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NBA: Pistons (+5.5) Vs Hawks $
The incredible run the Pistons were riding for 14 consecutive games without an ATS loss finally came to an end as big home favourites on Monday night against the Magic. At this point of the season, the Pistons could almost be considered ‘average’. Realistically, ‘average’ may have to wait until next season for Detroit. I am happy to see Jerami Grant back in the lineup for this game after his monster 40 point game in Cleveland on Saturday.
But let’s be clear about the Hawks. At 36-36 for the season, they are the very definition of average. Despite what appears to be a very talented line-up they still rank 10th in the eastern conference standings just hanging on to the final play-in spot.
One may look at the 19-53 record of the Pistons and be tempted to think they should be large underdogs against the Hawks. But I see value here for the home side and this line should be much closer to a pick’em rather than (+5.5).
NBA: Pacers (-5.5) Vs Kings $
These two teams pulled off the big trade just prior to the deadline that saw Damontas Sabonis and Tyrese Haliburton switch uniforms along with several other pieces. Thus far, it is mostly unanimous amongst NBA analysts that the Pacers got the far better end of the deal in that trade.
Both teams are currently working with significant injuries. Haliburton is listed as questionable for this game, but I expect him to play with a chance to shine in front of his old team and mates. Sabonis is actually out for this game with a knee bruise and did not even make the trip back to Indiana.
These two teams once again look to be headed in opposite directions. The Pacers have shown an ability to score in bunches, so this matchup has blowout potential. With a high total of 236, I do not see this game being close. One team should win by 10 or more and my money is on it being the Pacers.
NBA: Timberwolves (+2) Vs Suns $
With just 10 games left in the regular season, the Phoenix has all but wrapped up the home-court advantage for the playoffs. Yet they continue winning while their team captain Chris Paul is still out of the lineup. You have to begin wondering when we can expect the Suns to finally let their right foot off the gas pedal and begin resting some players.
Is anyone playing as well as the Timberwolves right now? With wins in 10 of their last 12 games, Minnesota looks to be peaking at the perfect time. They currently sit just one game back of Denver with 10 games to play for the sixth spot in the western conference.
This pick comes down to a very basic motivation factor. The Timberwolves are focused and highly motivated at the moment. The Suns have won their last five games but what is their motivation knowing the remainder of the season really does not matter? This kind of intangible should be worth a couple of buckets that I do not see reflected in this line.
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NBA Odds provided by Odds Shark. Posted lines are of writing time.
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