What a drop the Houston Rockets have suffered early on in the 2015-16 NBA season. James Harden is shooting horribly from the floor, Dwight Howard is either not active or limited and the Rockets simply can’t buy a win. They ran into the brick wall that is the defending champion Warriors last week, but they should have been able to get past the likes of the Nuggets and Heat.

One would have thought. Instead, the Rockets look like a shell of their former self, as they’re trying to work Ty Lawson into their system and also deal with Howard’s shaky availability. It’s led to an ugly 0-3 start and on Monday night it could turn to an 0-4 start. That’s less than ideal, but Harden could need his best game of the young season to keep it from happening. Doing it against his former team – a red hot 3-0 Thunder squad – could make the task even tougher.

We actually put some faith in Harden and co. on Sunday and they ended up being our only mistake among our NBA picks (6-1 on Sunday, 31-14 on the year). Take a look to see if we do the same as we analyze all of Monday’s NBA contests and see who should escape the victor:

Cavaliers @ 76ers

Philly plays fast so it’s possible they could jump on the Cavs at home early, but we all know it’s highly unlikely. They have very few offensive threats and Jahlil Okafor isn’t about to dominate Timofe Mozgov, Tristan Thompson and Anderson Varejao down low. Truly, I don’t know why we’re still analyzing this game. Philly isn’t beating Cleveland.

Pick: Cavs 109, Sixers 96

Bucks @ Nets

These two teams don’t play defense and enjoyed two insane OT battles last year, so it’s quite possible we’re headed for an intense battle. The Bucks have more talent but they have displayed some truly awful defense (something they were good at a year ago) and they’re on the road. Brook Lopez could tee off in this one, so I mildly like the Nets at Barclays Center.

Pick: Nets 105, Bucks 102

Spurs @ Knicks

New York has been rather inconsistent so far this year, but one thing they’ve shown is they’re much deeper than last year and they also can put up points. I’m not sure they keep doing that against the mighty Spurs, though.

Pick: Spurs 108, Knicks 95

Thunder @ Rockets

This is probably the game of the night, as Houston tries to regroup at home against the worst possibly opponent to attempt to do that against. Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant are playing out of their minds and Houston as looked like total trash. Unless James Harden drops 50 on his former team, the Rockets are going 0-4.

Pick: Thunder 106, Rockets 104

Blazers @ Timberwolves

Minnesota is a surprise 2-0, but they’ve beaten two awful teams to get here. They get a boost at home, but Portland dropped two in a row against the Suns and should be looking to get back to .500. I just don’t think Minnesota can handle Damin Lillard and I think C.J. McCollum also busts loose for another big outing. More than all of that, I just can’t see the Timberwolves starting the year at 3-0.

Pick: Blazers 104, T’Wolves 99

Grizzlies @ Warriors

Memphis has looked a lot better over their past two games (both wins) but now they got to Oracle Arena to try to slow down Stephen Curry and the 3-0 defending champs. The Warriors never lose at home and they have the Grizz’s number, so I doubt Memphis gets it done.

Pick: Warriors 104, Grizz 98

Suns @ Clippers

Phoenix has picked things up with a 2-0 sweep over the Blazers recently, but that’s not overly impressive and now they have to go battle Blake Griffin on the road. The Clippers have looked fantastic en route to a 3-0 start and rarely lose at Staples Center, so I can’t bet against them tonight.

Pick: Clips 111, Suns 104

November is here and with it comes early NBA basketball on Sunday. Today is going to be huge for all NFL betting, too, but it’s fun to have some NBA action on the side. Even better is it gets going at 2:00 pm ET, so you can follow along with two fun sports for pretty much the entire day. In fact, with the NFL’s London game kicking off earlier this morning, you literally can be entertained by football and basketball from 9:30 am until midnight.

Sunday is officially awesome.

It’ll be even better if you can win some cash, right? Our NBA picks were rock solid again on Saturday night, as we went a solid 4-2 on the night (25-13 on the season). In our defense, the Knicks reverted back to their awesome ways from Wednesday’s opener. They’re impossible to figure out so far. Also, Portland fell at home to the Suns, who they faced (and lost to) in back-to-back nights. Sad, but true.

