FREE NBA PICKS TONIGHT
*These NBA Playoff picks and research are done the previous game day evening, adjust your selections accordingly should spreads and lineups change.
PARLAYS
PARLAY 1
- MIAM @ ORLANDO – MIAMI WIN
- ATLANTA @ CHICAGO – CHICAGO +2.0
- OKLAHOMA CITY @ HOUSTON – HOUSTON WIN
@4.62 
PARLAY 2
- DETROIT @ MINNESOTA – UNDER 226.5 TOTAL POINTS
- SACRAMENTO @ DENVER – OVER 224.5 TOTAL POINTS
@3.60 
CHARLOTTE @ CLEVELAND
PLAYER BETTING TRENDS
- Collin Sexton has 25+ points in each of the Cavaliers’ last five games. (22.5)
- Devonte’ Graham has 23+ points in each of the Hornets’ last four games. (16.5)
- Andre Drummond has 21+ points in each of his last three games. (18.5)
- Cody Zeller has seven or more rebounds in eight of his last nine games against Eastern Conference opponents. (6.5)
- Andre Drummond has 16+ rebounds in each of his last five games against the Hornets. (14.5)
- Terry Rozier has four or more assists in six of his last eight games. (3.5)
() = BOOKIE LINE
MATCHUP TRENDS
- Under is 6-2 in the last 8 meetings.
- Hornets are 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Cleveland.
ROSTER CHANGES
CHARLOTTE
- STAY: Bismack Biyombo, Miles Bridges, Devonte’ Graham, Caleb Martin, Cody Martin, Malik Monk, Terry Rozier, P.J. Washington, Cody Zeller, Jalen McDaniels (NG).
- IN: LaMelo Ball (R), Vernon Carey Jr. (R), Nate Darling (R), Gordon Hayward (BOS), Nick Richards (R), Grant Riller (R).
- OUT: Dwayne Bacon (ORL), Nicolas Batum (LAC), Willy Hernangómez (NOP), Kobi Simmons, Ray Spalding.
CLEVELAND
- STAY: Matthew Dellavedova, Andre Drummond, Dante Exum, Darius Garland, Kevin Love, Larry Nance, Jr., Cedi Osman, Kevin Porter Jr., Collin Sexton, Dylan Windler, Dean Wade (NG), Matt Mooney.
- IN: Marques Bolden, Damyean Dotson (NYK), Thon Maker (DET), JaVale McGee (LAL), Isaac Okoro (R), Levi Randolph (R), Lamar Stevens (R).
- OUT: Jordan Bell, Alfonzo McKinnie (LAL), Tristan Thompson (BOS), Ante Zizic.
2019/20 WIN/LOSS
| TEAM | W | L | HOME | ROAD |
| CHA | 23 | 42 | 10-21 | 13-21 |
| CLE | 19 | 46 | 11-25 | 8-21 |
2019/20 SEASON POINTS +/-
| TEAM | PPG | OPPG | DIFF | AV. TOT |
| CHA | 102.9 | 109.6 | -6.7 | 212.5 |
| CLE | 106.9 | 114.8 | -7.9 | 221.7 |
PICKS ATS
| Spread | Points | Result |
| CHA | UNDER | CLE |
| -1.0 | 215.5 | 121-114 |
The Hornets notched up a 23-42 record during a rebuilding season, while playing at the slowest tempo in the league.
The Cavaliers have been garbage ever since LeBron made yet another public decision to leave the franchise in the 2018 offseason.
After mustering back-to-back 19-win seasons, the Cavs aim to start 2020-21 on the right note against the visiting Hornets
Gordon Hayward (finger) went through a full workout on Saturday and is listed as day-to-day. The Hornets are starting to put together some interesting pieces, including #3 draft pick LaMelo Ball.
PICK – CHARLOTTE -1.0
NEW YORK @ INDIANA
PLAYER BETTING TRENDS
- Mitchell Robinson has 11+ points in five of his last six games. (9.5)
- Victor Oladipo has 20+ points in each of the Pacers’ last three games. (17.5)
- Domantas Sabonis has 24+ points in each of the Pacers’ last two games against the Knicks. (19.5)
- Julius Randle has 10+ rebounds in five of the Knicks’ last six games as road underdogs. (9.5)
- Malcolm Brogdon has six or more rebounds in seven of his last nine games at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. (4.5)
- Elfrid Payton has eight or more assists in 16 of his last 20 games. (5.5)
() = BOOKIE LINE
MATCHUP TRENDS
- Knicks are 5-11 ATS in the last 16 meetings in Indiana.
- Under is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.
ROSTER CHANGES
NEW YORK
- STAY: RJ Barrett, Ignas Brazdeikis, Reggie Bullock, Kevin Knox, Frank Ntilikina, Elfrid Payton, Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson, Dennis Smith Jr., Jared Harper, Theo Pinson.
- IN: Alec Burks (PHI), Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (DAL), Nerlens Noel (OKC), Immanuel Quickley (R), Austin Rivers (HOU), Omari Spellman (MIN), Obi Toppin (R).
- OUT: Damyean Dotson (CLE), Wayne Ellington (DET), Taj Gibson, Moe Harkless (MIA), Bobby Portis (MIL), Kenny Wooten (HOU).
INDIANA
- STAY: Goga Bitadze, Malcolm Brogdon, Aaron Holiday, Justin Holiday, Jeremy Lamb, T.J. McConnell, Doug McDermott, Victor Oladipo, Domantas Sabonis, JaKarr Sampson, Edmond Sumner, Myles Turner, T.J. Warren, Naz Mitrou-Long (NG), Brian Bowen.
- IN: Jalen Lecque (PHX), Kelan Martin (MIN), Cassius Stanley (R).
- OUT: Alize Johnson (TOR), T.J. Leaf (OKC).
