3 in Orlando, and by 23 points in Game 4, it fell by just 7 in Game 6, playing a lot better as the series went on.

The Cavs played the Celtics tough all season, losing by an average of 8.0 points per game (PPG) in 2 meetings at TD Garden this season.

Over/Under

OVER 208.5 (-110) might be the best play on the board for Game 1.

While the Under has cashed in the past 2 games in this series, the Over is 5-2 in the past 7 meetings. We had 3 OT games during that 7-game span, too, as the Cavs have been a thorn in the side of the Celtics.

Boston is likely to win the series opener, and it will likely take the series in rather short order, too, but Cleveland won’t make it easy.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Dallas Mavericks at Oklahoma City Thunder Game 1 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Dallas Mavericks at Oklahoma City Thunder odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Oklahoma City Thunder welcome the Dallas Mavericks to Paycom Center for Game 1 of a best-of-7 Western Conference, 2nd-round series Tuesday. Tip-off is set for 9:30 p.m. ET (TNT). Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Mavericks vs. Thunder odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

Regular-season series: Thunder won 3-1

The Thunder swept the New Orleans Pelicans in the 1st round, beating them 97-89 in Game 4 April 29 after closing as 4.5-point favorites. The top-seeded Thunder covered the last 3 games in the series, closing as favorites in each. They went 1-3 O/U as well.

The Thunder ended the regular season 46-36 against the spread (ATS) and are 28-15 ATS at home on the season, including the playoffs.

The Mavericks’ 1st-round series ended in 6 games as they beat the 4th-seeded LA Clippers 114-101 Friday as 8.5-point home favorites. Dallas closed as a favorite in 5 of the 6 games, going 3-2 ATS when laying points and 1-0 ATS as an underdog.

The Mavs were 48-34 ATS on the season and are 29-15 ATS on the road, the best record in the NBA.

Mavericks at Thunder odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Monday at 10 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Mavericks +136 (bet $100 to win $136) | Thunder -158 (bet $158 to win $100)
Against the spread: Mavericks +3.5 (-110) | Thunder -3.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 218 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Mavericks at Thunder key injuries

Mavericks

G Luka Doncic (knee) probable

Thunder

None

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Mavericks at Thunder picks and predictions

Prediction

Thunder 110, Mavericks 104

Moneyline

PASS.

There is some value in taking a moneyline option, but 5 of the Mavs’ 6 first-round games ended outside of 3 points. Bet the spread and/or total instead.

Against the spread

BET THUNDER -3.5 (-110).

The Thunder and Mavs play a similar style of basketball. They both sit top 10 in turnover rate and top 10 in pace. They both sit bottom 10 in offensive rebounding rate. However, the Thunder rank 3rd in offensive rating, while the Mavs sit 8th, and the Thunder sit 3th in defensive rating, whereas Dallas is 18th.

OKC has been strong at home and is 38-27 ATS as a favorite this season. It has covered in 7 of its last 8 games. It should have a major size advantage as well. While Dallas was 4-2 ATS in its 1st-round series, it is 4-4 ATS in its last 8 and played a Clippers team without one of its best players for most of the series in F Kawhi Leonard.

Expect the Thunder to be primed and ready to bring the battle to Dallas after an extended rest. Take THUNDER -3.5 (-110).

Over/Under

LEAN UNDER 218 (-110).

The Mavs went 3-3 O/U in their 6-game 1st-round series and are 3-6 O/U in their last 9 games. The Thunder went 1-3 O/U in their 1st-round series, while they are 2-6 O/U in their last 8.

In the playoffs, defense has picked up, and the Thunder topped 106 just once in the 1st round despite ranking 3rd in pace among playoff teams. OKC scored sub-100 in 2 of 4 1st-round games yet did that just 3 times all season long. The Mavs went under 102 in 3 of 6 1st-round games.

Considering this total and how each team faired in the 1st round, back UNDER 218 (-110).

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]