Top NBA Odds, Picks & Predictions: Friday (1/19)
We have a heavy NBA slate on tap for tonight, and add some interest by tailing our top plays for Friday night's action.
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Friday's NBA Best Bets
(Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook)
Denver Nuggets at Boston Celtics (-6) | O/U 234.5 (-110/-110)
This is clearly the matchup of the night, as this NBA Finals rematch could also be a possible NBA Finals preview.
It's hard to argue that the Celtics are not the best team in the league. They lead the league in Adjusted Net Rating, Adjusted Offensive Rating, and are second in Adjusted Defensive Rating. They are at full strength for this one as Kristaps Porzingis and Derrick White are expected to play after missing the last game against the Spurs.
The Nuggets aren't the top team in their conference or even division, but that's because they have dealt with injuries, including to key players like Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon. When they are all on the court, the offense is so potent, especially with Nikola Jokic playing at an MVP-caliber level once again.
The important stat is that Denver leads the league with 54.8 points per game in the paint. We'll have to see if Porzingis is 100%, but Jokic will have a large impact. Boston could get their 21st straight win at home, but Denver keeps it close.
Pick: Nuggets +6 (-112)
Phoenix Suns at New Orleans Pelicans (-2.5) | O/U 237.5 (-110/-110)
A lot is riding on the performance of Phoenix over the next few weeks. There were rumors during their early season struggles that if the team was out of contention, they might look to recoup picks they've recently traded away. With all of their starters, they've been on a great run, winning eight of their last 11, and six of those by double-digits.
The Pelicans also struggled early in the season as they didn't have CJ McCollum. They too now have their full roster of stars, and they've been one of the top teams in the league as they're ninth in Offensive and Defensive Adjusted Rating. They are just as hot as Phoenix having won eight of their last 11.
With how well both are offensively, it's not surprising that New Orleans is only a slight favorite. Where the Pelicans have the advantage is their defense on the perimeter, and that's how the Suns get their points. New Orleans should contain Phoenix from there and establish an inside presence to grab the win.
Pick: Pelicans -2.5 (-108)
Brooklyn Nets at Los Angeles Lakers (-6.5) | O/U 227.5 (-110/-110)
Are we finally seeing the Lakers right the ship? After a tough run following the In-Season Tournament, they've started to improve with wins in four of their last six, which include against the Clippers, Mavericks, and Thunder. D'Angelo Russell has been playing better by leading the team in points in three of their last four, while Anthony Davis is almost a lock for a nightly double-double.
It's a rebuilding period for Brooklyn as they sit eight games under .500 and have lost nine of their last ten. As we approach the trade deadline, we could see them send away some of their key pieces, including Mikal Bridges, who was their big return in the Kevin Durant trade, and possibly Cam Thomas.
The Lakers and Nets are heading in two different directions and at home, Los Angeles should cruise to a win.
Pick: Lakers -6.5 (-114)
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