Free NBA Picks – March 8th, 2022

Play-in Tournament

NBA: Hornets (+3) Vs Nets $

This is a matchup of the 8 and 9 teams in the east with each sporting identical 32-33 records and could easily be a preview of a play-in tournament game.

Kevin Durant dropped 31 and 37 points respectively in his first two games after returning from injury. That sounds promising but the Nets still lost both of those games against the Heat and Celtics. This is evidence that the Nets are quickly becoming irrelevant in the NBA playoff discussion. At this point, they would need to almost run the table on their remaining 17 game schedule to catch Cleveland and avoid the play-in. Is Ben Simmons even going to play at all this season? If he does, will it matter?

I’m not a huge fan of the Hornets as they do tend to take nights off defending their own basket. But they are very talented and can be competitive against any team when focused. Getting points at home is a bonus tonight as I would have made them at least even money against the struggling Nets.

NBA: Grizzlies (-5.5) Vs Pelicans $

The Pelicans are moving up the western conference standings currently holding 10th position and the final play-in spot. Making the playoffs for New Orleans is still not out of the question. But tonight they face one of the NBA’s elite teams in Memphis. This is a major step up in opposition for the Pelicans and I just do not think they are ready to win a game such as this.

The Grizzlies sport a spectacular 43-23 (65%) ATS record this season. The line maker still has not caught to this team and their depth of talent. Why is this line is not 8 or 9 points, I cannot say. The Grizzlies are a dominant team, with a dominant star in Ja Morant, playing at home against an average opponent. (-5.5) points is not too much too high a price to pay for such a team in this position

Follow my Daily Picks page for all my professional sports picks in the NBA.  I also coach live poker players, helping them win more often.  Of course, you can follow more of my NBA writings right here at Last Word on Sports or find me on Twitter to stay up to date on all my latest blogs and helpful tips to grow your bankroll.

Legend $$ – two unit bet $ – one unit bet

NBA odds provided by Odds Shark. Posted lines are of writing time.

Jason Grad

Jason Grad

Helping serious betters and collectors win more often and grow their portfolios. Follow me on Twitter for my daily sports picks and NFT portfolio management advice.

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