The story of Saturday and inevitably the whole weekend was Stephen Curry’s insane 53-point performance. Something tells me both James Harden and Russell Westbrook are about to beast out on Sunday. Keep that in mind as we go over tonight’s games:

Hawks @ Hornets

The first game of Sunday sounds off in just a couple of hours, but it shouldn’t be a difficult call. Kyle Korver should return to the lineup after resting his ankle the other day, while Atlanta is simply the better squad. Playing in Charlotte could bring trouble, but Charlotte’s two best players – Kemba Walker and Al Jefferson – could easily get stifled by Atlanta’s tough defense. I think it’s close just like the matchup we saw in Atlanta between these two on Friday, but I still like the Hawks.

Pick: Hawks 99, Hornets 93

Spurs @ Celtics

San Antonio lost a tough road opener to OKC and then bounced back with a big win. I like them to win again even though they’re on the road, as Boston’s bigs won’t be able to handle Tim Duncan and LaMarcus Aldridge and Kawhi Leonard has been a beast.

Pick: Spurs 97, Celtics 94

Bucks @ Raptors

Milwaukee looked pretty good in a loss to the Wizards the other day but their defenses has been non-existent. Toronto, meanwhile, has looked fluid on offense and plays this one at home. The Bucks could stage the upset, but I’m not seeing it tonight.

Pick: Raps 106, Bucks 102

Rockets @ Heat

Dwight Howard is out due to rest and a healthy Miami squad could be trouble at home. That being said, Houston is 0-2 and is going to figure it out eventually. That, and James Harden has been woefully off. I think he finds his shot in a win tonight to keep the Rockets from falling to 0-3.

Pick: Rockets 108, Heat 100

Nuggets @ Thunder

Russell Westbrook. That is all.

Pick: Thunder 109, Nuggets 103

Magic @ Bulls

Orlando is 0-2 but has been quite a formidable out so far this year. They lost to Washington by one and then took it to the Thunder for two overtimes. I love their talent and grit and fully expect them to make this a game, but they keep running into betters teams at the wrong moment. I don’t think they get their first win of the season on the road against the Bulls.

Pick: Bulls 111, Magic 106

Mavs @ Lakers

There will be no defense in this game, as Dallas has no true stoppers and the Lakers are just getting demolished on the defensive end this year. Chandler Parsons could make his season debut in this one and Wes Matthews should also be back (rest), while L.A. is healthy but just not very good. I think it’s closer than we’d expect and there is going to be a ton of offense, but I’d be relatively shocked if the Lakers handed Dallas their second loss of the season.

Pick: Mavs 117, Lakers 114

The New Orleans Pelicans have failed to live up to expectations in the early going of the 2015-16 NBA season. Few can really fault them, as Jrue Holiday is on a hard minutes cap, and the team is dealing with injuries to at least three key players – namely Tyreke Evans and Omer Asik.

It was bad going into the year, but it’s about to get even worse if the Pellies can’t top the Golden State Warriors at home on Saturday night. If they can’t, they’ll be in an 0-3 hole and suddenly won’t be looking like a team ready to take another big step after sneaking into the playoffs a year ago.

Anthony Davis playing quite small in the process is one big reason why, and this could be an opportunity to make a statement by carrying his team to a big, much-needed win in front of his home crowd. The trouble is, Golden State tore them down in the season opener and the end result is fairly unlikely to be different tonight. That being said, the Pellies will try to stave off another loss. Let’s take a closer look at that game and the others slated for Saturday’s NBA schedule:

Season NBA Picks record: 21-11 (9-3 on Friday)

Jazz @ Pacers

Indiana is 0-2 and plays host to a very strong defensive team tonight, which is weird because they used to rely on defense at a high level. That’s no longer the case, as Indy is a more finesse team with worse defense and little power in the paint. Utah has two terrific bigs and enough wing play to give the Pacers fits. Utah could have a little trouble on the road if the Pacers get out and run, but I think Utah’s defense should prevail and keep the Pacers winless for at least one more game.

Pick: Jazz 89, Paces 87

Knicks @ Wizards

The Knicks are better than they were a year ago but their huge season opening win reminds me a lot of last year, when they beat the Cavs and then did nothing the rest of the season. I think if they’re really going anywhere they need to dump Jose Calderon and hand the keys of the offense to rookie blur, Jerian Grant. That wouldn’t save them tonight, anyways, of course, as they’re on the road against the blurriest of them all – John Wall. I like the Wizards all day in this one as D.C. improves to 3-0.

