With 12 matchups on the slate for Friday, it’s another action-packed day in the NBA. Here are some betting picks on DraftKings Sportsbook that stand out.
The full list of games can be found here:
Heat at Pacers, 7 p.m. ET
76ers at Magic, 7 p.m. ET
Pistons at Raptors, 7:30 p.m. ET
Wizards at Hawks, 7:30 p.m. ET
Bulls at Cavaliers, 7:30 p.m. ET
Nets at Knicks, 7:30 p.m. ET
Lakers at Spurs, 8:30 p.m. ET
Clippers at Rockets, 8 p.m. ET
Nuggets at Pelicans, 8 p.m. ET
Suns at Thunder, 8 p.m. ET
Grizzlies at Warriors, 10 p.m. ET
Timberwolves at Kings, 10 p.m. ET
Spurs +3.5 (-110)
This will be LeBron James’s first meeting with Victor Wembanyama this season. The Spurs are coming off a thrilling 139-130 win over the Wizards, powered by Wembanyama’s career-high 50 points, including eight three-pointers. He’s been on fire, shooting with confidence even after misses. San Antonio has won three of their last four at home and is gaining momentum.
The Lakers, led by James’ 35-point triple-double in Wednesday’s 128-123 win over the Grizzlies, are on a three-game streak. While James continues to perform at an elite level, the Lakers face challenges in their supporting cast. With the Spurs’ energy, Wembanyama’s growth, and a strong home record, San Antonio has a good shot to cover the +3.5 spread.
Rockets -4.5 (-115)
The Rockets defeated the Clippers 111-103 on Wednesday, led by Tari Eason and Amen Thompson, who combined for 36 points and 21 rebounds. Eason added a double-double, his fifth straight game scoring in double-digits, while Thompson grabbed six offensive boards in a season-high 34 minutes.
Their defensive impact was crucial. They excelled in containing the ball and off-ball situations, helping create chances for Houston in transition. The Clippers struggled with shot selection, especially after their hot start from three-point range, and were dominated by the glass. Houston capitalized with 18 offensive rebounds, resulting in 19 second-chance points and 24 fastbreak points. With Houston’s advantages in dirty work categories, they should cover the -4.5 spread at home.
Warriors -7.5 (-108)
The Warriors host the Grizzlies on Friday night in an NBA Cup matchup, aiming for a second straight home win after defeating the Mavericks 120-117 on Tuesday. Memphis, missing Ja Morant (hip) and GG Jackson II (foot), could also be without Desmond Bane (oblique), who’s questionable. Despite the injuries, Memphis has been scoring big, totaling 131, 128, 134, and 123 points in their last four games, winning three. However, they allowed 128 points in a loss to the Lakers, including 38 in the first quarter.
Golden State has lost De’Anthony Melton to an ACL injury. His absence could hurt the Warriors’ depth, but they’ve been explosive offensively, scoring 120-plus points in seven games this season, winning all of them. With Memphis struggling on defense and missing key players, the Warriors should cover the -7.5 spread at home.
Magic -2.5 (-108)
The Orlando Magic enter Friday’s NBA Cup matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers on a four-game win streak, dominating defensively by holding opponents to 94 points or fewer in each victory. Franz Wagner has averaged 27.8 points per game during this stretch, while Goga Bitadze has provided a spark with strong rebounding and scoring.
The 76ers, meanwhile, are still without Tyrese Maxey (hamstring). On top of that, Joel Embiid struggled in his season debut, shooting 2-of-11. Jared McCain has stepped up, but Philadelphia faces a tough challenge with key players sidelined. With Orlando’s strong defense and Philadelphia’s injury troubles, the Magic should cover the -2.5 spread at home.
Donovan Mitchell Over 26.5 Points (-110)
Donovan Mitchell is having a big season for the undefeated Cavaliers, averaging 23.6 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists across 13 games. However, he’s stepped up his game against the Chicago Bulls, having dropped 36 points, eight rebounds, and four steals in their first matchup this season.
With the Cavaliers sitting at a historic 13-0, Mitchell’s offensive production has been a key factor in their success. Facing a Bulls team that has struggled to contain him, Mitchell is primed to continue his strong form and surpass the 26.5-point mark on Friday. Given his recent performance and the high stakes of Cleveland’s perfect start, Mitchell is expected to play a pivotal role in extending the Cavaliers’ unbeaten run.
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All odds provided by DraftKings Sportsbook and all odds subject to change.
I am a promoter at DraftKings and am also an avid fan and user (my username is grant-afseth) and may sometimes play on my personal account in the games that I offer advice on. Although I have expressed my personal view on the games and strategies above, they do not necessarily reflect the view(s) of DraftKings and do not constitute a representation that any particular strategy will guarantee success. All customers should use their own skill and judgment in building lineups. I may also deploy different players and strategies than what I recommend above. I am not an employee of DraftKings and do not have access to any non-public information.
