Category: NBA

At 8:00 ET, the Sacramento Kings (-231) will travel to take on the New Orleans Pelicans (+192) in a Western Conference matchup. Sacramento is currently favored by 6 points and has won two straight games. New Orleans is 5-20 on the season and has lost two straight.

This game will be played at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans and can be seen on NBCS.

SACRAMENTO KINGS VS NEW ORLEANS PELICANS BETTING PICK

The Pick: Sacramento Kings -6

This game will be played at Smoothie King Center at 8:00 ET on Thursday, December 12th.

WHY BET THE SACRAMENTO KINGS:

• We have this one finishing with a projected score of 132-106 in favor of the Kings.
• Our projections have De’Aaron Fox finishing with 25 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists.
• From the field, we have the Kings finishing with a field goal percentage of 47.1% and knocking down 14 threes.

Will the Kings Defense Show Up on the Road?

The Kings improved to 12-13 on the season with a dominant 141-97 win over the Jazz on Sunday. Sacramento, who were -11 point favorites, covered the spread with ease. The total points for the game reached 238, just surpassing the O/U line of 235.

After a close 1st quarter, the Kings took control by outscoring the Jazz 36-22 in the 2nd quarter. A 12-0 run extended their lead from 89-72 to 101-72, and they finished strong by outscoring Utah 36-23 in the final quarter.

In their 141-97 win over the Jazz, the Kings shot 57% from the field and hit 22 threes at a 50% clip. Kevin Huerter led the way with 26 points, knocking down 6 threes at 66.7% efficiency.

De’Aaron Fox added 21 points, and Domantas Sabonis contributed 19 points and 12 rebounds. Doug McDermott scored all 18 of his points in the 4th quarter.

The Kings put together a strong defensive performance on Sunday, holding the Jazz to just 97 points. Sacramento gave up 23 points in both the 1st and 4th quarters and limited Utah to 22 points in the 2nd. The Jazz shot 38% from the field.

From beyond the arc, Utah hit 15 threes on 35% shooting. The Jazz also went 20/21 from the free-throw line. The Kings grabbed 34 defensive rebounds, allowing 9 offensive boards, and added 10 steals and 7 blocks.

Can the Pelicans Offense Score Enough at Home?

The Pelicans fell to 5-20 after a 121-116 road loss to the Spurs on Sunday. New Orleans entered the game as +7 point underdogs and managed to cover the spread, though they couldn’t pull off the win. The total score of 237 points exceeded the pre-game O/U line of 223.5 by 13.5 points.

New Orleans started strong, leading 34-28 after the 1st quarter, but a 43-point 2nd quarter by the Spurs, including an 11-0 run, put them in a hole. The Pelicans fought back, winning the 3rd quarter 25-21 and keeping pace in the 4th, but couldn’t close the gap.

Trey Murphy III led the Pelicans with 25 points and 6 rebounds in their 121-116 loss to the Spurs, hitting 4 threes at a 40% clip. CJ McCollum added 19 points and 5 assists, while Yves Missi contributed 18 points and 14 boards.

New Orleans connected on 13 threes, shooting 34.2% from deep and 43.4% overall. Murphy scored 10 points in the 1st quarter and added 9 more in the 4th.

Despite a strong defensive effort in the 3rd quarter, the Pelicans couldn’t overcome a rough 2nd quarter, where they allowed 43 points, leading to a 121-116 loss to the Spurs. New Orleans held San Antonio to 12 made threes on 30% shooting from beyond the arc.

The Pelicans sent the Spurs to the line 31 times, where they converted 25 free throws. New Orleans gave up 16 offensive rebounds but managed to record 9 steals and 8 blocks in the game.

At 7:30 ET, the Miami Heat (-534) will host the Toronto Raptors (+402) in an Eastern Conference matchup. Miami is currently favored by 10.5 points, and the over/under line is set at 224.

The Heat (12-10) have won three straight games and are currently 5th in the Eastern Conference. On the other hand, the Raptors (7-18) have lost three straight and are 14th in the East.

TORONTO RAPTORS VS MIAMI HEAT BETTING PICK

The Pick: Miami Heat -10.5

This game will be played at Kaseya Center at 7:30 ET on Thursday, December 12th.

WHY BET THE MIAMI HEAT:

• We have this one finishing with a projected score of 137-113 in favor of the Heat.
• Our projections have Tyler Herro finishing with 21 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists.
• From the field, we have the Heat finishing with a field goal percentage of 46.3% and knocking down 16 threes.

Do the Raptors Stand a Chance on the Road?

Toronto’s season record dropped to 7-18 after a 113-108 home loss to the Knicks on Monday. The Raptors, who were +7.5 point underdogs, managed to cover the spread. The game’s total of 221 points fell short of the 231.5-point O/U line.