Pick: Wiz 104, Knicks 99

Warriors @ Pelicans

New Orleans has looked pretty weak through their first two games and it isn’t going to be of any help that two of their first three contests come against the defending champion Warriors. New Orleans may not be able to use the “we’re banged up” excuse in this one, as Klay Thompson isn’t 100% now and Andrew Bogut is out for the second game in a row. The Warriors are just the better team and Stephen Curry is quickly on his way to another MVP tour.

Pick: Warriors 107, Pelicans 101

Nets @ Grizzlies

Brooklyn is lacking talent in a big way, as their only hope if for center Brook Lopez to go nuts or Joe Johnson to dominate the mid-range game. With Marc Gasol down low and Tony Allen on the outside, Memphis isn’t about to allow either from a defensive perspective. The Grizzlies looked awful in a blowout loss to Cleveland a few days ago, but they looked far better in a win on Thursday and should look even better in a win at home tonight.

Pick: Grizz 105, Nets 92

Suns @ Blazers

The Suns are tough to gauge, as they didn’t show up to play against Dallas on Wednesday, and then they turn around and smoke the Blazers last night. Portland is tough to figure out, too, but now this series goes back to Portland for a back-to-back set. These teams are going to be awfully tired, so it’s tough not to side with the home team in this one.

Pick: Blazers 107, Suns 104

Kings @ Clippers

Sacramento and Lob City face off for the second time in the first week of NBA action, and if it’s anything like Wednesday’s opener, the Kings are in serious trouble. Sac-town is probably going to be a little worn down after playing last night and dropping 132 points on the Lakers, while the Clips rarely play poorly at Staples Center. Sacramento is really going to have their work cut out for them on a back-to-back, but they should at least make it interesting.

Pick: Clips 112, Kings 108

Two days after the NBA got hit hard by a mammoth 14-game slate, the schedule comes back nearly just as big with another 12 games to send the regular week out in style on Friday night. Friday’s games are highlighted by two huge duels, with the Cavs and Heat squaring off and the Warriors heading to Houston to take on the Rockets.

And there are 10 other NBA games.

It’s going to be a wild ride, but it should be a fun one, as well. Join us as we filter through the games and make our Friday night NBA picks. We’re coming off of a strong Thursday (3-0) and march into the fray with a 12-8 straight up mark on the year:

Heat @ Cavs

Miami is at full strength this year and started off 1-0 so they could actually be a problem for the Cavs. We get a close look tonight if thay’s hyperbole or reality, while Cleveland is still without Kyrie Irving and LeBron James doesn’t look quite right. The home team has won each of the last four games, though, so we’ll side with the Cavs.

Pick: Cavs 102, Heat 99

Thunder @ Magic

OKC took down the Spurs in their opener on Wednesday and look like legit title contenders already. They really just need to stay healthy and keep chuggin’ along. Orlando will be a casualty tonight.

Pick: Thunder 106, Magic 101

Jazz @ 76ers

Utah couldn’t win their opener but now they get a Philly squad that has one legit offensive threat and can’t really defend. Jahlil Okafor is a rookie, too, and could get swallowed up by defensive stopper Rudy Gobert. It’s the Jazz, all the way.

Pick: Jazz 104, Sixers 90

Raptors @ Celtics

These two teams could be fighting for a division title later in the year and how Boston fares tonight could give us a sneak peek at what to expect. The Celtics lack star power, but they’re a pretty decent bunch and are at home. That being said, Toronto looked really good in a win on Wednesday and should have the edge here, even on the road.

Pick: Raptors 109, Celtics 106

Bulls @ Pistons

Chicago and Detroit are both 2-0, which is pretty crazy for a lot of reasons. The Bulls seem like the more stable presence though, so we’ll take them to down the Pistons in Detroit.

Pick: Bulls 104, Pistons 102

Hornets @ Hawks

Charlotte has some new pieces and could be interesting later in the year, but it’s really hard to get behind them in Atlanta. The Hawks will be without Kyle Korver tonight (ankle) and are on a back-to-back, but they’re really tough at home. That trend continues tonight against an inferior Hornets squad.