2019/20 WIN/LOSS
| TEAM | W | L | HOME | ROAD |
| NY | 21 | 45 | 11-22 | 10-23 |
| IND | 45 | 28 | 25-11 | 20-17 |
2020/21 SEASON POINTS +/-
| TEAM | PPG | OPPG | DIFF | AV. TOT |
| NY | 105.8 | 112.3 | -6.5 | 218.1 |
| IND | 109.4 | 107.5 | +1.9 | 216.9 |
PICKS ATS
| Spread | Points | Result |
| NY | UNDER | IND |
| +8.5 | 214.5 | 121-107 |
This one pits two of the nine teams debuting new head coaches. New York hired Tom Thibodeau on July 30, while Indiana hired Nate Bjorkgren on Oct. 20.
Thibodeau is the 14th head coach since 2000 for the Knicks, who missed the playoffs for the seventh straight season after a 21-45 season last year.
In their final preseason game, the Knicks flew out to a 23-point lead and cruised to a 119-83 home win over the Cavs.
Indiana went 45-28 last season and finished in fourth in the East. After they were swept by the Heat in the first round of the playoffs, they appinted Nate Bjorkgren to replace Nate McMillian. Bjorkgren will be focused on improving a Pacers’ offense that ranked 19th out of 30 teams in efficiency.
The Knicks have showed some encouraging signs in the preseason and I like their chances to cover the +8.5 line here.
PICK – NEW YORK +8.5
MIAMI @ ORLANDO
PLAYER BETTING TRENDS
- Aaron Gordon has 24+ points in each of the Magic’s last three games as home underdogs against the Heat. (14.5)
- Jimmy Butler has 22+ points in six of the Heat’s last seven games. (18.5)
- Nikola Vucevic has 27+ points in each of the Magic’s last three games at Amway Center. (19.5)
- Markelle Fultz has seven or more assists in each of the Magic’s last five games at Amway Center. (5.5)
- Bam Adebayo has a double-double in four of the Heat’s last five games against Eastern opponents.
() = BOOKIE LINE
MATCHUP TRENDS
- Over is 13-6-1 in the last 20 meetings in Orlando.
- Under is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings.
ROSTER CHANGES
MIAMI
- STAY: Bam Adebayo, Jimmy Butler, Goran Dragic, Udonis Haslem, Tyler Herro, Andre Iguodala, Meyers Leonard, Kendrick Nunn, KZ Okpala, Kelly Olynyk, Duncan Robinson, Chris Silva, Gabe Vincent.
- IN: Precious Achiuwa (R), Avery Bradley (LAL), Moe Harkless (NYK), B.J. Johnson (ORL), Max Strus (CHI).
- OUT: Kyle Alexander, Jae Crowder (PHX), Solomon Hill (ATL), Derrick Jones Jr. (POR).
ORLANDO
- STAY: Al-Farouq Aminu, Mohamed Bamba, Khem Birch, Michael Carter-Williams, Gary Clark, James Ennis, Evan Fournier, Markelle Fultz, Aaron Gordon, Jonathan Isaac, Terrence Ross, Nikola Vucevic.
- IN: Cole Anthony (R), Dwayne Bacon (CHA), Jordan Bone (DET), Robert Franks (R), Karim Mané (R), Chuma Okeke (R).
- OUT: D.J. Augustin (MIL), Melvin Frazier, Wesley Iwundu (DAL), B.J. Johnson (MIA), Vic Law.
2019/20 WIN/LOSS
| TEAM | W | L | HOME | ROAD |
| MIA | 44 | 29 | 29-7 | 15-22 |
| ORL | 33 | 40 | 18-17 | 15-23 |
2019/20 SEASON POINTS +/-
| TEAM | PPG | OPPG | DIFF | AV. TOT |
| MIA | 112.0 | 109.1 | +2.9 | 221.1 |
| ORL | 107.3 | 108.3 | -1.0 | 215.6 |
PICKS ATS
| Spread | Points | Result |
| MIA | UNDER | ORL |
| -3.5 | 219.5 | 113-107 |
Just seven weeks ago the Heat lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals.
From Finals series to the beginning of the new season it’s the shortest turnaround in NBA history, after the Covid-induced drama of the 2019-2020 season.
Due to the short turnaround, Jimmy Butler will be on an a minutes limit to try to save his legs avfter averaging 43 minutes per game during the Finals.
There will be no such limits to the Heat’s younger brigade, including 23-year-old center Bam Adebayo, fresh off a 5-year – $200-million contract extension.
Orlando finished 33-40 last season and didn’t make a splash during free agency.
These two play tight contests, so the under is tempting. The more confident play is on the Heat to win and cover.
PICK – MIAMI -3.5 & UNDER 219.5 TOTAL POINTS
WASHINGTON @ PHILADELPHIA
PLAYER BETTING TRENDS
- Ben Simmons has 19+ points in seven of his last eight games at Wells Fargo Center. (16.5)
- Bradley Beal has 34+ points in eight of his last 10 games in road games. (26.5)
- Joel Embiid has 30+ points in each of the 76ers’ last three games. (25.5)
- Thomas Bryant has eight or more rebounds in six of the Wizards’ last seven games. (6.5)
- Russell Westbrook has a double-double in nine of his last 10 games against the 76ers.
() = BOOKIE LINE
MATCHUP TRENDS
- Wizards are 0-4 ATS in the last 4 meetings in Philadelphia.
- Over is 6-1 in the last 7 meetings in Philadelphia.
ROSTER CHANGES
WASHINGTON
- STAY: Bradley Beal, Davis Bertans, Isaac Bonga, Troy Brown, Thomas Bryant, Rui Hachimura, Jerome Robinson, Ish Smith, Moritz Wagner, Anzejs Pasecniks (NG), Garrison Mathews.
- IN: Deni Avdija (R), Anthony Gill (R), Robin Lopez (MIL), Raul Neto (PHI), Russell Westbrook (HOU), Cassius Winston (R).
