NBA Odds, Picks & Predictions: Friday (1/3)
We’re treated to a lineup of intriguing NBA matchups on Friday. We've handpicked two standout games to examine, so stay tuned as we break down the action.
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Friday's Best NBA Picks
(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)
New York Knicks vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (-4.5) | O/U 222 (-108/-112)
The Thunder look like the team to beat in the Western Conference. They just defeated the Clippers for their 13th consecutive win, their best winning streak since moving to Oklahoma City. This is the top defensive unit in the league, as they lead in defensive efficiency and points allowed. We have seen them shut down some of the best offenses.
They're not a huge scoring threat, but they find their spots and are efficient. They are ninth in offensive efficiency and 12th in floor percentage - led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is averaging 30.9 points per game (second).
The Knicks went all in to get Karl-Anthony Towns, which has paid off big time. He's averaging 24.9 points. His 13.7 rebounds per game ranks second. This has given Jalen Brunson the support he needed, and the Knicks don't need to solely rely on him to have big-time performances like last year.
One thing New York can do well is score on the fast break. Although their offense is one of the slowest-paced (28th), they are sixth in fast-break efficiency.
It will be tough for them because Oklahoma City is second in fast-break points allowed. Earning a 14 straight win is tough on a back-to-back night, but the Thunder should be able to contain the Knicks' strengths.
Pick: Thunder -4.5 (-105)
Atlanta Hawks vs. Los Angeles Lakers (-3.5) | O/U 232 (-108/-112)
The turnaround of the Hawks has been incredible to watch, as they are 11-5 in their last 16 games. It has to do with everyone understanding their roles. Trae Young was once their best scoring option and has had to chuck it 20 times a game. Now he has Jalen Johnson and De’Andre Hunter as viable scoring options, so now he's learning to be a dominant facilitator. He has 24 games of 10+ assists this season. He's a game-time decision with a hand issue, though, which is something to monitor.
It's been peaks and valleys all season in Los Angeles, and getting a read on the Lakers has been hard. After a 3-8 run a few weeks ago, they are now 5-2 in their last seven.
LeBron James played awful during that rough stretch and was shooting under 40% during part of that time. He took a couple of games off due to injury, which might have helped because he's shooting 50.4% and averaging 25 points in his last six games. Anthony Davis missed Thursday's game against Portland, so his status is something to monitor.
The Lakers have been a far better team at home and the Hawks have dropped three straight road games.
Pick: Lakers -3.5 (-112)