Pick: Hawks 99, Hornets 93

Wizards @ Bucks

Milwaukee looked ghastly in their opener so it’s going to be very tough to get excited about them tonight. They’re at home and generally play sound defense, but the Wiz own this series and have won seven of the last nine games. John Wall is a bad matchup for Michael Carter-Williams and I’m not sure Greg Monroe dominates Marcin Gortat and Washington’s collection of bigs.

Pick: Wiz 104, Bucks 98

Nets @ Spurs

If this was at Barclays Center…no, the Spurs would still win. Jarrett Jack could be back tonight and that would give Brooklyn a nice lift at the point, but the Spurs are so much better in so many ways. I think LaMarcus Aldridge gets things going in his second game with the Spurs, too.

Pick: Spurs 108, Nets 101

Timberwolves @ Nuggets

This could be the fastest game of the night, as both Minnesota and Denver like to push the ball and can really stroke it. Rookie point guard Emmanuel Mudiay was awesome in Wednesday and the Nuggets shocked the Rockets (and everyone) with a win. They’re at home and look pretty darn good, so we’ll give them a mild edge. Either way, craziness will ensue tonight, as one of these teams will exit at 2-0. Seriously.

Pick: Nuggets 107, T’Wolves 104

Warriors @ Rockets

Revenge will be on the brain for the Rockets tonight and they also get Dwight Howard back after a one-game suspension. But that’s not enough to take down the Warriors, who have simply dominated Houston (9-1 in last 10 meetings, including playoffs). Even on the road, it’s hard to go against the defending champs.

Pick: Warriors 106, Rockets 102

Lakers @ Kings

Another high-scoring game with no defense here, as the Lakers proved on Wednesday they can run and gun. They can’t play defense, though, so it’s tough to see them getting out of a matchup with DeMarcus Cousins alive. Roy Hibbert could play elite defense and keep him under wraps, but I doubt it.

Pick: Kings 111, Lakers 108

Blazers @ Suns

And another one. This actually could be the most explosive game of the night, as Portland showed the world they’re going to chuck it at will, while the Suns are at home and at least have the potential to put up points at a rapid rate. Phoenix didn’t even show up on Wednesday, though, and they’ve had a problem with mailing games in before. I’m not trusting them much, while Portland is one of those teams that probably shouldn’t be good (i.e., Pistons and Nuggets) but simply is.

Pick: Blazers 104, Suns 102

Wednesday night was the first real run with our 2015 NBA picks, as the league spewed out a ridiculous 14 games onto the schedule. It was fun as heck and we got some really nice individual performances and some crazy games. The Magic kept things tight with the Wiz, C.J. McCollum has 22 points in the first quarter and the Cavaliers destroyed the Grizzlies with LeBron James doing very little of the scoring.

On the other side, we also got some weird upsets. New York crushed the Bucks in Milwaukee, Minnesota took down the Lakers and – the weirdest of them all – the Rockets got dismantled by the Nuggets at home.

It was a crazy, fully loaded NBA Wednesday night, and we thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. In the end, we made out OK with a decent 8-6 record, straight up (9-8 on the year). Let’s move on to Thursday’s games:

(-2.5) Memphis Grizzlies @ Indiana Pacers

Both Indy and Memphis started off with 0-1 starts and it’s easy to see Memphis is supposed to be the better team. They’re certainly the better defensive team, while it’s hard to think the Pacers have anyone who can handle either Marc Gasol or Zach Randolph down low. Indiana could fight hard at home, but they’re ultimately dropping to 0-2. My ATS picks were so awful last night I don’t even want to do ATS NBA picks anymore. That being said, I do like Memphis to cover.

Pick: Grizz 101, Pacers 94

(-4) Atlanta Hawks @ New York Knicks

The Knicks blew out the Bucks in Milwaukee to get to 1-0 on the year and now they’re at home for a back-to-back. Atlanta is the only team on this short slate that didn’t play in a game last night, so they should be fresh. They also got embarrassed at home by the Pistons on Tuesday, so I expect to see them come out and execute better to avoid an 0-2 start. Plus, the Knicks seemed to just have everything going their way against a depleted Bucks team last night. Even at home, I doubt it’s all roses tonight. The spread is a gamble just because the Knicks are at home and looked pretty decent last night, but Atlanta should come out angry and cover.