- OUT: Jerian Grant (HOU), Ian Mahinmi, Shabazz Napier, Gary Payton II, Admiral Schofield (OKC), Jarrod Uthoff (NOP), John Wall (HOU), Johnathan Williams.
PHILADELPHIA
- STAY: Joel Embiid, Tobias Harris, Furkan Korkmaz, Shake Milton, Mike Scott, Ben Simmons, Matisse Thybulle, Ryan Broekhoff (NG).
- IN: Justin Anderson (BKN), Tony Bradley (UTA), Seth Curry (DAL), Terrance Ferguson (OKC), Danny Green (LAL), Dwight Howard (LAL), Isaiah Joe (R), Dakota Mathias (R), Tyrese Maxey (R), Vincent Poirier (BOS), Paul Reed (R), Derrick Walton.
- OUT: Alec Burks (NYK), Al Horford (OKC), Raul Neto (WAS), Kyle O’Quinn, Norvel Pelle, Josh Richardson (DAL), Glenn Robinson III (SAC), Marial Shayok, Zhaire Smith.
2019/20 WIN/LOSS
| TEAM | W | L | HOME | ROAD |
| WAS | 25 | 47 | 16-20 | 9-27 |
| PHI | 43 | 30 | 31-4 | 12-26 |
2020/21 SEASON POINTS +/-
| TEAM | PPG | OPPG | DIFF | AV. TOT |
| WAS | 114.4 | 119.1 | -4.7 | 233.5 |
| PHI | 110.7 | 108.4 | +2.3 | 219.1 |
PICKS ATS
| Spread | Points | Result |
| WAS | UNDER | PHI |
| +7.5 | 228.5 | 113-107 |
The Wizards unveil their newest addition in Russell Westbrook, who was acquired from the Rockets in exchange for John Wall in the offseason. Westbrook will team with Bradley Beal (30.5 ppg last season) in a potent backcourt.
Washington finished last season at 25-47 with just 9 road wins. With Westbrook, Beal and key roster additions including Robin Lopez and first-round draft pick Deni Avdija, the Wizards are expected to and a few more wins to their tally in 2020/21.
The 76ers will play their first game under Doc Rivers, who replaces Brett Brown.
The Sixers, who were swept by the Celtics in the first round of last season’s playoffs, sured up their bench with shooters Seth Curry and Danny Green. They also signed 17-year veteran Dwight Howard to backup Embiid.
PICK – UNDER 228.5 TOTAL POINTS
MILWAUKEE @ BOSTON
PLAYER BETTING TRENDS
- Giannis Antetokounmpo has 30+ points in four of the Bucks’ last five road games against the Celtics. (28.5)
- Khris Middleton has 21+ points in six of the Bucks’ last seven games. (19.5)
- Marcus Smart has 19+ points in each of the Celtics’ last three games against the Bucks. (14.5)
- Daniel Theis has nine or more rebounds in each of the Celtics’ last three games against the Bucks. (6.5)
- Jrue Holiday has five or more rebounds in eight of his last 11 games. (4.5)
- Jayson Tatum has five or more assists in six of the Celtics’ last eight games. (4.5)
() = BOOKIE LINE
MATCHUP TRENDS
- Bucks are 3-7 ATS in the last 10 meetings in Boston.
- Bucks are 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings.
- Over is 14-4-1 in the last 19 meetings in Boston.
ROSTER CHANGES
MILWAUKEE
- STAY: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Thanasis Antetokounmpo, Pat Connaughton, Donte DiVincenzo, Brook Lopez, Khris Middleton, D.J. Wilson.
- IN: Jaylen Adams (POR), D.J. Augustin (ORL), Torrey Craig (DEN), Mamadi Diakite (R), Bryn Forbes (SAS), Treveon Graham (ATL), Jrue Holiday (NOP), Sam Merrill (R), Jordan Nwora (R), Justin Patton (DET), Bobby Portis (NYK), Nik Stauskas.
- OUT: Eric Bledsoe (NOP), Sterling Brown (HOU), George Hill (OKC), Ersan Ilyasova, Kyle Korver, Robin Lopez (WAS), Frank Mason III, Wesley Matthews (LAL), Cameron Reynolds (SAS), Marvin Williams.
BOSTON
- STAY: Jaylen Brown, Carsen Edwards, Romeo Langford, Semi Ojeleye, Marcus Smart, Jayson Tatum, Daniel Theis, Kemba Walker, Grant Williams, Robert Williams, Javonte Green (NG), Tacko Fall, Tremont Waters.
- IN: Amile Jefferson, Aaron Nesmith (R), Payton Pritchard (R), Jeff Teague (ATL), Tristan Thompson (CLE).
- OUT: Gordon Hayward (CHA), Enes Kanter (POR), Vincent Poirier (PHI), Brad Wanamaker (GSW).
2019/20 WIN/LOSS
| TEAM | W | L | HOME | ROAD |
| MIL | 56 | 17 | 30-5 | 26-12 |
| BOS | 48 | 24 | 26-10 | 22-14 |
2019/20 SEASON POINTS +/-
| TEAM | PPG | OPPG | DIFF | AV. TOT |
| MIL | 118.7 | 108.6 | +10.1 | 227.3 |
| BOS | 113.7 | 107.3 | +6.4 | 221.0 |
PICKS ATS
| Spread | Points | Result |
| BOS | OVER | BOS |
| +3.5 | 224.5 | 122-121 |
Milwaukee went a league best 56-17 during the 2019-20 regular season, but got bounced in five games by the Heat during the second round of the playoffs. Added via trade during the offseason are Jrue Holiday, veterans Bobby Portis, Bryn Forbes, Torrey Craig and D.J. Augustin.
