New Orleans Pelicans @ Golden State Warriors: Warriors -11 – 10/11
The Pelicans are already in a flap having collected two losses on the bounce without Anthony Davis, and he’ll likely miss tonight’s unpleasantness as they face the force of nature that is the Golden State Warriors.
Maybe he’s lucky.
The Dubs put up the second most first-half points in league history in their last game, away in the Windy City, when they scored 44 in the first quarter and 48 in the second to lead the Bulls by only 42 points at the interval.
Klay Thompson posted a record-breaking three-point shooting performance, hitting 14-of-24 from outside the arc as the Bulls were brushed aside.
If Davis is confirmed out it’s hard to see New Orleans making a fight of this. -11 is a big handicap, but with the scoring form Golden State are finding, they can cover it.
Oct 19, 2018; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Jonas Jerebko (21) celebrates with guard Klay Thompson (11) after scoring the game-winning basket during the second half against the Utah Jazz at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Denver Nuggets @ Chicago Bulls: Over 10.5 Rebounds Nikola Jokic – 4/6
Jokic has been anything but a joke in October, shining in a Nuggets team that has put it up to some of the biggest names in the league – they’re responsible for the Warriors only loss so far.
And the giant Serbian has been central to their up-start play, leading the team in points, rebounds and assists as they bid to get back in the Western conference playoffs.
Chicago are one of the poorest rebounding teams in the league percentage-wise through the opening weeks. Jokic’s average per game is 10.3. With the Bulls not competing as hard for loose balls as others, he should be able to top the 10.5 line here at 4/6.
Oct 23, 2018; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons forward Blake Griffin (23) dribbles on Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) in the second half at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Detroit Pistons @ Brooklyn Nets: Pistons – 59/50
The Nets took a 19 point spanking in Madison Square Garden from the Knicks in their last game, so the fact they’re -2.5 favourites in this spot is a line to mull over.
Part of the reason is Detroit played last night at Boston, losing by three points in a hard fought game. Maybe they’re tired by that effort and worn by the travel, but they’re a much better team at the moment, so they appeal on the handicap if you want some cover here, but I’m throwing the moneyline in on this acca for a bit of extra pop.
Detroit have four wins in their last six road games, they’ve a legit superstar in Blake Griffin and have designs on a playoff return this season. Brooklyn have none of this. Back Detroit to win at 59/50.
October 22, 2018; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts after scoring a basket against the San Antonio Spurs during overtime at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Dallas Mavericks @ LA Lakers: Over 120.5 Home Team Total Points – 10/11
The Lakers are off to bumpy start with LABron, but Dallas are likely to be one of the league’s whipping boys this season, and the Lakers can put up some points at home tonight.
Their problem so far this year is they’re just giving up too many scores to opponents. They’re the third highest scorers in the league, but have the second leakiest defence.
Fortunately they’re up against the seventh worst in the same category. Only three teams allow their opponents more successful field goals than Dallas too. They’re a sieve, basically.
Back LeBron to have field day and the Lakers to go over 120.5 points.
*All odds correct at time of posting
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