We've got another full slate of exciting NBA matchups. Let's examine two of them and dive into our best bets.
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Friday’s Best NBA Picks
(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)
Phoenix Suns vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (-7) | O/U 224.5 (-110/-110)
Every game for the Suns is crucial. If the season ended today, they would miss the postseason because the Mavericks have the No. 10 seed in the Western Conference. No one would have thought that with this collection of stars, they would be fighting just to get a chance for a playoff spot. Unfortunately, they’ve dealt with injuries throughout the season and have never had much time at full strength as a cohesive unit.
The Suns are dealing with that right now, as Bradley Beal has recently missed time. They have been playing better recently, though, winning four out of their last five games.
The Timberwolves are starting to move up the standings. While they are still in the NBA Play-In Tournament, if they stay hot, they could move into a playoff spot. It took some time for this team to adjust to life without Karl-Anthony Towns and the versatility he brings, but everyone is establishing their roles. Although Anthony Edwards isn't in the MVP conversation, his 27.3 points per game average is fourth in the league. You have to look at Edwards to play a large part in this matchup, as he's been crucial in the Timberwolves' wins against the Suns, averaging 33.7 points in three games.
Minnesota had a convincing 18-point win against Phoenix earlier in March, but the Suns have been better recently, specifically on defense. They are way above the 26th-ranked season-long defensive rating, ranking ninth in their last 10. Phoenix could keep this a close game.
Pick: Suns +7 (-110)
Cleveland Cavaliers (-5.5) vs. Detroit Pistons | O/U 227 (-110/-110)
The Cavaliers are starting to recover after a rough start to their road trip by winning three straight. They did hit the easier part of their schedule, as they've beaten the bottom three teams in the Western Conference - Jazz, Trail Blazers and Spurs.
With the season winding down, they have made it more interesting as the Celtics get hot. Boston is now only five games away from the No. 1 spot in the Eastern Conference. This will be a tough schedule with mostly playoff teams.
The Pistons are one of the best stories of the season, and this would be a signature win as the playoffs loom. They went from having the worst record and a 23-game losing streak last season to being a playoff contender this season.
They have a mix of young talent. Cade Cunningham (who is out tonight) and Jalen Duran are starting to establish themselves as stars with the help of veterans like Tobias Harris and Malik Beasley.
The last game was heartbreaking for Detroit as they lost on a Darius Garland buzzer-beater from the logo. J.B. Bickerstaff will have his current team ready against his old team. They could take advantage of a Cavs team not playing their best ball right now.
Pick: Pistons +5.5 (-112)