The Celtics farewelled Gordon Hayward to the Hornets as part of a sign-and-trade deal. Hayward, oft-injured, averaged 17.5 ppg last season and looked to be getting into some form before another injury in the bubble.
Boston added former Cleveland big Tristan Thompson (12.0 points per game, 10.1 rebounds) but more important could be the signing of Jeff Teague as backcourt depth with Kemba Walker expected out until January after receiving a stem cell injection in his left knee.
With Giannis, Middleton and Holiday throwing up long balls for the Bucks and Tatum, Brown, Smart and others doing the same for the Celtics, the lean is on the Overs. The Overs has hit in 14 of the last 19 between the two played in Boston.
PICK – OVER 224.5 TOTAL POINTS
NEW ORLEANS @ TORONTO
PLAYER BETTING TRENDS
- Brandon Ingram has 25+ points in five of his last six games with the Pelicans as underdogs. (21.5)
- Pascal Siakam has 34+ points in each of the Raptors’ last two games against the Pelicans. (21.5)
- Steven Adams has 11+ rebounds in five of his last seven games. (8.5)
- Kyle Lowry has seven or more assists in six of his last eight games against the Pelicans. (6.5)
() = BOOKIE LINE
MATCHUP TRENDS
- Pelicans are 5-15-1 ATS in the last 21 meetings.
- Over is 4-1-1 in the last 6 meetings.
- Over is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings in Toronto.
ROSTER CHANGES
NEW ORLEANS
- STAY: Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Lonzo Ball, Josh Hart, Jaxson Hayes, Brandon Ingram, Nicolo Melli, J.J. Redick, Sindarius Thornwell, Zion Williamson.
- IN: Steven Adams (OKC), Rawle Alkins, Ike Anigbogu, Eric Bledsoe (MIL), Wenyen Gabriel (POR), Willy Hernangómez (CHA), Kira Lewis Jr. (R), Will Magnay (R), Naji Marshall (R), Jarrod Uthoff (WAS).
- OUT: Zylan Cheatham, Derrick Favors (UTA), Josh Gray, Jrue Holiday (MIL), Frank Jackson (OKC), Darius Miller (OKC), E’Twaun Moore (PHX), Jahlil Okafor (DET), Kenrich Williams (OKC).
TORONTO
- STAY: OG Anunoby, Chris Boucher, Terence Davis, Stanley Johnson, Kyle Lowry, Patrick McCaw, Norman Powell, Pascal Siakam, Fred VanVleet, Oshae Brissett (NG), Matt Thomas (NG), Paul Watson.
- IN: Aron Baynes (PHX), DeAndre’ Bembry (ATL), Henry Ellenson, Malachi Flynn (R), Jalen Harris (R), Alize Johnson (IND), Alex Len (SAC), Yuta Watanabe (MEM).
- OUT: Marc Gasol (LAL), Dewan Hernandez, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (MIN), Serge Ibaka (LAC), Malcolm Miller.
2019/20 WIN/LOSS
| TEAM | W | L | HOME | ROAD |
| NOR | 30 | 42 | 15-21 | 15-21 |
| TOR | 53 | 19 | 26-10 | 27-9 |
2020/21 SEASON POINTS +/-
| TEAM | PPG | OPPG | DIFF | AV. TOT |
| NOR | 115.8 | 117.1 | -1.3 | 232.9 |
| TOR | 112.8 | 106.5 | +6.3 | 219.3 |
PICKS ATS
| Spread | Points | Result |
| TOR | UNDER | NOR |
| -4.0 | 230.5 | 113-99 |
The Pelicans fired Alvin Gentry following and hired new head coach, Stan Van Gundy, who is known for his defense.
New Orleans mad some moves in the offseason, trading away Jrue Holiday, but acquiring Eric Bledsoe, George Hill, Steven Adams and draft picks. New Orleans also signed a five-year extension with Brandon Ingram. The Pelicans’ starting five should include Bledsoe, Ingram, Williamson, Adams and Lonzo Ball.
Siakam returns as likely leading scorer for Toronto, but the Raptors lost big vets in Serge Ibaka and Marc Gasol while adding Aron Baynes and Chris Boucher.
The starting five for Toronto should be Lowry and VanVleet in the backcourt with OG Anunoby, Siakam and Baynes in the front.
Like the more gelled squad of the Raptors to start 2020/21 with a dub.
PICK – TORONTO -4.0
ATLANTA @ CHICAGO
PLAYER BETTING TRENDS
- Lauri Markkanen has 19+ points in seven of his last eight games against the Hawks. (16.5)
- Danilo Gallinari has 22+ points in each of his last five games against the Bulls. (17.5)
- John Collins has 23+ points in eight of the Hawks’ last 10 road games. (21.5)
- Zach LaVine has 30+ points in five of his last six home games against Eastern opponents. (26.5)
- Coby White has 21+ points in seven of the Bulls’ last nine games. (19.5)
() = BOOKIE LINE
MATCHUP TRENDS
- Hawks are 2-8 ATS in the last 10 meetings.
- Under is 13-5 in the last 18 meetings in Chicago.
ROSTER CHANGES
ATLANTA
- STAY: Clint Capela, John Collins, Bruno Fernando, Brandon Goodwin, Kevin Huerter, De’Andre Hunter, Cam Reddish, Trae Young.
- IN: Bogdan Bogdanovic (SAC), Kris Dunn (CHI), Danilo Gallinari (OKC), Solomon Hill (MIA), Nathan Knight (R), Skylar Mays (R), Onyeka Okongwu (R), Rajon Rondo (LAL), Tony Snell (DET).
- OUT: DeAndre’ Bembry (TOR), Charlie Brown (MIN), Vince Carter, Dewayne Dedmon, Treveon Graham (MIL), Damian Jones (PHX), Skal Labissiere, Jeff Teague (BOS).