Pick: Hawks 106, Knicks 101

Dallas Mavericks @ Los Angeles Clippers (-10.5)

Easily the best game of the night, this one features two 1-0 teams that can play a lot of offense. L.A. is specifically a threat on their home floor, so Dallas really has their work cut out for them if they want to even stay in this one. We know they’ll want to win thanks to Clippers center DeAndre Jordan spurning them in the summer, but hey, you can’t always get what you want. Dirk Nowitzki and Wes Matthews on back-to-back contests may be bad for Dallas, while Deron Williams is banged up now and Chandler Parsons remains out. I definitely like the Clips to win all the way around, but this is a hefty line against a Mavs team that can still score the ball and will compete. Dallas should be able to keep this within 10.

Pick: Clips 111, Mavs 104

Holy unpredictable NBA season, Batman.

Seriously, day one of the 2015-16 NBA season was absurd in a lot of different ways. It was only three games, yet only one game managed to live up to the expectations of Vegas. We got two of them correct against the spread, as we picked the Cavs to beat the Bulls and Golden State to wreck the Pellies at home. Cleveland at least beat the spread (lost by two), but the Hawks laid an egg at home – something they never do – against a supposedly inferior Pistons squad.

And that was just a three-game slate. On Wednesday the season really starts with a ridiculous 14 NBA games to pick. It’s going to be a beating, but it’s also going to be a ton of fun. Best of all, if we can hit a good amount of these right, we’re going to make bank. And it’s only the middle of the week! As always, check out how we’ve done to date and then join us as we break down each matchup:

ATS: 2-1 Straight Up: 1-2

(-3.5) Wizards @ Magic

I think Orlando improves this year with the defensive-minded Scott Skiles running the show. They have a ton of young talent and for the first time in years they have a competent mind to guide them. They still aren’t there defensively, though, and Washington has to be one of the more underrated teams in the entire league. John Wall should run circles around Orlando’s point guards, while I doubt Nikola Vucevic is going to keep Marcin Gortat or the Wiz’s other bigs in check.

Pick: Wiz 104, Magic 100

Jazz @ Pistons (-2)

Detroit is riding high off a huge win in Atlanta last night, but they’re on a back-to-back and even they have to be somewhat surprised they’re 1-0 right now. Utah was a very strong defensive team the last we saw of them, and if that trend continues I like them to get a good road win to start the year.

Pick: Jazz 90, Pistons 89

(-4.5) Bulls @ Nets

Chicago didn’t look amazing last night but they beat the Cavs and that counts for something. Tonight they go to Barclays where the Nets await, but I’m not overly concerned about this back-to-back. Brook Lopez tends to struggle against guys quality paint defenders and that could mean a rough day at the office vs. Pau Gasol and Joakim Noah. The Nets also just don’t appear to be that good across the board, so I like the Bulls to get off to a nice 2-0 start.

Pick: Bulls 104, Nets 96

Knicks @ Bucks (-4)

Normally I’d absolutely take the Bucks here, but the Knicks are definitely better than they were last year and Milwaukee will begin the season at less than full strength. They have two guys out tonight and while they’re the better team, I think Carmelo Anthony has a huge game (he always dominates the Bucks) and get the Knicks off to an unlikely 1-0 start.

Pick: Knicks 90, Bucks 87

(-1) Mavs @ Suns

This is basically a pick’em, as no one knows what to expect out of either of these squads. All we know is the Mavs don’t have much down low and will also be without Chandler Parsons. Wes Matthews could also be limited and who knows what Dirk Nowitzki has left. Phoenix got tougher by adding Tyson Chandler and they certainly look like the more talented team at first glance. I’ll take the Suns at home simply because they seem more athletic and Chandler should play well against his former team.

Pick: Suns 109, Mavs 106

76ers @ Celtics (-9)

This is quite a line for a Celtics team that to me is just OK. Oh, wait, they’re facing the Sixers. Okay, that makes sense. Philly added some talent this summer but they’re still quite young and inexperienced. They’ll remain one of the worst teams in the league and won’t have the likes of Kendall Marshall, Tony Wroten or Nik Stauskas in this one. That being said, Philly can be pesky and I don’t like Boston to run away with this one. I’ll take Philly to beat the spread but Boston to win, straight up.