A 13-0 run helped Toronto take the lead, but they couldn’t hold on, as the Knicks outscored them 30-22 in the 4th quarter to seal the win.

RJ Barrett led the Raptors with 30 points and 8 rebounds in their 113-108 loss to the Knicks, shooting 54.2% from the field and hitting 3 threes at 42.9%. Ja’Kobe Walter added 19 points, also connecting on 3 threes at 42.9%, while Scottie Barnes contributed 15 points, making 3 threes at 37.5%.

As a team, the Raptors made 13 threes, shooting 37.1% from beyond the arc, though their overall field goal percentage was 44.8%. Barrett scored 9 points in the 2nd quarter, while Walter added 10 of his 19 points in the same period.

Defensively, the Raptors struggled in the 1st and 4th quarters, giving up 34 and 30 points, respectively, in their 113-108 loss to the Knicks. They did manage to tighten up in the middle quarters, allowing just 26 points in the 2nd and 23 in the 3rd.

Toronto allowed the Knicks to shoot 51% from the field, including 42% from three-point range, where New York hit 17 threes. The Raptors sent the Knicks to the line 19 times, where they made 12 free throws. On the boards, Toronto gave up 6 offensive rebounds while recording 4 steals and 4 blocks.

Will the Heat Win at Home?

Miami improved to 12-10 on the season with a 122-113 win over the Cavaliers on Sunday. The Heat were +2.5 point underdogs heading into the game but covered the spread with the win. The total score of 235 points exceeded the O/U line of 222.5 by 12.5 points.

After a slow start, where Cleveland went on a 10-0 run, Miami responded by outscoring the Cavs 38-26 in the 2nd quarter. They extended their lead to 90-80 going into the 4th, and while Cleveland edged Miami 33-32 in the final quarter, the Heat’s strong 2nd and 3rd quarters were enough to secure the win.

Tyler Herro’s 34-point performance, including 19 in the 3rd quarter, led the Heat to a 122-113 win over the Cavaliers. Herro hit 5 threes at a 55.6% rate, while Duncan Robinson added 23 points, connecting on 4 threes at 66.7%.

Miami made 16 threes, shooting 43.2% from deep and 47.7% overall. Dru Smith contributed all 11 of his points in the 4th quarter, and Terry Rozier added 6 of his 14 points in the final period.

Even with a 33-point 4th quarter, the Heat’s defense gave up 113 points but still secured the win over the Cavaliers. Miami allowed 25 points in the 1st quarter and 26 in the 2nd before Cleveland scored 29 in the 3rd.

Miami’s defense struggled from beyond the arc, with Cleveland hitting 14 threes at a 42% rate. The Cavaliers also went 17/18 from the free-throw line. The Heat grabbed 37 defensive rebounds, allowing just 5 offensive boards, and added 4 steals and 4 blocks.

In a matchup of Eastern Conference teams, the Pistons (10-15) travel to take on the Celtics (19-5) at TD Garden in Boston. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 ET.

According to oddsmakers, the Celtics (-844) are 12.5-point favorites over the Pistons (+573) and the over/under line for this game is 227.5 points. NBCS will televise this game.

DETROIT PISTONS VS BOSTON CELTICS BETTING PICK

The Pick: Boston Celtics -12.5

This game will be played at TD Garden at 7:30 ET on Thursday, December 12th.

WHY BET THE BOSTON CELTICS:

• We have this one finishing with a projected score of 143-128 in favor of the Celtics.
• Our projections have Jayson Tatum finishing with 26 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists.
• From the field, we have the Celtics finishing with a field goal percentage of 48.1% and knocking down 20 threes.

Can Detroit Pull Out the Win as Road Underdogs?

The Pistons improved to 10-15 on the season with a 120-111 road win over the Knicks on Saturday. Detroit, who entered the game as +8.5 point underdogs, not only pulled off the upset but also covered the spread. The total points for the game reached 231, surpassing the pre-game O/U line of 225.

Detroit’s 10-0 run early in the game set the tone, as they jumped out to a 12-5 lead. They dominated the 1st quarter, outscoring New York 39-23. Though the Knicks fought back in the 2nd and 3rd quarters, the Pistons entered the 4th with an 89-85 lead and finished strong, outscoring New York 31-26 in the final period.

The Pistons shot 51.8% from the field and knocked down 18 threes at a 50% clip in their win over the Knicks. Cade Cunningham led the way with a triple-double, posting 29 points, 15 assists, and 10 rebounds, hitting 5 threes at 62.5%.

Malik Beasley added 23 points, connecting on 7 threes at 70%. He scored 12 points in the 1st quarter, while Cunningham poured in 16 in the 2nd. Jaden Ivey and Beasley both contributed 7 points in the 4th.

