NBA Odds, Picks & Predictions: Friday (4/4)

We’ve got another full slate of exciting NBA matchups. Let’s examine two of them and dive into our best NBA bets for Friday, April 4th.

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Friday's Best NBA Picks

(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)

Phoenix Suns vs. Boston Celtics (-14) | O/U 226 (-110/-110)

The Celtics had their nine-game winning streak snapped with an upset loss to Miami. They still made up a lot of ground for the No. 1 seed, but they might come just short of catching up to Cleveland.

Their defense was excellent during the winning streak, ranking second in defense rating (112.3). That was a big part of their 132-102 win over Phoenix last Wednesday, holding them to just 41% from the floor.

The Suns are only one game from the No. 10 seed, but it feels like they have packed it in. They have lost four straight and two of the games by 30+ points. Kevin Durant could have played his last game as a member of the Suns as he deals with an ankle issue.

The Suns have been terrible on both sides of the ball, especially on defense. They've allowed at least 130 points in three of the last four games, including against the Celtics. If Phoenix continues to play uninspiring defense, the game could go over.

Pick: Over 226 Points (-110)

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Utah Jazz vs. Indiana Pacers (-16) | O/U 238.5 (-112/-108)

The Pacers have officially earned a playoff spot. They are currently the No. 4 seed, but that isn't locked in yet. With six games remaining, they are only three games behind New York for the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference. They are only three games ahead of Milwaukee and Detroit, so they could finish as low as No. 6.

The biggest difference between this season and last, in which they made the Eastern Conference Finals, is the improvement of the defense. Last year, they finished 24th in defensive rating; this year, they are 19th. However, they got much better halfway through the season and have been 11th in defensive rating since December 17th. We're also seeing Pascal Siakam establish himself as the prime scoring option for this roster, while Tyrese Halliburton has become the facilitator. This is a dynamic offense.

The Jazz are limping to the end of the season, having dropped seven straight. They have the worst record in the league. There is some optimism because of young talent like Walker Kessler and Keyonte George. They'll have a chance at the No. 1 pick in the draft. If they can get Cooper Flagg and add veteran role players, they could have a turnaround season in 2026.

There is no slowing down the Pacers right and they need every win.

Pick: Pacers -16 (-112)

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Make sure to check out our other best bets for Friday: