NBA Betting Odds, Picks & Predictions for Thursday, October 20 (2022)
After a busy 12-game Wednesday in the NBA, we move back to a shallow two-game slate on Thursday. Let’s take a look at my predictions for how these games will shake out.
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All Odds via DraftKings Sportsbook
Milwaukee Bucks @ Philadelphia 76ers (-3.5) | O/U: 223.5
Philadelphia’s loss on opening night was less of an indictment of the 76ers than it was a reflection of how well Boston played. Philly G James Harden looked slim and played with confidence. Health willing, this version of the 76ers projects to be one of the best teams in the NBA. However, it is too early to have a pulse on either of these teams, especially considering the Bucks have yet to take the court. I’ll lean 76ers to cover the spread in their home opener, but it is much more comfortable to take the over in this spot.
The 76ers defense was absent in Boston on Tuesday night, and the team unit was especially bad in transition. Last season, Milwaukee ranked third in the NBA in transition offense, and it is reasonable to project similar efficiency this year. If the Bucks play with tempo, Philly is going to have to match and the Over may hit with ease.
Los Angeles Clippers @ Los Angeles Lakers (+5.5) | O/U: 225
Clippers -5.5
This line was Clippers -4 less than a week ago, and it would not be surprising were it to continue to move as we approach tip-off. I wrote Tuesday that the Lakers are “a team comprised of talented players who do not gel with one another on the court, and will lack chemistry early in the season.†So far, there is no reason to adjust such prior beliefs.
The Lakers’ abysmal performance on opening night was confirmation that they are not a good basketball team, and the Clippers should roll them in their opener. The Lakers roster lacks both depth and shooting - attributes the Clippers have in spades. Furthermore, it can be argued that the Lakers don’t hold an advantage over LAC in any facet.
Expect the Clippers’ depth at the wing to frustrate the Lakers and for the team’s second unit to overwhelm the Lakers’ reserve players. There isn’t an enticing number the sportsbooks could offer which would sway me to back the Lakers. Bet it and forget it.
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