Despite giving up 111 points on 53% shooting, the Pistons managed to secure a win over the Knicks. Their toughest stretch came in the 2nd quarter, where they allowed 35 points, but they tightened up in the 4th, giving up just 26 points to help seal the victory.

Detroit did a solid job defending the three, holding New York to 32% shooting from deep with 11 made threes. The Pistons also limited the Knicks’ trips to the free-throw line, where they went 16/27. On the boards, Detroit gave up just 4 offensive rebounds and recorded 7 steals.

Will the Boston Defense Show Up at Home?

The Celtics fell to 19-5 on the season after a 127-121 home loss to the Grizzlies on Saturday. Boston, favored by 7.5 points, failed to cover the spread. The total points of 248 exceeded the O/U line of 237.5.

Memphis went on a 10-0 run early, taking control from 11-8 to 18-11. Boston struggled in the 2nd quarter, being outscored 35-27, but fought back in the 3rd, winning it 35-28. They entered the 4th down 94-89 but couldn’t complete the comeback, as the Grizzlies edged them 33-32 in the final quarter.

In their 127-121 loss to the Grizzlies, the Celtics shot just 40% from the field and 30% from beyond the arc, though they did hit 18 threes. Jrue Holiday led Boston with 23 points, despite shooting 23.5% from three and 30.8% overall.

Jaylen Brown and Payton Pritchard each added 22 points, with Brown shooting 71.4% and Pritchard hitting 6 threes at a 54.5% clip. Brown scored 14 points in the 4th quarter, while Pritchard added 9 in the final period.

The Celtics struggled defensively against the Grizzlies, giving up 127 points while allowing Memphis to shoot 50% from the field. Boston allowed 31 points in the 1st quarter and 35 in the 2nd, but they tightened up a bit in the 3rd, giving up 28 points before allowing 33 in the 4th.

From beyond the arc, the Grizzlies hit 15 threes at a 45% clip. The Celtics sent Memphis to the line 23 times, where they made 18 free throws. Boston finished with 36 defensive rebounds, allowing 11 offensive boards, and recorded 6 steals and 7 blocks.

At 9:30 ET, the Houston Rockets (-128) will host the Golden State Warriors (+108) in a Western Conference matchup. The Rockets are currently favored by 2 points and the over/under line is set at 221.

This game will be played at the Toyota Center in Houston and can be seen on TNT. The Rockets come into this game with a record of 16-8, which has them sitting 3rd in the Western Conference. The Warriors are 14-9 and currently sit 5th in the Western Conference.

GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS VS HOUSTON ROCKETS BETTING PICK

The Pick: Houston Rockets -2

This game will be played at Toyota Center at 9:30 ET on Wednesday, December 11th.

WHY BET THE HOUSTON ROCKETS:

• We have this one finishing with a projected score of 136-110 in favor of the Rockets.
• Our projections have Jalen Green finishing with 21 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists.
• From the field, we have the Rockets finishing with a field goal percentage of 45.5% and knocking down 14 threes.

Will Golden State Find a Way to Win on the Road?

The Warriors improved to 14-9 on the season with a 114-106 win over the Timberwolves on Sunday. Golden State, favored by 1.5 points, covered the spread with the eight-point victory. The total score of 220 points narrowly went over the pre-game line of 215.5.

After falling behind 30-21 in the 1st quarter, the Warriors battled back, tying the 2nd quarter 28-28. A dominant 3rd quarter, where they outscored Minnesota 44-32, put them in control. They then held the Timberwolves to just 16 points in the 4th quarter to seal the win.

Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 30 points and 8 assists in their win over the Timberwolves, hitting 5 threes at a 45.5% rate. Buddy Hield added 27 points, connecting on 7 threes at 53.8% efficiency.

The Warriors made 16 threes as a team, shooting 39% from deep and 46.7% overall. Curry scored 15 points in the 2nd quarter, while Hield and Kuminga each added 11 points in the 3rd.

The Warriors gave up 106 points to the Timberwolves but locked down defensively in the 4th quarter, allowing just 16 points to secure the win. Overall, they allowed Minnesota to shoot 45% from the field.

Golden State struggled to defend the three, with the Timberwolves hitting 19 threes at a 45% clip. The Warriors sent Minnesota to the line 20 times, where they made 15 free throws. Defensively, the Warriors grabbed 31 rebounds, gave up 7 offensive boards, and recorded 8 steals and 6 blocks.

Can the Houston Offense Score Enough at Home?

On Sunday, the Rockets improved to 16-8 this season with a 117-106 road win over the Clippers. Houston, favored by 3 points, covered the spread, and the game’s total of 223 points exceeded the O/U line of 214 by 9 points.

A key moment came when the Rockets went on a 12-0 run, stretching the score from 53-50 to 62-53. Houston then took control by winning the 2nd quarter 34-24 and maintained their lead by entering the 4th quarter up 95-83.

