After a losing day I've been working super hard researching games and studying trends. Some of these spreads seem a little crazy, like the Wizards being almost even with the Bulls? They have beat their spread like 8 games in a row, so I think the bookies may be over compensating for this one. However betting against the Wizards seems like a bad move; so I'm just leaving this game alone. Even though I'm not touching this game I'm betting on more games than I have any day this week. I love some of these spreads!
76ers (Home) +3.5 - Knicks (Away) -3.5
My Pick: Knicks (Away) -3.5
The Knicks split their last 12 games without Felton at 6-6. This PG was crucial to their success early in the season. With Felton - NY was shooting 39.3% from the 3 point line and 35.7% without him. Kidd has also been cleared to play, so Felton shouldn't have to play any minutes he isn't ready for. This kid is young so coming back from an injury should be easy enough. The Knicks have blown out Philly twice this season already and I expect another great performance by New York here tonight.
Spurs (Home) -9.5 - Phoenix (Away) +9.5
My Pick: Phoenix +9.5
This team has been playing hard, coming off of two strong wins under their new coach. The aging Spurs have had a very busy schedule and should be too tired to beat this Suns team by more than a few points. It is unclear whether their coach or Tim Duncan will return, but Tony Parker will be most likely playing. Phoenix could easily win this game and a small bet on the moneyline could be profitable. I'm sticking to the spread however, because I really don't see the Spurs winning by 10+ coming off of their heavy schedule.
Clippers (Home) -1 - Trailblazers +1
My Pick: Trailblazers +1
The Clippers have dropped 3 straight without Chris Paul. On top of that Blake Griffen has a hurt ankle; so he won't be 100% for this game. Portland had dropped 7 straight until their road win at Indiana Wednesday. That win was exactly what this young team needed to regain some confidence and start playing like they have the whole season. I highly doubt this injured LA team will be able to produce enough offense to keep up with the Trailblazers; especially on the road.
Bobcats (Home) -2.5 - Timberwolves (Away) +2.5
My Pick: Bobcats -2.5
I can't think of a team that wants a home win more than the Bobcats right now. Facing off against a Timberwolves team that barely has enough healthy players to field a team should be their chance. After getting blown out by the Wizards just yesterday the Timberwolves will have to limp all the way to Charlotte to be beaten down again.