Free NBA Picks - Jan 5th, 2022

NBA: Nets (-8) @ Pacers $$

The Nets will be at full strength for the first time since round 1 of the NBA playoffs last season. Kyrie makes his season debut tonight on the road in Indiana. I’m not sure exactly what to expect from him tonight, but 35 points and 10 assists isn’t impossible. Neither would 4 points in 16 minutes be out of the question. That’s why I will be watching to see how the rollercoaster that is Kyrie plays out.

Regardless, James Harden has been playing much better in recent weeks and he is fully capable of dominating this game by himself. KD is still KD and he can get his 30 points anytime he wants. If this team can stay healthy for the remainder of the season, they will be the clear favortices to win the championship. That’s a big if though, so stay tuned.

But this pick is as much about the Pacers as it is the Nets. Indiana is the most recent team to be devastated injuries and quarantines. As far as I can tell, the Pacers will be hard pressed to field the minimum 8 players for tonights game. They are particularly absent at the both guard positions. Sabonis is a great player, but I’m not sure you want him bringing the ball up the court.

The Nets should be able to pick their score tonight depending on their mood. It should be more than 8 points.

NBA: Hornets (-10) Vs Pistons $

The Hornets have disappointed me twice already in the past week, but I still believe in this team. The were blown out by the Suns and lost a close game to the Wizards. The big point spread does not concern me as much it would for many other teams as they trail only the Jazz in points scored, so they can blow teams out on a good night.

The Pistons are terrible and sit firmly at the bottom of my power ratings despite being healthy for most of the season. Cade Cunningham has not yet lived up to his number over all lottery picks status. The only bright spot for this team so far has been Hamidou Diallo at small forward.