Jalen Green led the Rockets with 31 points and 5 made threes in their 117-106 win over the Clippers, shooting 38.5% from deep. As a team, Houston connected on 15 threes at a 36.6% rate, finishing with an overall field goal percentage of 48.8%.

Amen Thompson added 22 points, including 11 in the 3rd quarter, while Dillon Brooks contributed 19 points and 4 made threes, shooting 50% from beyond the arc. Green scored 11 points in the opening quarter, and Aaron Holiday chipped in 6 of his 11 points in the 4th.

The Rockets held the Clippers to 106 points on Sunday, giving up 28 points in the 1st quarter but tightening up in the 4th, where they allowed just 23 points. Houston’s defense was solid in the 2nd quarter as well, limiting the Clippers to 24 points.

Houston’s defense did well from beyond the arc, holding the Clippers to 11 made threes on 32% shooting. They also sent the Clippers to the line only 16 times, where they made 13 free throws. The Rockets grabbed 38 defensive rebounds, allowing 7 offensive boards.

At 7:00 ET, the New York Knicks (-292) will host the Atlanta Hawks (+239) in an Eastern Conference matchup. The Knicks are favored by 7 points, and the over/under line is set at 236.5.

This game will be played at Madison Square Garden in New York. The Knicks are currently 4th in the Eastern Conference with a record of 15-9. The Hawks are 7th in the East at 13-12.

ATLANTA HAWKS VS NEW YORK KNICKS BETTING PICK

The Pick: Atlanta Hawks +7

This game will be played at Madison Square Garden at 7:00 ET on Wednesday, December 11th.

WHY BET THE ATLANTA HAWKS:

• We have this one finishing with a projected score of 138-132 in favor of the Hawks.
• Our projections have Trae Young finishing with 21 points, 3 rebounds and 11 assists.
• From the field, we have the Hawks finishing with a field goal percentage of 45.9% and knocking down 16 threes.

Will the Hawks Defense Show Up on the Road?

The Hawks fell to 13-12 on the season after a 141-111 loss to the Nuggets on Sunday. Atlanta, favored by 1.5 points at home, not only lost the game but also failed to cover the spread. The total score of 252 points exceeded the over/under line of 240.5 by 11.5 points.

Atlanta got off to a slow start, trailing 38-23 after the 1st quarter and 71-48 at halftime. They briefly rallied with a 10-0 run, cutting the score from 95-67 to 95-77, but Denver pulled away again in the 4th quarter, outscoring the Hawks 35-27.

In their 141-111 loss to the Nuggets, the Hawks shot just 40.6% from the field and connected on only 9 threes at a 22.5% rate. De’Andre Hunter led the team with 20 points, though he shot just 35% from the floor.

Dyson Daniels added 18 points, with 8 coming in the 3rd quarter. Trae Young scored 12 of his 15 points in the 4th quarter, while Larry Nance finished with 16 points, contributing 5 in the 3rd.

It was a tough defensive outing for the Hawks, who gave up 141 points to the Nuggets on Sunday. Atlanta allowed at least 33 points in every quarter, including 38 in the 1st. Denver shot 62% from the field overall.

The Hawks did limit the Nuggets to 12 made threes, but Denver still hit 44% from deep. Atlanta sent the Nuggets to the line 24 times, where they made 17 free throws. The Hawks finished with 12 steals and 2 blocks.

Will New York Live Up to Expectations at Home?

With a 113-108 victory over the Raptors on Monday, the Knicks improved to 15-9 for the season. New York, favored by 7.5 points, didn’t cover the spread, but they did pick up the win. The game’s total of 221 points fell short of the 231.5-point O/U line.

New York started strong, leading 34-27 after the 1st quarter, but the Raptors went on a 13-0 run to take control. The Knicks trailed 86-83 going into the 4th but turned things around by outscoring Toronto 30-22 in the final quarter.

The Knicks shot 51.2% from the field and hit 17 threes at a 42.5% clip in their win over the Raptors. Karl-Anthony Towns led the way with 24 points and 15 rebounds, while Mikal Bridges added 23 points, knocking down 5 threes at 62.5% efficiency.

Jalen Brunson contributed 20 points and 11 assists, connecting on 4 threes. Towns and Bridges both scored 10 points in the 4th quarter, with Brunson adding 4 of his 9 4th quarter points in the final period.

Despite giving up 34 points in the 2nd quarter, the Knicks tightened up defensively in the 2nd half, allowing just 47 points to the Raptors, including 22 in the 4th quarter, to secure the win. Overall, they held Toronto to 44% shooting from the field.

