Tonight’s NBA slate features seven matchups, providing significant betting options on DraftKings Sportsbook. Here are my top betting picks for today’s NBA slate.
Before getting into the picks, here’s a look at the full schedule for today’s games:
Magic at 76ers, 7 p.m. EST
Lakers at Hawks, 7:30 p.m. EST
Bucks at Celtics, 7:30 p.m. EST
Pacers at Bulls, 8 p.m. EST
Kings at Spurs, 8 p.m. EST
Timberwolves at Warriors, 10 p.m. EST
Jazz at Trail Blazers, 10 p.m. EST
Timberwolves +1 (-115)
The Warriors are looking to rebound after ending their five-game losing streak with a win against the Rockets, but the Timberwolves have been on a roll. They are positioned to make it challenging for the Warriors again. Minnesota has won three straight, including impressive victories over the Lakers and Clippers. Their defense has been solid. If Stephen Curry and Draymond Green return for Golden State, the Timberwolves must continue their recent momentum defensively. That said, Minnesota is in a good position to cover the +1 spread.
Jazz +2.5 (-108)
The Jazz seek to snap a five-game losing streak when they face the Trail Blazers on Friday night. Utah has struggled with turnovers, committing 29 in their most recent loss to the Thunder, which led to a significant point discrepancy. However, Portland has not been much better in that department, ranking second-worst in turnovers per game. These are both bad teams, but Utah at least has an All-Star level talent in Lauri Markkanen, who could go off for a strong performance to help elevate the offense—making Utah a solid choice to cover a +2.5 spread.
Bucks +8 (-112)
The Bucks will face off against the Celtics in what promises to be an exciting matchup. Despite a tough loss to the Hawks, Milwaukee has had a strong run lately, winning seven straight before that defeat. They’ve had to adjust without Khris Middleton, but he returns to the lineup after offseason surgeries. Perhaps he will bring a necessary spark back in his first game. The Celtics, coming off a win over Detroit, have been playing well even with injuries to key players like Jayson Tatum and Jrue Holiday. They can comfortably beat just about anybody if they get hot from the perimeter. However, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s dominance in the paint and the Bucks’ depth will give them a solid chance to cover the +8 spread.
Lakers +5.5 (-112)
The Lakers are having a rough stretch, losing five of their last seven games, but they’ll be looking to turn things around in Atlanta. Los Angeles will need dynamic performances from LeBron James and Anthony Davis. However, the Lakers must find a way to contribute more as a team and avoid the blowout losses they’ve recently experienced. The level of urgency is high for them right now. The Hawks, who have won five straight, will be tough opponents, especially with their improved defense and balanced scoring attack. If you’re confident they will respond, this is an intriguing option. With Davis and James leading the way, they have the potential to cover the +4.5 spread, even on the road.
Keegan Murray Over 19.5 PTS + REB (-115)
Keegan Murray has been solid for the Kings this season, averaging 12.2 points and 7.9 rebounds per game. In his last outing, Murray had a double-double, scoring 11 points and grabbing 11 rebounds in a loss to the Grizzlies. The Spurs are a team that Murray can exploit with his ability to contribute offensively and on the boards. However, it remains to be seen if Victor Wembanyama will make his injury return for this game. Regardless, with Sacramento’s roster still adjusting, Murray has an increased role and consistently hits the boards. Expect him to surpass the 19.5 combined points and rebounds mark in this matchup.
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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.
