Nice 3-0 night in the NBA Thursday, we need more of that. Onto TGIF and the weekend. And thank GOD it’s here, am I right?
NBA Premiums (52-42-1, 55%, +7.03 units):
76ers -1.5 (-110), to win 1.5 units
This line isn’t out everyone but I would take it up to -4. This is an astoundingly good spot for the 76ers. They’ll be coming off 2 straight wins, this is a revenge game, and Philly is off FIVE DAYS OF REST. That simply doesn’t happen in the NBA. Sure they may be slow to groove at first, but eventually the rest and time to prepare will make a difference. The Bucks are very hurt and they played spectacular basketball against the Cavs. It was all innovative, good defense and more dominance from Giannis in big spots. I love it, but against experienced teams it won’t be that easy. Embiid is playing some of his best basketball right now and it’s likely Maxey will be out. All Philly for me.
Grizzlies 1H -3 (-110), to win 1 unit
OKC/Grizzlies 1H over 118.5 (-110), to win 1 unit
The Grizzlies and Thunder are among the best 1st half teams on offense and the Thunder are one of the fastest teams in the NBA lately. What they’re not– very interested in defense, especially early in games. The Thunder should act as a pace-catalyst for the Grizzlies, who love to show out on their home floor. Love the Grizzlies to capitalize with Jaren Jackson back and off a tough loss against an OKC team that shouldn’t be able to stop their production in Memphis.
Bulls -9 (-110), to win 1 unit
This is what the Bulls do- they beat up on bad teams. It’s the first game of a long road trip for the Magic and the Bulls are healthier than ever. The Magic should still be without Paulo Banchero, too, who just announced he has to let his ankle rank even more. Against one a bottom tier offense, the shaky Chicago offense can shine. They still have way more talent. Hate betting on the Bulls but, go Bulls!
Suns/Jazz over 227 (-110), to win 1.5 units
The Suns are moving at a fast pace and even though their defense is elite, the Jazz are a juggernaut at home in all but their last game (the one we bet on) against the Knicks. Now that they’re settled, I expect their facilitative offense to get back to it’s true form and set the pace from the jump, Suns chasing or perhaps out-pacing the Jazz, whatever, I think this goes over. I have it at 235.
Lakers 1H -4 (-105), to win 1.5 units
This line is tepid because Lebron James and Anthony Davis could be out but I think at least one of them will play. AD is listed as probable, Lebron is questionable, but Lebron also knows this is a great chance for the Lakers to gain some confidence. The Pistons are off a tough-fought loss to the Clippers last night in LA. On a back to back, they’ll face a Lakers team off FIVE DAYS OF REST, just like Philly up above. Idc if only half the Lakers lineup plays, this is as good a spot and they’ll see all season. The Lakers must win this and they should by margin if they have any merit whatsoever. I think they start off red-hot in the first half; I trust that more than the full game.
NBA Friday Parlay (6 Team Moneyline, 0.5 units to win 2.14 units):
Cavs + Grizzlies + Bulls + Mavericks + Warriors + Lakers
This is a rare day with a lot of home favorites in a great position to at least win straight up, if not cover. Let’s take advantage!