From beyond the arc, the Knicks allowed the Raptors to hit 13 threes on 37% shooting. They also sent Toronto to the free-throw line 11 times, where the Raptors made 9. Defensively, New York recorded 7 steals and 7 blocks.

At 9:30 ET, the Thunder (-174) will host the Mavericks (+146) in a Western Conference matchup. Oklahoma City (-4) is currently on a 3-game win streak and is 1st in the Western Conference with an 18-5 record. Dallas (+4) has won 7 straight games and is 4th in the West at 16-8.

This game will be played at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City and can be seen on TNT. The over/under line for this game is currently sitting at 231.5 points.

DALLAS MAVERICKS VS OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER BETTING PICK

The Pick: Dallas Mavericks +4

This game will be played at Paycom Center at 9:30 ET on Tuesday, December 10th.

WHY BET THE DALLAS MAVERICKS:

• We have this one finishing with a projected score of 130-116 in favor of the Mavericks.
• Our projections have Luka Doncic finishing with 30 points, 10 rebounds and 9 assists.
• From the field, we have the Mavericks finishing with a field goal percentage of 48.5% and knocking down 16 threes.

Will the Mavericks Pull Through as the Away Underdog?

The Mavericks improved to 16-8 on the season with a 125-118 win over the Raptors on Saturday. Dallas was favored by 8 points going into the game but didn’t cover the spread. The total points for the game ended at 243, exceeding the over/under line of 235.5.

Dallas jumped out to a big lead, outscoring Toronto 35-28 in the 1st quarter and 35-26 in the 2nd. They led 100-87 going into the 4th, but the Raptors went on a 13-0 run to close the gap. Dallas held on for the win, but Toronto made it interesting by outscoring them 31-25 in the final quarter.

Luka Doncic’s triple-double of 30 points, 13 rebounds, and 11 assists led the Mavericks to a 125-118 win over the Raptors, with Doncic and Kyrie Irving each hitting 6 threes. Irving shot 66.7% from deep and added 29 points, including 16 in the 1st quarter.

Dallas hit 17 threes at a 37.8% rate, with an overall FG% of 46.9%. Klay Thompson contributed 20 points, scoring 7 in the 4th quarter, while Doncic added 11 in the 3rd.

Defensively, the Mavericks held the Raptors to 118 points on Saturday, giving up 28 points in the 1st quarter and 26 in the 2nd. However, they allowed 33 points in the 3rd and 31 in the 4th. Toronto shot 46% from the field.

From beyond the arc, the Raptors hit 15 threes at a 38% clip. Dallas sent Toronto to the line 18 times, where they made 17 free throws. The Mavericks grabbed 38 defensive rebounds, allowing 8 offensive boards, while also recording 10 steals and 8 blocks.

Can Oklahoma City Lock in a Home Win?

Oklahoma City improved to 18-5 this season with a 119-109 road win over the Pelicans on Saturday. The Thunder, favored by 8 points, covered the spread, and the game’s total of 228 points went over the 222.5 line.

OKC took control early with a 10-0 run, turning a 2-0 deficit into a 10-2 lead. They dominated the 1st and 2nd quarters, outscoring New Orleans 77-51. The Pelicans fought back in the 3rd and 4th quarters, but the Thunder’s 99-80 lead heading into the final period was too much to overcome.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder to a win over the Pelicans with 31 points, including 16 in the opening quarter. Jalen Williams added 27 points, scoring 12 in the 2nd quarter.

Oklahoma City shot 52.9% from the field, hitting 12 threes at a 37.5% clip. Luguentz Dort and Williams each made 4 threes, with Dort shooting 57.1% from deep.

Defensively, the Thunder held the Pelicans to 109 points on Saturday, allowing 23 points in the 1st quarter. Oklahoma City gave up 28 points in the 2nd quarter, 29 in the 3rd, and 29 in the 4th.

Oklahoma City limited New Orleans to 11 made threes on 29% shooting from beyond the arc. The Thunder also collected 13 steals in the game.

At 7:00 ET, the Magic (+245) will travel to Milwaukee to take on the Bucks (-300) in an Eastern Conference matchup. The over/under line for this game is currently set at 213 points.

Orlando is currently 17-9 and in 3rd place in the Eastern Conference. The Bucks are 12-11 and in 6th place in the East.

ORLANDO MAGIC VS MILWAUKEE BUCKS BETTING PICK

The Pick: Milwaukee Bucks -7.5

This game will be played at Fiserv Forum at 7:00 ET on Tuesday, December 10th.

WHY BET THE MILWAUKEE BUCKS:

• We have this one finishing with a projected score of 142-79 in favor of the Bucks.
• Our projections have Giannis Antetokounmpo finishing with 30 points, 11 rebounds and 7 assists.
• From the field, we have the Bucks finishing with a field goal percentage of 47.7% and knocking down 17 threes.

