Eighteen teams are in action across the Association today headlined by a potential Western Conference playoff matchup the and Rockets. We're here to bring you the must-read notes from around the Association to help you make the best wagers. **video
Playing defense early on
Both the Spurs and Jazz rank toward the middle in first-half points per game, with San Antonio averaging 53.7 on the road, and Utah with 53.8. Defensively, both teams rank in the top 10 in opponent first-half points per game, and the Jazz have held opponents under 100 in two straight.
With these early starting games, play can be lackadaisical. Back the first half game total Under 108.
Surprisingly high scoring
Although Charlotte has won six of the last seven overall when playing the Hawks, it has struggled away from home posting a 5-18 record over its most recent 23.
The Hawks rank as the worst team in opponent points per game allowing an average of 118.2. Offensively the Hawks have been playing well, and they have averaged 118.7 points per game over their most recent three. Look for both teams to find success on the offensive end and back the game total Over 229.
Making it four straight
Chicago's Lauri Markkanen for the first time in his career has logged three games scoring 30 or more points. He has also posted a double-double in five of the most recent six games. With both the Hawks and Wizards playing on the tail end of back-to-backs, this could heavily favor Markkanen.
Look for similar numbers out of Markkanen today as he is facing off against a Wizards team allowing an average of 23.5 points on 51.8 percent shooting, and 12.6 rebounds per game to opposing power forwards. Back Over his points, rebounds, assists total today of 33.5.
High scoring, Christmas Day Rematch
The Rockets have played well at home posting a 19-8 record and have won 15 of the most recent 18 home games. Today, they take on a Thunder team who have won nine of their last 10 games, but historically have struggled on the road versus Houston posting a 1-10 record over their most recent 11 at Toyota Center.
The Rockets' Eric Gordon is in a favorable spot today versus a Thunder defense surrendering 24.2 points per game, and 3.4 made 3-point shots to opposing shooting guards. Back Over his points total today of 15.5.
Exploiting their defensive weakness
The Magic are 9-point underdogs as they travel to Milwaukee to take on a Bucks team who have posted a 23-4 record on their home court this season and have won nine of their last 10 games.
The Magic have shot the ball well over their last two games scoring 122 points in each contest and will need to be efficient offensively once again as they take on a Bucks team averaging 127.7 points per game over their most recent three.
Look for Orlando's Nikola Vucevic to be a factor versus a Bucks squad giving up an average of 25.5 points on 50.9 percent shooting and 13.1 points per game to opposing centers. Take Over his points, rebounds, assists total of 36.5.
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