Pick: Celtics 101, 76ers 98

Hornets @ Heat (-7.5)

This should be a tight game between two solid Eastern Conference teams. Charlotte is without top defender Michael Kidd-Gilchrist for the year but they otherwise improved with additions like Frank Kaminsky, Jeremy Lin and Nicolas Batum. Their offense should have better flow, and while they lost tonight, they should keep it close with a healthy Kemba Walker and Al Jefferson having their way.

Pick: Heat 94, Hornets 92

Pacers @ Raptors (-6)

This is another game where I think the teams are a little more even than Vegas seems to feel. Toronto has the clear edge at center, but everything else is open season with George Hill, Monta Ellis and Paul George giving the Pacers quite a trio of offensive talent. I think Indy keeps it close, but I like Toronto to win at home.

Pick: Raptors 103, Pacers 101

Nuggets @ Rockets (-9.5)

Dwight Howard is one for game one due to suspension and Donatas Motiejunas remains banged up, but there’s little reason not to love Houston at home tonight. Denver is tossing out a rookie point guard and Ty Lawson faces his former team. Lawson could have a big game, while the Nuggets won’t have an answer for James Harden all night.

Pick: Rockets 114, Nuggets 104

Spurs @ Thunder (-4.5)

This is probably the biggest game of the night, as two Western Conference giants face off in OKC. Will a Thunder squad that is actually healthy dominate on their home floor, or will LaMarcus Aldridge and David West pay off early for the new-look Spurs? San Antonio has been prone to slow starts recently, so I tend to lean in OKC’s direction. That being said, I can’t see this not being a close game until the end, so I like the Spurs to beat the spread.

Pick: Thunder 101, Spurs 99

Cavaliers @ Grizzlies (-1.5)

This is a tough game for Cleveland, as they fell to Chicago last night and have to turn right back around to battle an arguably even tougher team in the Grizzlies. This one is also on the road and Memphis rarely loses on their home floor. Marc Gasol has fared well against the Cavs and I don’t know how effective Cleveland will be at stopping either Zach Randolph or Mike Conley. They key will be the depth on both sides, as Memphis’ second unit tends to struggle to produce consistent offense. With Tony Allen hounding LeBron and Kyrie Irving out, I’m taking the Grizz in what amounts to a pick’em.

Pick: Grizz 96, Cavs 94

Pelicans @ Blazers (pick’em)

I think this one is a virtual pick’em just because no one has any idea what to make of the Blazers. They still have a stud in Damian Lillard and they do have plenty of young talent, but they could be one of the worst teams in the league when it’s all said and done. Even so, the Pellies didn’t look great last night and they are ragged with several bodies out. I can’t go against The Brow twice, though, so I’ll take the Pellies with Anthony Davis putting up massive numbers in a big road win.

Pick: Pelicans 109, Blazers 106

(-4.5) Clippers @ Kings

This could be a really fun game, as there is plenty of star talent and the Kings will want to prove that they’re a playoff contender for this season. It’s tough to doubt DeMarcus Cousins in Sac-town, while Rudy Gay is also going to be a problem for the Clips. L.A. gets to unleash it’s new-found depth, though, so this is more than just star play. Paul Pierce, Lance Stephenson and Josh Smith could all make an impact in a high-scoring affair. I can see a Kings upset, though, so I’ll take Sacramento to beat the spread, with the Clips winning straight up.

Pick: Clips 104, Kings 101

Timberwolves @ Lakers (-5.5)

While not a big game for this slate, this could easily be one of the more entertaining contests with very little defenses and lot’s of scoring. The Black Mamba should be active and it’s hard to envision him and most of the Lakers not having success against a very young Minnesota squad. The Lakers probably aren’t a playoff team, but they added some solid veteran talent in Roy Hibbert, Lou Williams and Brandon Bass, so they have a different edge this year than they did a year ago. If Kobe can be Kobe, I like the Lakers at home. Not at -5.5, though. This will be a shootout with Minny hanging close.

Pick: Lakers 107, Wolves 104

Real, live NBA action is finally back, as three games hit the hardwood on Tuesday night to get the 2015-16 NBA season started. The feeling in the air is so much different than preseason action, and while we enjoyed those games, it’s great to get the real thing back.

