With 10 NBA games on Tuesday, April 8, there’s plenty of action to dive into on DraftKings Sportsbook. Here’s a breakdown of the best betting picks for the night.
Here’s the full NBA schedule for April 8 (all times Eastern):
- Grizzlies at Hornets, 7 p.m.
- Bulls at Cavaliers, 7 p.m.
- Wizards at Pacers, 7 p.m.
- Hawks at Magic, 7 p.m.
- Pelicans at Nets, 7:30 p.m.
- Celtics at Knicks, 7:30 p.m.
- Timberwolves at Bucks, 8 p.m.
- Lakers at Thunder, 8 p.m.
- Warriors at Suns, 10 p.m.
- Spurs at Clippers, 10:30 p.m.
Magic -4 (-112)
The Magic host the Hawks in what could serve as a preview for the play-in tournament. Orlando enters this contest having won two straight, with their latest victory against Washington. Paolo Banchero has been dominant, notably in his career-high 33 points and 18 rebounds against the Wizards. The Magic have also been solid defensively, holding Washington to 18 points in the second quarter.
Orlando has a strong chance to cover the spread given its recent form and Atlanta’s struggles. The Hawks have lost five of their last seven games. While Onyeka Okongwu is making solid contributions, the Hawks will need an improved defensive effort to contain Banchero and Franz Wagner, who have been exceptional recently.
Pelicans +3 (-112)
The Pelicans are facing the Nets in Brooklyn. Despite having one of the worst records in the NBA, the Pelicans have continued to give their all, with notable performances from Yves Missi and Antonio Reeves. New Orleans enters this game with a 12.5% chance of landing the top pick in the NBA Draft, which makes every game down the stretch important.
Brooklyn has gone through a rebuilding year, using 40 different starting lineups this season. With key players like Nic Claxton and D’Angelo Russell potentially missing the game, the Pelicans have an opportunity to stay competitive in a matchup against a struggling Nets squad.
Celtics +2 (-112)
The Celtics are on a roll, with 11 wins in their last 12 games, including a 124-90 victory over the Washington Wizards. The Celtics have been shooting lights out, including a record-setting 3-point shooting performance. With players like Payton Pritchard, Derrick White, and Al Horford contributing to a well-balanced offensive attack, the Celtics have the tools to cover the +2 spread, even on the road.
New York has been inconsistent, but it will have to face a Boston team that is clicking on all cylinders. Boston is playing its best basketball of the season, and it is well-positioned to cover the spread and secure another win.
Bucks +5.5 (-108)
The Bucks are preparing to welcome back Bobby Portis after his 25-game suspension. Portis’ return gives the Bucks a much-needed boost heading into the playoffs. With Giannis Antetokounmpo continuing his MVP-caliber play and the Bucks currently on a four-game winning streak, they are well-positioned to cover the +5.5 spread against the Timberwolves, who are also riding a five-game winning streak.
Milwaukee’s deep roster, with key players like Damian Lillard (if healthy), Jrue Holiday, and Khris Middleton, gives them the edge over Minnesota, which continues to look for consistency on both sides of the ball.
Warriors -9.5 (-110)
The Warriors are looking to stay firmly in the top six in the Western Conference, and a win against the Suns is crucial for their playoff positioning. Despite a rare off night for Stephen Curry in their loss to the Houston Rockets, Golden State has been solid, especially with the addition of Jimmy Butler, who has brought new energy to the team.
Phoenix has struggled since losing Kevin Durant to injury, and its hopes of making the playoffs are rapidly fading. With its offense heavily reliant on Devin Booker and a shaky defense, Golden State should be able to cover the -9.5 spread, especially with its playoff positioning on the line.