Can The Magic Secure a Win at Milwaukee?

Orlando improved to 17-9 on the season with a 115-110 win over the Suns on Sunday. Playing at home, the Magic were favored by 2 points and covered the spread. The game’s total of 225 points went over the 213.5-point line.

After the Suns went on a 14-0 run early, the Magic battled back. The teams tied in the 2nd quarter, but Orlando edged Phoenix 27-25 in the 3rd. The Magic then outscored the Suns 31-23 in the 4th to secure the win.

Jalen Suggs led the Magic with 26 points and 4 made threes in their win over the Suns, shooting 40% from deep. He scored 14 of his points in the 4th quarter. Goga Bitadze contributed 21 points and 16 rebounds, shooting 53.3% from the field, with 10 of his points coming in the 3rd quarter.

Orlando made 12 threes, shooting 33.3% from beyond the arc, and finished with an overall field goal percentage of 47.7%. Cole Anthony added 14 points, scoring 7 of those in the opening quarter.

Despite a rough start, giving up 34 points in the 1st quarter, the Magic tightened up defensively as the game went on, allowing just 23 points in the 4th to help secure the win. Overall, they gave up 110 points on 47% shooting from the field.

Orlando struggled to defend the three, with the Suns hitting 13 threes at a 46% clip. The Magic sent Phoenix to the line 22 times, where they made 19 free throws. Defensively, the Magic recorded 11 steals and 6 blocks.

Will Milwaukee Find a Way to Win at Home?

The Bucks moved above .500 with a 118-113 road win over the Nets on Sunday, improving their record to 12-11. Milwaukee entered the game as 6-point favorites but didn’t cover the spread, winning by five. The total points for the game were 231, surpassing the O/U line of 215.5 by 15.5 points.

A key moment came when the Bucks went on a 10-0 run, extending their lead from 86-79 to 96-79. Milwaukee and Brooklyn were tied at 86 heading into the 4th quarter, but the Bucks outscored the Nets 32-27 in the final period to seal the win.

Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks to a win over the Nets, scoring 34 points and grabbing 11 rebounds, shooting 63.6% from the field. Bobby Portis added 23 points, hitting 5 threes at 100% efficiency, and Gary Trent Jr. contributed 20 points, making 3 threes.

Milwaukee shot 57.4% from the field and 48.4% from three, making 15 threes overall. Giannis scored 15 points in the 3rd quarter, while Portis added 12 points in the 4th.

Even with the Nets shooting 50% from the field, the Bucks managed to hold them to 113 points and get the win. Milwaukee gave up 34 points in the 3rd quarter but limited Brooklyn to 27 points in both the 2nd and 4th quarters.

The Bucks allowed 16 threes on 45% shooting from deep. Brooklyn also went 15/16 from the free-throw line. Milwaukee finished with 28 defensive rebounds, giving up 7 offensive boards, and added 6 steals and 7 blocks.

At 7:30 ET, the Raptors will host the Knicks in a divisional matchup. The Knicks are favored by 6.5 points and have a moneyline of -247. The over/under line is set at 231.

Currently, the Knicks are 14-9 and 4th in the East. The Raptors are 7-17 and have lost two straight games. The game can be seen on NBA TV.

NEW YORK KNICKS VS TORONTO RAPTORS BETTING PICK

The Pick: Toronto Raptors +6.5

This game will be played at Scotiabank Arena at 7:30 ET on Monday, December 9th.

WHY BET THE TORONTO RAPTORS:

• We have this one finishing with a projected score of 133-132 in favor of the Knicks.
• Our projections have Jalen Brunson finishing with 30 points, 3 rebounds and 7 assists.
• From the field, we have the Knicks finishing with a field goal percentage of 46.7% and knocking down 16 threes.

Can the Knicks Deliver Being Favored on the Road?

New York dropped to 14-9 on the season after a 120-111 loss to the Pistons on Saturday. The Knicks were -8.5 point favorites at home but failed to cover the spread. The total points for the game reached 231, going over the pre-game line of 225.

Detroit set the tone early with a 10-0 run, taking the score from 5-2 to 12-5. The Knicks battled back, winning the 2nd quarter 35-30 and the 3rd 27-20, but they couldn’t complete the comeback, as the Pistons outscored them 31-26 in the 4th.

Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 31 points and 10 assists in their loss to the Pistons, shooting 52.4% from the field and hitting 3 threes at 42.9%. Mikal Bridges added 20 points, also making 3 threes, though he shot just 33.3% from deep.

As a team, the Knicks shot 53.2% from the field, but struggled from beyond the arc, hitting 11 threes at 32.4%. Brunson scored 11 points in the 2nd quarter, while Josh Hart added 9 of his 17 points in the period.