The Warriors and Cavs, the two team from last year’s NBA Finals, will both be looking to get the year started off right with wins, but they won’t be against each other. LeBron James leads his Cavs into the United Center to take on the Bulls, while Stephen Curry goes for a repeat run with his Warriors against Anthony Davis and the Pelicans at Oracle Arena. The third game of the night goes off at the same time as Cavs/Bulls (8 pm ET) and will showcase the Pistons and Hawks in Atlanta.

It should be a very interesting night and regardless of what happens, these three games are merely prepping us for a jam-packed Wednesday, which has a boat load of sweet matchups. We fared pretty well with our NBA picks a year ago and aim to assist you with your NBA betting once again this season. Let’s get to it:

Cavaliers @ Bulls (-3)

If you want a skip-ahead approach, this is the only game where I at all like the road team. Both teams are extremely banged up, but Cleveland has LeBron James and Kevin Love, while they also have a good amount of depth. They’ll be without Kyrie Irving and Iman Shumpert, but Mo Williams is a really nice backup to lean on and J.R. Smith won’t mind chucking three’s in lieu of Shump. The other key is Cleveland’s size and depth down low, as they have Timofey Mozgov, Tristan Thompson and Anderson Varejao to rotate against Pau Gasol and Joakim Noah.

This is an easy pick to me, as the Cavs got off to a slow start last year and can’t be interested in doing so again. They’ve also had Chicago’s number over the past year, while James routinely does as he pleases in this matchup. Derrick Rose could also be rusty and/or limited, too, which doesn’t help Chicago’s cause. Mike Dunleavy is also out, which hurts the Bulls on the outside and possibly defensively. I expect a tight game that probably goes down to the wire, but I like Cleveland to take this. That make them the pick straight up and obviously I have them beating the spread.

Pick: Cavs 97, Bulls 95

Pistons @ Hawks (-6.5)

This is an interesting game, as the Pistons are going to be better than they were a year ago, now that Reggie Jackson firmly has the starting point guard job and is more comfortable. Detroit also has built a roster of shooters around big man Andre Drummond, almost copying the successful Magic squads Stan Van Gundy pieced together a few years back. Having it all come together in Atlanta could prove difficult tonight, of course, as the Hawks were a staggering 35-6 home record a year ago. This also a series Atlanta has had little trouble with, as they went 3-1 against the Hawks during the 2014-15 season and have gone 2-2 or better in this matchup since 2007.

The Hawks did lose Demarre Carroll so their offensive flow and overall defense takes a minor hit, but they otherwise are the same team that is used to handling the Pistons. Detroit, meanwhile, got sleeker but lost big man Greg Monroe in the process. With just one game last year having either team top 100 points, we could see a slower tempo game. If so, that favors the Hawks, who are methodical on offense and gritty on defense. Both games in Atlanta were relatively easy wins for the Hawks, so being on their home floor, they have the distinct advantage. I’ll give them the straight up win and I narrowly expect them to cover, as well.

Pick: Hawks 101, Pistons 94

Pelicans @ Warriors (-10)

This may have been the best game of the night if the Pelicans were close to full strength. Instead, Jrue Holiday is starting the season on what figures to be a 15-minute cap, while Tyreke Evans, Norris Cole and Omer Asik are all sidelined with their own injuries. That puts a ton of pressure on Anthony Davis in the first game of the year, and add that it’s on the road against the defending champs, and it’s really tough to have much faith in New Orleans keeping this close.

While it looks bleak, Brow, Ryan Anderson and Eric Gordon are all still here and can all fill it up offensively. Doing so at Oracle Arena against one of the best defenses in the league is asking a lot, while the Pellies must bring their A games defensively, as well. That’s just asking too much out of a depleted unit – especially considering Golden State would have a line like this even with the Pelicans at full strength.

In eight contests last year, the Warriors took the Pellies down seven times (7-1) and put up 100+ points in seven of those games. It wouldn’t be totally crazy to see Davis beast out and make this a fun game to cap the first night of the regular season. But the odds are heavily against it. I’m taking the Warriors straight up all day and I’ll take them to cover with mild hesistance.

Pick: Warriors 112, Pelicans 97

The 2015-16 NBA season is almost here, as we get the real thing via a sweet three-game slate this coming Tuesday. Three days of nothingness await us before that happens, unfortunately. That’s why you need to get your NBA betting fix tonight, when the last night of NBA preseason action goes down.