CHICAGO
- STAY: Ryan Arcidiacono, Wendell Carter Jr., Cristiano Felicio, Daniel Gafford, Chandler Hutchison, Luke Kornet, Zach LaVine, Lauri Markkanen, Otto Porter, Tomas Satoransky, Denzel Valentine, Coby White, Thaddeus Young, Adam Mokoka.
- IN: Devon Dotson (R), Zach Norvell Jr., Garrett Temple (BKN), Noah Vonleh (DEN), Patrick Williams (R).
- OUT: Kris Dunn (ATL), Shaquille Harrison (UTA), Max Strus (MIA).
2019/20 WIN/LOSS
| TEAM | W | L | HOME | ROAD |
| ATL | 20 | 47 | 14-20 | 6-27 |
| CHI | 22 | 43 | 14-20 | 8-23 |
2019/20 SEASON POINTS +/-
| TEAM | PPG | OPPG | DIFF | AV. TOT |
| ATL | 111.8 | 119.7 | -7.9 | 231.5 |
| CHI | 106.8 | 109.9 | -3.1 | 216.7 |
PICKS ATS
| Spread | Points | Result |
| CHI | UNDER | ATL |
| +2.0 | 229.5 | 124-104 |
Atlanta went 20-47 and had another disappointing season in 2019-20 and did not play in the Bubble restart.
Chicago should lock down on the Hawks’ offense and offensively behind White, LaVine and Carter they score enough to give the Bulls an opening night win.
PICK – CHICAGO +2.0
OKLAHOMA CITY @ HOUSTON
PLAYER BETTING TRENDS
- Christian Wood has 22+ points in each of his last four games. (18.5)
- Al Horford has 14+ points in 14 of his last 18 games against the Rockets. (12.5)
- James Harden has 34+ points in six of the Rockets’ last eight games against the Thunder at Toyota Center. (30.5)
- Danuel House Jr. has six or more rebounds in five of the Rockets’ last six games against the Thunder. (3.5)
() = BOOKIE LINE
MATCHUP TRENDS
- Under is 13-6 in the last 19 meetings.
- Thunder are 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
- Under is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings in Houston.
ROSTER CHANGES
OKLAHOMA CITY
- STAY: Darius Bazley, Hamidou Diallo, Luguentz Dort, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Mike Muscala, Isaiah Roby.
- IN: Trevor Ariza (POR), Moses Brown (POR), Josh Hall (R), George Hill (MIL), Al Horford (PHI), Frank Jackson (NOP), Justin Jackson (DAL), Ty Jerome (PHX), T.J. Leaf (IND), Théo Maledon (R), Darius Miller (NOP), Aleksej Pokusevski (R), Admiral Schofield (WAS), Kenrich Williams (NOP).
- OUT: Steven Adams (NOP), Deonte Burton, Terrance Ferguson (PHI), Danilo Gallinari (ATL), Devon Hall, Kevin Hervey, Abdel Nader (PHX), Nerlens Noel (NYK), Chris Paul (PHX), André Roberson, Dennis Schröder (LAL).
HOUSTON
- STAY: Eric Gordon, James Harden, Danuel House, Ben McLemore, David Nwaba, P.J. Tucker, Bruno Caboclo (NG), Chris Clemons (NG).
- IN: Sterling Brown (MIL), DeMarcus Cousins, Jerian Grant (WAS), Gerald Green, Mason Jones (R), K.J. Martin Jr. (R), Jae’Sean Tate (R), John Wall (WAS), Christian Wood (DET), Kenny Wooten (R).
- OUT: DeMarre Carroll, Tyson Chandler, Robert Covington (POR), Michael Frazier, Jeff Green (BKN), William Howard, Luc Mbah a Moute, Austin Rivers (NYK), Thabo Sefolosha, Russell Westbrook (WAS).
2019/20 WIN/LOSS
| TEAM | W | L | HOME | ROAD |
| OKC | 44 | 28 | 23-14 | 21-14 |
| HOU | 44 | 28 | 24-12 | 20-16 |
2020/21 SEASON POINTS +/-
| TEAM | PPG | OPPG | DIFF | AV. TOT |
| OKC | 110.4 | 108.4 | +2.0 | 218.8 |
| HOU | 117.8 | 114.8 | +3.0 | 232.6 |
PICKS ATS
| Spread | Points | Result |
| HOU | UNDER | POSTPONED |
| -7.5 | 225.5 |
Harden has made clear his want to leave the Rockets after eight seasons, a run that has brought in three scoring titles, two trips to the West Finals and an MVP trophy.
The experiment of teaming former teammates Harden and Russell Westbrook lasted all of one season, with Houston trading Westbrook to Washington in exchange for John Wall.
The Rockets also lost Robert Covington (Portland) and Jeff Green (Brooklyn), and guard Austin Rivers (New York) while letting coach Mike D’Antoni and general manager Daryl Morey walk.
Houston with James Harden, Eric Gordon and John Wall have much more experience than Oklahoma City and that combined with a deeper bench will give the Rockets the dub here.
PICK – HOUSTON -7.5
SAN ANTONIO @ MEMPHIS
PLAYER BETTING TRENDS
- LaMarcus Aldridge has 21+ points in four of his last five road games against the Grizzlies. (18.5)
- Jonas Valanciunas has 18+ points in four of the Grizzlies’ last five games against the Spurs. (14.5)
- Jonas Valanciunas has 16+ rebounds in each of the Grizzlies’ last six games at FedExForum. (12.5)
- DeMar DeRozan has seven or more assists in seven of the Spurs’ last nine games as underdogs. (6.5)
() = BOOKIE LINE
MATCHUP TRENDS
- Over is 8-3 in the last 11 meetings in Memphis.
