NBA Odds, Picks & Predictions: Friday (11/1)
The NBA is back and we have a full slate of games today. We're going to highlight a couple you should pay attention to in the betting market.
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Friday's Best NBA Picks
(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)
Boston Celtics (-11) at Charlotte Hornets | O/U 231.5 (-110/-110)
The Celtics suffered their first season loss as Indiana closed them out in overtime. However, this is still one of the best two-way teams in the league, as they are first in adjusted offensive rankings and sixth in adjusted defensive rankings.
You have to look at how well they can shoot the three as they're shooting 40.7%, which is second, but their 21 made three-pointers per game are almost four more than the next team.
What could make this an exciting matchup is that the Hornets can also fire away from behind the arc. They are coming into this game third in three-pointers made (17.6) per game and sixth in three-point differential (+4.7).
We don't fully know what these teams are capable of this early in the season, but look for the Celtics to do their thing from three. Charlotte will also jack it up a ton.
Pick: Over 231.5 Points (-110)
Oklahoma City Thunder (-11.5) at Portland Trail Blazers | O/U 220 (-110/-110)
The Thunder was a hot championship team prediction this offseason as they have continually progressed over the last couple of seasons. The defense is their best attribute, as they are first in opponents’ field goal efficiency rating (43.7%).
They also have offensive talent. Chet Holmgren had a fantastic rookie season, averaging 16 points and eight rebounds, which have shot up to 22 and 11, respectively. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is their leader and could be in the MVP conversation at some point.
The Trail Blazers are on a completely different path. When they traded Damian Lillard last year they were prepared for the rebuild, which is evidenced by ranking 27th in adjusted net rating (-5.5).
Portland's chance at an upset will depend on whether they can keep up with the Thunder's pace of play. Their two wins this season are against the Clippers, who are 23rd in possessions per 48 minutes (98.7), and the Pelicans, who are 19th (99.4), both below Portland’s 100.2 (15th). Oklahoma City is a stellar fifth (103.3), so Portland might have trouble keeping up, especially against a well-rounded opponent.
Pick: Thunder -11.5 (-108)