Tonight’s NBA Computer Picks for Night 2 of the NBA Play-In Tournament.
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CHICAGO @ MIAMI
Over/Under Prediction: Over 205.5 Total Points
Although both teams have strong trends towards hitting the Game Total Under, the recent performances of the Chicago Bulls suggest a higher-scoring game might be in play. The Bulls have surpassed the Game Total Over in their last five games.
Chicago has hit the 1Q Game Total Over in 25 of their last 35 away games (34% ROI). With Miami’s defensive strength typically in the second half, as indicated by their trend to hit the 4Q Game Total Under in 35 of their last 53 games (27% ROI), the early scoring from Chicago could push the total higher.
ATS Prediction: Miami Heat -1.5
Miami’s recent form following losses is strong, having won their last seven games after a defeat. This resilience is crucial and, combined with their success in covering the 2Q Spread in 18 of their last 21 games (60% ROI), suggests they could start strong and maintain the lead.
Meanwhile, Chicago, despite their ability to cover the 2Q Spread effectively, shows inconsistency in first quarters which could hinder their ability to cover the full game spread against a determined Miami.
Best Pick: Over 205.5 Total Points
NEW ORLEANS @ SACRAMENTO
Over/Under Prediction: Under 209.5 Total Points
This prediction leans towards an under total points scenario, primarily due to strong under trends from both teams. The Kings have notably hit the Game Total Under in 17 of their last 21 games, achieving an impressive 55% ROI. Moreover, they’ve excelled in the 1H Game Total Under in 16 of their last 19 games, showing a pattern of low-scoring first halves.
The Pelicans also contribute to this trend with their 4Q Game Total Under in 32 of their last 52 games. These trends suggest that both teams have a tendency to engage in lower-scoring games, which aligns well with a bet on the under for total points.
ATS Prediction: New Orleans Pelicans -1.0
Considering the Pelicans’ strong performance in the first half, where they’ve won the 1H Moneyline in 54 of their last 79 games and covered the 1H Spread in 45 of their last 73 games, there’s a good foundation to believe they will start the game strong.
The Pelicans have a trend of winning the first half in their recent encounters with the Kings. This consistency in early-game performance could be crucial in covering the spread, even as underdogs.
Best Pick: Under 209.5 Total Points