ROSTER CHANGES
SAN ANTONIO
- STAY: LaMarcus Aldridge, DeMar DeRozan, Drew Eubanks, Rudy Gay, Keldon Johnson, Trey Lyles, Patrick Mills, Dejounte Murray, Jakob Pöltl, Luka Samanic, Lonnie Walker, Derrick White, Tyler Zeller (NG), Quinndary Weatherspoon.
- IN: Keita Bates-Diop (DEN), Tre Jones (R), Cameron Reynolds (MIL), Devin Vassell (R).
- OUT: Marco Belinelli, Bryn Forbes (MIL), Chimezie Metu (SAC).
MEMPHIS
- STAY: Grayson Allen, Kyle Anderson, Dillon Brooks, Brandon Clarke, Gorgui Dieng, Marko Guduric, Jaren Jackson Jr., Tyus Jones, John Konchar, De’Anthony Melton, Ja Morant, Jontay Porter, Jonas Valanciunas, Justise Winslow.
- IN: Desmond Bane (R), Sean McDermott (R), Killian Tillie (R), Xavier Tillman (R).
- OUT: Josh Jackson (DET), Anthony Tolliver, Yuta Watanabe (TOR).
2019/20 WIN/LOSS
| TEAM | W | L | HOME | ROAD |
| SAS | 32 | 39 | 19-15 | 13-24 |
| MEM | 34 | 39 | 20-17 | 14-22 |
2019/20 SEASON POINTS +/-
| TEAM | PPG | OPPG | DIFF | AV. TOT |
| SAS | 114.1 | 115.2 | -1.1 | 229.3 |
| MEM | 112.6 | 113.7 | -1.1 | 226.3 |
PICKS ATS
| Spread | Points | Result |
| MEM | UNDER | SAS |
| -2.0 | 230.5 | 131-119 |
The Spurs finished 32-39 last season and missed the playoffs for the first time in 23 years. Heading into 2020/21 they have a handful of older players who don’t fit the mold that Coach Pop seems to be moving toward, which is tougher defense and faster offense.
In saying that, the Spurs do have their youngest roster since Popovich became coach in 1996, with an average age of 25.5. But it also has vets LaMarcus Aldridge, DeMar DeRozan and Rudy Gay.
Memphis has one of the youngest rosters, with the average player just 24 years old, the standout being Ja Morant, the second overall pick in the 2019 draft who won Rookie of the Year, averaging team-highs of 17.8 points and 7.3 assists in 31 minutes per game.
Forwards Jaren Jackson Jr. (torn left meniscus) and Justise Winslow (hip injury) will be out tonight.
San Antonio has opened its offense from a half-court game to a transition game, which has should result in more points this season, but I think that 231.5 line is a bit high.
PICK – UNDER 231.5 TOTAL POINTS
DETROIT @ MINNESOTA
PLAYER BETTING TRENDS
- Karl-Anthony Towns has 28+ points in eight of his last 10 games as favourite against Eastern opponents. (26.5)
- Derrick Rose has 20+ points in each of his last three games against former teams. (17.5)
- Jerami Grant has 17+ points in each of his last three games. (13.5)
- D’Angelo Russell has five or more rebounds in six of his last seven games at Target Center. (3.5)
() = BOOKIE LINE
MATCHUP TRENDS
- Over is 7-1 in the last 8 meetings.
- Pistons are 8-1 ATS in the last 9 meetings.
- Pistons are 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings in Minnesota.
ROSTER CHANGES
DETROIT
- STAY: Sekou Doumbouya, Blake Griffin, Svi Mykhailiuk, Derrick Rose, Louis King.
- IN: Saddiq Bey (R), Wayne Ellington (NYK), Jerami Grant (DEN), Killian Hayes (R), Josh Jackson (MEM), Saben Lee (R), Rodney McGruder (LAC), Dzanan Musa (BKN), Jahlil Okafor (NOP), Mason Plumlee (DEN), Deividas Sirvydis (R), Isaiah Stewart (R), Delon Wright (DAL).
- OUT: Jordan Bone (ORL), Bruce Brown (BKN), Langston Galloway (PHX), John Henson, Luke Kennard (LAC), Brandon Knight, Thon Maker (CLE), Jordan McRae, Justin Patton (MIL), Tony Snell (ATL), Khyri Thomas, Christian Wood (HOU).
MINNESOTA
- STAY: Malik Beasley, Jarrett Culver, Juancho Hernangómez, Jake Layman, Josh Okogie, D’Angelo Russell, Karl-Anthony Towns, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jaylen Nowell (NG), Naz Reid (NG).
- IN: Charlie Brown (ATL), Tyler Cook (DEN), Ed Davis (UTA), Anthony Edwards (R), Ashton Hagans (R), Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (TOR), Jaden McDaniels (R), Ricky Rubio (PHX).
- OUT: Jacob Evans, James Johnson (DAL), Kelan Martin (IND), Jordan McLaughlin, Omari Spellman (NYK), Evan Turner.
2019/20 WIN/LOSS
| TEAM | W | L | HOME | ROAD |
| DET | 20 | 46 | 11-22 | 9-24 |
| MIN | 19 | 45 | 8-24 | 11-21 |
2020/21 SEASON POINTS +/-
| TEAM | PPG | OPPG | DIFF | AV. TOT |
| DET | 107.2 | 110.8 | -3.6 | 218.0 |
| MIN | 113.3 | 117.5 | -4.2 | 230.8 |
PICKS ATS
| Spread | Points | Result |
| MIN | UNDER | MIN |
| -4.5 | 225.5 | 111-101 |
Only four players from the core roster of the Pistons are back, including Blake Griffin, Derrick Rose, Svi Mykhailiuk and Sekou Doumboya. Detroit acquired Jeremy Grant, Mason Plumlee and top draft picks Killian Hayes, Isaiah Stewart and Saddiq Bey.