The Knicks struggled defensively, giving up 120 points to the Pistons, including a rough 1st quarter where they allowed 39 points. They tightened up in the 3rd, holding Detroit to 20 points, but a 31-point 4th quarter sealed their fate.

Detroit shot 51% from the field, including 18 threes at a 50% clip. The Knicks sent the Pistons to the line 19 times, where they hit 16 free throws. New York finished with 27 defensive rebounds, allowing 9 offensive boards, while adding 11 steals and 5 blocks.

Will the Raptors Secure A Victory as Home Underdogs?

Toronto’s season record dropped to 7-17 after a 125-118 home loss to Dallas on Saturday. The Raptors entered the game as +8 point underdogs and managed to cover the spread, losing by 7. The total points for the game were 243, exceeding the O/U line of 235.5 by 7.5 points.

Toronto fell behind early, losing the first two quarters 35-28 and 35-26. They made a push in the second half, going on a 13-0 run to cut the score from 100-79 to 100-92, and outscored Dallas 31-25 in the 4th quarter.

Gradey Dick led the Raptors with 27 points, hitting 5 threes at 35.7% in their 125-118 loss to the Mavericks. He shot 38.1% from the field, adding 8 points in both the 1st and 3rd quarters. Jakob Poeltl contributed 20 points and 7 assists, shooting 63.6%, while Scottie Barnes added 19 points, 14 assists, and 3 threes at 42.9%.

As a team, Toronto hit 15 threes, shooting 38.5% from deep and 46.2% overall. RJ Barrett scored 10 of his 18 points in the 2nd quarter, and Kelly Olynyk added 13 points, with 5 coming in the 3rd quarter.

The Raptors struggled defensively against the Mavericks, giving up 35 points in both the 1st and 2nd quarters. They tightened up in the 4th, allowing just 25 points, but it wasn’t enough as they allowed 125 points on 46% shooting.

Toronto also sent Dallas to the line 37 times, where they made 32 free throws. The Mavericks hit 17 threes at a 37% clip. The Raptors recorded 13 steals and 3 blocks in the game.

Two teams on three-game losing streaks will meet at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles for a 9:30 ET tip-off. The Lakers are favored by 8.5 points over the Trail Blazers in a Western Conference matchup. The over/under line is set at 225.5.

Portland is 8-15 on the season and 13th in the West. They are 307 underdogs on the moneyline. The Lakers are 12-11 and 10th in the conference. They are -387 favorites on the moneyline.

PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS VS LOS ANGELES LAKERS BETTING PICK

The Pick: Portland Trail Blazers +8.5

This game will be played at Crypto.com Arena at 9:30 ET on Sunday, December 8th.

WHY BET THE PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS:

• We have this one finishing with a projected score of 149-125 in favor of the Trail Blazers.
• Our projections have Anfernee Simons finishing with 20 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists.
• From the field, we have the Trail Blazers finishing with a field goal percentage of 44.0% and knocking down 15 threes.

Can the Trail Blazers Lock in a Win at Los Angeles?

The Trail Blazers fell to 8-15 on the season after a 141-99 loss to the Jazz on Friday. Portland, favored by 4 points at home, not only lost but failed to cover the spread. The game’s total points of 240 exceeded the O/U line of 224.5 by 15.5 points.

Utah’s 11-0 run early on set the tone, and they never looked back. The Jazz outscored Portland in every quarter, including a 39-29 edge in the 4th, after leading 102-70 going into the final period.

In their 141-99 loss to the Jazz, the Trail Blazers shot just 38.9% from the field. Their three-point shooting was also below average, hitting 29.8% from deep, though they did connect on 14 threes.

Dalano Banton and Jerami Grant each scored 19 points, with Banton putting up 14 in the 4th quarter. Kris Murray also added 12 of his 14 points in the final period.

Defensively, the Trail Blazers struggled throughout the game, giving up 141 points to the Jazz. Portland allowed 33 points in the 1st quarter, 34 in the 2nd, 35 in the 3rd, and 39 in the 4th. Utah shot 55% from the field.

From beyond the arc, the Jazz hit 14 threes at a 43% clip. Portland also sent Utah to the line 23 times, where they made 21 free throws. The Trail Blazers recorded 28 defensive rebounds, while allowing 11 offensive boards, and finished with 4 steals and 7 blocks.

Will Los Angeles Make it Happen at Home?

The Lakers fell to 12-11 on the season after a 134-132 road loss to the Hawks on Friday. Despite being +4 point underdogs, L.A. kept it close, losing by just two points. The game’s total of 266 points went well over the 234.5 O/U line.

After a 13-0 run put the Lakers ahead 79-67, Atlanta battled back. L.A. led 97-94 going into the 4th quarter, but the Hawks outscored them 25-22 in the final period to secure the win.

