With three NBA matchups scheduled for Friday, December 20, bettors have no shortage of action on DraftKings Sportsbook to dive into. Here are my top betting picks for today’s NBA card.
Here’s a look at the full schedule for today’s games:
Hornets at 76ers, 6:30 p.m. EST
Bucks at Cavaliers, 7:00 p.m. EST
Thunder at Heat, 7:30 p.m. EST
Hornets +10.5 (-108)
The Hornets are coming off a tough loss to the Wizards, their 11th in 12 games. Charlotte will face a 76ers team that could be without Joel Embiid due to a sinus fracture since he’s questionable. On Monday, Tyrese Maxey and Paul George had explosive performances, leading the 76ers to a 121-108 victory. Regardless, Charlotte may have a chance to cover the spread in a high-scoring affair. Keep an eye on LaMelo Ball, who recorded a career-high 34 points and 13 assists in the loss to Washington. With Embiid’s status uncertain, this could be a pivotal game for Charlotte to stay competitive and keep the 10.5-point spread within reach.
Bucks +9 (-108)
The Bucks enter Cleveland after securing the NBA Cup with a dominant performance over the Thunder. Giannis Antetokounmpo’s triple-double and MVP-caliber performance in the final shows that the Bucks are rounding into championship form. Despite impressive wins over Brooklyn, Cleveland must contend with Antetokounmpo’s high-level play. With both teams missing key pieces—Milwaukee may be without Khris Middleton, and Cleveland will be missing Isaac Okoro—the game could go down to the wire. Given the Bucks’ offensive firepower and defense, they’re well-positioned to cover the +9 spread, especially after their Cup success. One factor to watch is Max Strus’ status, given he’s questionable. Still, he’s likely to make his season debut after previous anticipation late last week before Friday’s win over the Wizards, but he proved unable to give it a go after seeing how his ankle responded to a stretch of hard practices. Cleveland will need to get used to him being back if he can ultimately play.
Heat +1 (-108)
The Heat look to bounce back after a tough overtime loss to the Pistons earlier in the week. While many focus on developments in the trade market, Jimmy Butler posted his first triple-double of the season in the loss, showcasing his ability to impact the game across all facets with 35 points, 19 rebounds, and 10 assists. The Heat’s defense has been strong, and they’ve been good at creating turnovers. Meanwhile, the Thunder will be playing their third game in four nights. The well-rested Heat should be able to handle the Thunder’s fast pace and match up with Oklahoma City, making them a good pick to cover the +1 spread in this close contest.
Jarrett Allen Double-Double +100
Jarrett Allen has been consistent for the Cavaliers, averaging 13.6 points and 10.3 rebounds per game this season. His strong presence in the paint will be crucial against the Bucks, who will challenge him defensively. Allen has posted 16 double-doubles already this season, and with both teams battling for playoff positioning, expect another strong performance from the Cavs’ center. At +100, the value for a double-double is clear, given Allen’s consistent rebounding and scoring presence.
LaMelo Ball Over 27.5 Points (-110)
LaMelo Ball has been the focal point of the Hornets’ offense, averaging 30.4 points per game along with 7.5 assists and 5.3 rebounds. He has surpassed 28 points in 13 games this season, showcasing his ability to take over games. In the last game against the 76ers, he posted 15 points and 11 assists on December 16. With Charlotte playing a back-to-back and needing strong performances to keep the game close, expect Ball to set the tone. His scoring ability and recent form make the Over on 27.5 points a solid pick for Friday’s game.
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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.