Minnesota begin the season with #1 draft pick Anthony Edwards and are headed in a new direction, led by Karl-Anthony Towns and D’Angelo Russell. Rookie Edwards could start but is likely to come off the bench. Ricky Rubio has returned and will provide leadership to the younger players on the roster.
Like the Timberwolves here and Unders. Can’t see where the Pistons points are coming from.
PICK – UNDER 225.5 TOTAL POINTS
SACRAMENTO @ DENVER
PLAYER BETTING TRENDS
- Nikola Jokic has 25+ points in each of the Nuggets’ last five games as favourites against Western opponents. (22.5)
- Buddy Hield has 20+ points in four of the Kings’ last five games against the Nuggets. (18.5)
- Harrison Barnes has 15+ points in 12 of his last 15 games against the Nuggets. (13.5)
- De’Aaron Fox has 26+ points in each of his last three games with the Kings as underdogs. (20.5)
- De’Aaron Fox has eight or more assists in each of his last four games against the Nuggets. (7.5)
() = BOOKIE LINE
TREND BET
SACRAMENTO
- Over is 4-1 in last 5 road games.
- Over is 9-3 in last 12 overall.
- Over is 8-3 in last 11 games playing on 3 or more days rest.
DENVER
- Over is 4-1 in last 5 overall.
- Over is 9-3-1 in last 13 home games.
MATCHUP
- Over is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings.
- Over is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings in Denver.
TREND BET – OVER 224.5 TOTAL POINTS
MATCHUP TRENDS
- Over is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings.
- Over is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings in Denver.
ROSTER CHANGES
SACRAMENTO
- STAY: Marvin Bagley III, Harrison Barnes, Nemanja Bjelica, De’Aaron Fox, Buddy Hield, Richaun Holmes, Justin James, DaQuan Jeffries, Cory Joseph, Jabari Parker, Kyle Guy.
- IN: Vincent Edwards, Tyrese Haliburton (R), Frank Kaminsky (PHX), Chimezie Metu (SAS), Jahmi’us Ramsey (R), Glenn Robinson III (PHI), Hassan Whiteside (POR), Robert Woodard (R).
- OUT: Kent Bazemore (GSW), Bogdan Bogdanovic (ATL), Corey Brewer, Yogi Ferrell, Harry Giles (POR), Alex Len (TOR).
DENVER
- STAY: Will Barton, Bol Bol, Vlatko Cancar, Gary Harris, Nikola Jokic, Paul Millsap, Monte Morris, Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr., P.J. Dozier (NG).
- IN: Facundo Campazzo (R), JaMychal Green (LAC), R.J. Hampton (R), Isaiah Hartenstein, Markus Howard (R), Zeke Nnaji (R), Greg Whittington (R).
- OUT: Keita Bates-Diop (SAS), Tyler Cook (MIN), Torrey Craig (MIL), Troy Daniels, Jerami Grant (DET), Mason Plumlee (DET), Noah Vonleh (CHI).
2019/20 WIN/LOSS
| TEAM | W | L | HOME | ROAD |
| SAC | 31 | 41 | 16-19 | 15-22 |
| DEN | 46 | 27 | 26-11 | 20-16 |
2019/20 SEASON POINTS +/-
| TEAM | PPG | OPPG | DIFF | AV. TOT |
| SAC | 110.1 | 112.1 | -2.0 | 222.2 |
| DEN | 111.3 | 109.2 | +2.1 | 220.5 |
PICKS ATS
| Spread | Points | Result |
| DEN | OVER | SAC |
| -7.5 | 224.5 | 124-122 1OT |
Returning for the Kings are De’Aaron Fox, Buddy Hield, Marvin Bagley III, Harrison Barnes and Richaun Holmes. These guys give Sac a solid core to work with.
Denver looks to bounce back from its loss in the Western Conference Finals to the Los Angeles Lakers. The one bright spot in the loss was the play of Jamal Murray while Michael Porter Jr also increased his role for the Nuggets. The surprisingly deep run in the Western Conference postseason for Denver has led to high expectations for the club in 2020-21.
Can’t go past the Overs here.
PICK – OVER 224.5 TOTAL POINTS
UTAH @ PORTLAND
PLAYER BETTING TRENDS
- Damian Lillard has 30+ points in seven of the Trail Blazers’ last eight home games against the Jazz. (28.5)
- Mike Conley has 17+ points in each of his last four road games against the Trail Blazers. (15.5)
- C.J. McCollum has 22+ points in five of the Trail Blazers’ last six games at Moda Center. (20.5)
- Rudy Gobert has 16+ points in eight of his last 11 games. (14.5)
- Robert Covington has seven or more rebounds in six of his last nine games against the Jazz. (6.5)
() = BOOKIE LINE
TREND BET
UTAH
- Over is 5-1 in Jazz last 6 road games.
- Over is 10-3 in Jazz last 13 overall.
PORTLAND
- Over is 26-11 in Trail Blazers last 37 overall.
- Over is 43-20-1 in Trail Blazers last 64 home games.
MATCHUP
- Over is 17-6 in the last 23 meetings in Portland.
- Over is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.
TREND BET – OVER TOTAL POINTS
MATCHUP TRENDS
- Jazz are 1-4 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
- Jazz are 2-7 ATS in the last 9 meetings in Portland.
- Over is 17-6 in the last 23 meetings in Portland.
- Over is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.
ROSTER CHANGES
UTAH
- STAY: Bojan Bogdanovic, Jordan Clarkson, Mike Conley, Rudy Gobert, Joe Ingles, Donovan Mitchell, Georges Niang, Royce O’Neale, Juwan Morgan (NG), Miye Oni (NG), Nigel Williams-Goss (NG), Jarrell Brantley.
- IN: Udoka Azubuike (R), Trevon Bluiett (R), Derrick Favors (NOP), Trent Forrest (R), Shaquille Harrison (CHI), Elijah Hughes (R).
