Detroit Pistons (-135)
The Orlando Magic are a team that gets way too much respect on a nightly basis. They have featured one of the worst teams in the NBA this season, ranking 17th in the league in net offensive and defensive rating (-8.8). They also owns a 2-4 record at home, struggling to find an advantage in Orlando. The Detroit Pistons have also struggled at times this season, but rank 20th in the NBA in net off and def rating (-2.6). They have lost each of their last five games, but those losses came against the Boston Celtics (2), Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Miami Heat. This will be a significantly easier matchup, especially with Jonathan Isaac injured for Orlando. These odds should be wider in favor of Detroit, giving them odds value for the time being. The Detroit spread also makes sense, but I’ll be using that in the parlay for added value tonight.
Bet 3 units on the Detroit ML to win 2.2 units (-135)
Chicago Bulls (+505)/New Orleans Pelicans (-710)
This is a simple matchup of two of the worst defenses in the NBA this season. The Chicago Bulls and New Orleans Pelicans currently rank 25th and 27th in the NBA in defensive rating. Chicago has struggled offensively a bit this season, ranking only 22nd in the league in offensive rating, but New Orleans currently ranks seventh in the NBA in offensive rating. New Orleans will also be looking to push the pace in this game, while Chicago has been playing at a below average pace through 11 games. The Bulls are a team that isn’t afraid to get into a shootout, and the Pelicans are a team that strictly turns games into shootouts. New Orleans is averaging 118.6 points per game this season, and that could increase in a plus matchup. Furthermore, New Orleans is allowing their opponents to average 120.7 points per game, suggesting Chicago should also find ways to score in this game. Overall, this total seems a bit low for the two teams involved.
Bet 3 units on the Chicago/New Orleans OVER 229.5 to win 2.7 units (-110)
New York Knicks (N/A)
This line is a bit off for a multitude of reasons. The Atlanta Hawks have a few surprising wins on their record, but they have struggled to consistently produce. They rank 26th in the NBA in net off and def rating (-8.4). The New York Knicks have also struggled with consistency, placing some big wins and big losses. They currently rank 21st in the league in net off and def rating (-3.0), as well. The Hawks are also dealing with a few key injuries. John Collins will continue to remain sidelined, while Taurean Prince is expected to miss this game, as well. Tim Hardaway Jr., who was out for New York’s last game, is fully expected to play tonight. There are some concerns with New York playing on the road, but they should still be a larger favorite in this situation.
Bet 2 units on the New York -1.5 spread to win 1.9 units (-105)
NOTE: Taurean Prince is expected to start tonight, but I still favor New York.
Parlay Bet
Parlay 2 units on Detroit -2 spread, Oklahoma City/Cleveland UNDER 218, San Antonio/Miami OVER 217.5 to win 12 units (+600)
