Top NBA Odds, Picks & Predictions: Wednesday (3/5)
Not only do we have nine games on tonightâs NBA slate, but we also have two matchups featured on TNT.
After reviewing all nine matchups, Iâve decided on my favorite two bets for the night. Take a look at the best bets and analysis below for tonightâs games.
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Tuesdayâs Best NBA Bets
Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook | All wagers are for 1 unit
Boston Celtics vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
The Boston Celtics are currently on an 11-game winning streak. Theyâve also won eight consecutive road games heading into their game against the Cavaliers.
Most recently, the Celtics dominated the Warriors, 140-88, in one of the biggest routs of the season. Now theyâll head to Cleveland to face a Cavaliers team that wonât even have Donovan Mitchell.
The Cavaliers have lost two of their last three games, and Evan Mobley even complained about Jalen Brunsonâs injury ruining their vibe to begin the game. That was one of the weirder excuses weâve seen this year. But the reality is, the Cavaliers without Mitchell couldnât even get by the Knicks, who didnât have Brunson, Julius Randle, and OG Anunoby.
I must mention that Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porzingis are listed as questionable. But for now, it seems both will play in this game. Mitchell and Max Strus are already listed as out for the Cavaliers.
Many teams have struggled offensively against the Cavaliers. Cleveland has held teams to 111.4 points per 100 possessions, the second-best in the NBA. But if one team can score consistently against the Cavaliers, itâs the team that ranks No. 1 in points per possession on offense. Thatâs the Celtics, who have shot a 58.3% effective field goal percentage this season.
Meanwhile, the Celtics wonât force many turnovers defensively. But theyâll keep the Cavaliers away from high-quality looks and foul shot attempts. That should be enough for the Celtics to earn the win and cover on the road.
Bet: Celtics -8.5 (-110)
Indiana Pacers vs. Dallas Mavericks
The Mavericks have listed Luka Doncic as questionable for this matchup against the Pacers. But Iâd be surprised if he was actually ruled out.
Dallas has lost four of its last five games, including a 22-point loss to the Pacers on the road in late February. The Mavericks kept the game tight against Indiana until the fourth quarter. Thatâs when things went off the rails.
However, the Mavericks were on a long road trip for most of the losing streak and ultimately looked defeated in their last game against the 76ers, losing that game 120-116. It was Dallasâ first home game since February 22. But I think the Mavericks will regroup against the Pacers tonight.
Dallas doesnât play the best defense but should at least keep the Pacers from getting many foul-shot attempts. On the other hand, Iâm expecting the Mavericks to out-shoot an excellent Pacers offense. Dallas has scored 119.2 points per 100 possessions and will face a Pacers squad that has allowed 120.3 points per 100 possessions with a 56.9% effective field goal percentage.
The Mavericks should have more success than usual on the offensive glass and will likely see the foul line more consistently. Thatâs enough for me to take the Mavericks at -4.5 on their home floor.
Bet: Mavericks -4.5 (-110)
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