- OUT: Tony Bradley (PHI), Ed Davis (MIN), Emmanuel Mudiay, Rayjon Tucker (LAC), Justin Wright-Foreman.
PORTLAND
- STAY: Carmelo Anthony, Zach Collins, Rodney Hood, Damian Lillard, Nassir Little, C.J. McCollum, Jusuf Nurkic, Anfernee Simons, Gary Trent Jr..
- IN: Keljin Blevins (R), Robert Covington (HOU), C.J. Elleby (R), Harry Giles (SAC), Derrick Jones Jr. (MIA), Enes Kanter (BOS).
- OUT: Jaylen Adams (MIL), Trevor Ariza (OKC), Moses Brown (OKC), Wenyen Gabriel (NOP), Mario Hezonja, Jaylen Hoard, Caleb Swanigan, Hassan Whiteside (SAC).
2019/20 WIN/LOSS
| TEAM | W | L | HOME | ROAD |
| UTA | 44 | 28 | 23-12 | 21-16 |
| POR | 35 | 39 | 21-15 | 14-24 |
2020/21 SEASON POINTS +/-
| TEAM | PPG | OPPG | DIFF | AV. TOT |
| UTA | 111.3 | 108.8 | +2.5 | 220.1 |
| POR | 115.0 | 116.1 | -1.1 | 231.1 |
PICKS ATS
| Spread | Points | Result |
| UTA | OVER | UTA |
| +2.0 | 228.5 | 120-100 |
Only a few plays separated Utah from a run to the 2020 Western Conference Finals and a first-round exit. That’s one reason they felt confident enough to bring back a roster largely unchanged.
High expectations also guide Portland coming out of an active offseason. Portland enter with very solid depth, versatility, and experience.
Portland acquired Robert Covington and Derrick Jones Jr. to shore up defensively. Enes Kanter and Carmelo Anthony also return to provide some scoring punch off the bench when Lillard and McCollum are resting.
Like Utah here.
PICK – UTAH +2.0
DALLAS @ PHOENIX
PLAYER BETTING TRENDS
- Deandre Ayton has 20+ points in four of his last five games at PHX Arena. (18.5)
- Mikal Bridges has 14+ points in each of the Suns’ last three games. (10.5)
- Devin Booker has 35 points in three of the Suns’ last four games. (27.5)
() = BOOKIE LINE
TREND BET
DALLAS
- 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games overall.
- 2-7 ATS in their last 9 road games.
- 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games playing on 3+ days rest.
PHOENIX
- 6-0 ATS in their last 6 home games.
- 10-1 ATS in their last 11 games overall.
- 8-0 ATS in their last 8 games following a ATS win.
MATCHUP
- Mavericks are 1-6 ATS in the last 7 meetings in Phoenix.
- Mavericks are 7-19 ATS in the last 26 meetings.
TREND BET – PHOENIX ATS
MATCHUP TRENDS
- Mavericks are 1-6 ATS in the last 7 meetings in Phoenix.
- Mavericks are 7-19 ATS in the last 26 meetings.
ROSTER CHANGES
DALLAS
- STAY: Jalen Brunson, Trey Burke, Willie Cauley-Stein, Luka Doncic, Dorian Finney-Smith, Tim Hardaway Jr., Maxi Kleber, Boban Marjanovic, Kristaps Porzingis, Dwight Powell, Courtney Lee (NG).
- IN: Tyler Bey (R), Josh Green (R), Nate Hinton (R), Wesley Iwundu (ORL), James Johnson (MIN), Josh Richardson (PHI), Tyrell Terry (R).
- OUT: José Juan Barea, Antonius Cleveland, Seth Curry (PHI), Justin Jackson (OKC), Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (NYK), Josh Reaves, Delon Wright (DET).
PHOENIX
- STAY: Deandre Ayton, Devin Booker, Mikal Bridges, Jevon Carter, Cameron Johnson, Cameron Payne, Dario Saric.
- IN: Ty-Shon Alexander (R), Jae Crowder (MIA), Langston Galloway (DET), Damian Jones (ATL), E’Twaun Moore (NOP), Johnathan Motley (LAC), Abdel Nader (OKC), Chris Paul (OKC), Jalen Smith (R).
- OUT: Aron Baynes (TOR), Cheick Diallo, Ty Jerome (OKC), Frank Kaminsky (SAC), Jalen Lecque (IND), Élie Okobo, Kelly Oubre (GSW), Tariq Owens, Ricky Rubio (MIN).
2019/20 WIN/LOSS
| TEAM | W | L | HOME | ROAD |
| DAL | 43 | 32 | 20-18 | 23-14 |
| PHX | 34 | 39 | 17-22 | 17-17 |
2019/20 SEASON POINTS +/-
| TEAM | PPG | OPPG | DIFF | AV. TOT |
| DAL | 117.0 | 112.1 | +4.9 | 229.1 |
| PHX | 113.6 | 113.4 | +0.2 | 227.0 |
PICKS ATS
| Spread | Points | Result |
| DAL | UNDER | PHO |
| -0.5 | 236.5 | 106-102 |
The Suns (34-39 in 2019-20) flew in the bubble, going on an 8-0 run and made an offseason move that could well end their postseason famine by acquiring Chris Paul from the Thunder.
Many eyes will be on the elite backcourt partnership of Paul and All-Star shooting guard Devin Booker, who averages 26.6 points in each of the past two seasons.
Doncic has 25 triple-doubles in only 133 career regular-season games. He averaged 28.8 points, 9.4 rebounds and 8.8 assists in 61 games last season and has been working his way into shape.
Porzingis is still recovering from right knee surgery, stemming from tearing his meniscus in mid-August during the series with Los Angeles.
Will be great to watch how the Suns start the year after putting together after an amazing bubble, and with all the moves they made in the offseason, they should be in the playoff picture.
PICK – UNDER 236.5 TOTAL POINTS