LeBron James and Anthony Davis combined for 77 points in the Lakers’ 134-132 loss to the Hawks, with LeBron posting a triple-double, including 6 made threes at 54.5% efficiency. The Lakers shot 51.5% from the field and hit 16 threes at a 45.7% rate.

LeBron scored 14 points in the 4th quarter, while Davis added 4 points in both the 4th and overtime. Dalton Knecht contributed 7 of his 14 points in the 3rd quarter.

Despite a solid defensive effort in the 1st and 4th quarters, the Lakers couldn’t contain the Hawks in the 2nd, giving up 38 points in a 134-132 loss. Atlanta shot 50% from the field overall.

The Lakers struggled to defend the three, allowing the Hawks to hit 17 threes at a 42% clip. Los Angeles sent Atlanta to the line 22 times, where they made 17 free throws. The Lakers finished with 11 steals and 10 blocks.

At 9:00 ET, the Kings (-692) will host the Jazz (+499) in a Western Conference matchup. The Kings are favored by 12 points, and the over/under line is set at 231. The game will be played at the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento.

Utah is currently 14th in the Western Conference with a record of 5-17, while the Kings are 12th in the West at 11-13. NBCS will have the TV coverage for this game.

UTAH JAZZ VS SACRAMENTO KINGS BETTING PICK

The Pick: Utah Jazz +12

This game will be played at Golden 1 Center at 9:00 ET on Sunday, December 8th.

WHY BET THE UTAH JAZZ:

• We have this one finishing with a projected score of 132-123 in favor of the Kings.
• Our projections have De’Aaron Fox finishing with 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists.
• From the field, we have the Kings finishing with a field goal percentage of 47.6% and knocking down 13 threes.

Does Utah Have A Chance at Golden 1 Center?

The Jazz improved to 5-17 this season after a dominant 141-99 win over the Trail Blazers on Friday. Utah, who entered the game as +4 point underdogs, not only won but covered the spread with a +42 point margin. The total score of 240 points went over the pre-game line of 224.5 by 15.5 points.

Utah took control early with an 11-0 run, turning a 5-3 deficit into a 14-5 lead. They led 33-17 after the 1st quarter and continued to build on that, outscoring Portland 34-27 in the 2nd, 35-26 in the 3rd, and 39-29 in the 4th. Heading into the final quarter, the Jazz were already up 102-70.

The Jazz put up 141 points in their win over the Trail Blazers, shooting 55.2% from the field and hitting 14 threes at a 43.8% clip. Johnny Juzang led the way with 22 points, knocking down 6 threes, while John Collins added 20 points, shooting 70% from the floor.

Juzang scored 10 points in the 4th quarter, while Isaiah Collier and Brice Sensabaugh each added 9 points in the final frame. Drew Eubanks also contributed 8 of his 12 points in the 4th quarter.

The Jazz put on a defensive clinic on Friday, holding the Trail Blazers to just 99 points. Utah set the tone early, allowing only 17 points in the 1st quarter. They gave up 27 points in the 2nd and 26 in the 3rd before a 29-point 4th quarter.

Utah’s defense was strong, limiting Portland to 38% shooting, including 29% from three-point range, where the Blazers made 14 threes. The Jazz also sent Portland to the line 17 times, where they made 11 free throws. Utah controlled the boards with 50 defensive rebounds, allowing just 6 offensive boards.

Do the Kings Stand a Chance at Home?

The Kings moved to 11-13 on the season after a dominant 140-113 win over the Spurs on Friday. Sacramento, favored by 6.5 points, covered the spread with a +27 point margin. The game’s total of 253 points exceeded the 228-point O/U line.

After the Spurs went on a 10-0 run early, the Kings responded by outscoring them 36-26 in the 2nd quarter. Sacramento then extended their lead by winning the 3rd quarter 31-27 and closed out the game strong with a 40-27 advantage in the 4th.

The Kings put up 140 points in their win over the Spurs, shooting 56.7% from the field and hitting 16 threes at a 47.1% clip. DeMar DeRozan led the way with 23 points, while De’Aaron Fox, Malik Monk, and Domantas Sabonis each added 22.

Fox and Monk both scored 7 points in the 3rd quarter, while Kevin Huerter added 8 of his 16 points in the 4th. DeRozan scored 10 points in the 2nd quarter, and Sabonis added 8 in the 3rd.

Despite a shaky start, the Kings tightened up their defense after the 1st quarter, allowing just 27 points in each of the final three quarters to secure a 140-113 win over the Spurs. Sacramento held San Antonio to 42% shooting from the field.

The Kings gave up 14 threes on 34% shooting from beyond the arc and sent the Spurs to the line 30 times, where they hit 21 free throws. Sacramento finished with 37 defensive rebounds, allowing 12 offensive boards, while also recording 7 steals and 6 blocks.