Wednesday night marks the return of Joel Embiid and that’s a big deal for the Sixers. The big guy leads his team in points and rebounds and makes a huge difference on defense. The Celtics were humbled on Sunday after taking a thrashing against the Knicks, and it looks like Jason Taytum has to sit out another game. This is a great spot for the Sixers, at home, against a team that’s gotten the best of them in recent history. I think Philadelphia will take advantage. Free Pick: 76ers -5 (-110), 1.5 units
This bet is all about the surging Nets. The addition of James Harden has Brooklyn on fire and tonight they’ll get the third leg of the big three back in Kyrie Irving. The Nets are 3rd in the NBA in points per game and I imagine they’ll finish in first. Guess where the Cavs are? Dead last. Give me the Nets in a blowout. Free Pick: Nets -10 (-110), 2 units
Sacramento can’t stop anyone and it’s a problem. Their defense ranks at the very bottom of the association, allowing over 123 ppg. The good news is they can keep up with any team, averaging over 114 ppg (9th in the NBA). The Clippers’ stars had their way with Sacramento in their first matchup and I don’t see any reason why that doesn’t continue tonight. Give me the over in a game that should offer multiple 60 point quarters. Free Pick: Kings/Clippers over 230 (-110), 2 units