It’s a relatively heavy slate, too, with 16 NBA squads squaring off. Keep in mind many teams could limit or rest key players, but if you track the news and research the lineups, you just might come away with some fat cash as you gear up for the weekend. Let’s cap our NBA preseason run in style by winning some money in NBA betting tonight:

Grizzlies @ Magic

Memphis could sit some guys tonight but they overcame a truly awful start in their last game to top the Hawks and also haven’t lost all preseason long. Orlando has a couple guys banged up and despite being at home, we know they’re the inferior team, anyways.

Pick: Grizz 101, Magic 92

76ers @ Celtics

Philadelphia has a ton of young talent, but so far this preseason it hasn’t translated to much success. Their biggest problem is they don’t have an answer at the point yet and still have a very inconsistent offense that is going to be overly reliant on rookie big man Jahlil Okafor. All of that is music to Boston’s ears, who are on a back to back but are at home and are the better, more balanced squad.

Pick: Celtics 104, Sixers 97

Hawks @ Pistons

With these two battling it out in their 2015-16 regular season opener in just a few days, we can expect many bodies to be rested and few tricks to be shown off. We already know the likes of Reggie Jackson, Ersan Ilyasova, Paul Millsap, Al Horford and Kyle Korver will sit, so this game loses some luster. Atlanta is weaker at the moment, though, so tonight’s edge rests with Detroit.

Pick: Pistons 105, Hawks 101

Wizards @ Raptors

Reports haven’t surfaced yet as to how these two teams will set up tonight, but there’s a decent chance some of the top names are out or limited with the regular season so close now. Washington will for sure be holding Nene Hilario out and could be even more under-manned on the road. We’ll give the slight edge to Toronto at home.

Pick: Raptors 107, Wiz 104

Heat @ Pelicans

Anthony Davis’ status will be quite key for this duel, where the Miami veterans will try to get into a groove before the regular season. Doing so on the road is never easy, but Brow could be limited or even sit and the Pellies have major issues at point guard right now and overall aren’t healthy at all. Luol Deng has already been declared out, but that’s not a big enough hit to go against Miami in this one.

Pick: Heat 103, Pelicans 95

Mavericks @ Bulls

Deron Williams, Wes Matthews and Derrick Rose will all suit up for their respective teams, making this quite possibly the top game to watch on the night. Chicago could end up deciding to rest some guys, while Rose is already going to be limited to a handful of seven-minute runs – if that. Dallas is probably going to be a little less cohesive and they’re on the road, so we’ll give the Bulls the mild edge.

Pick: Bulls 108, Mavs 104

Bucks @ Timberwolves

The Bucks and Wolves face off for the second time this week, as Milwaukee took care of Minnesota fairly easily on Tuesday. The Timberwolves should have most of their young weapons at their disposal in this one, while the Bucks will show them a different starting five (Rashad Vaugh and Chris Copeland will start). Vaughn is playing in front of family and friends tonight, so there’s a good chance he plays out of his mind and helps Milwaukee to another win.

Pick: Bucks 102, T’Wolves 92

Rockets @ Spurs

Houston and San Antonio cap the 2015-16 NBA preseason in style, but it’s quite unclear which big names will end up hitting the hardwood. The Spurs haven’t looked like themselves thus far in preseason play, so it wouldn’t be such a bad idea to play LaMarcus Aldridge with the normal starters to help get them flowing well together. Dwight Howard remains out, but Terrence Jones returns to the lineup to help the Rockets. The Spurs figure to have quite the size and defensive advantage at home, so this could be the night they piece it all together right before the season gets started.

Pick: Spurs 104, Rockets 99

The last few months have been very interesting for the Cleveland Cavaliers and power forward Tristan Thompson. The two sides have had on and off again conversations regarding a long-term deal, and Thompson’s reluctance to budge in negotiations have dominated NBA headlines. The saga has finally come to an end.

#Cavs, Tristan Thompson agree to 5-year, $82 million deal, league sources tell @clevelanddotcom.

— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) October 21, 2015

Per reports, the Cavs and Thompson have agreed to terms on a massive five-year, $82 million deal. The new deal ends months of speculation that Thompson may never sign a long-term deal, as well as debate over what his contract would look like.

Ultimately, Thompson waited as long as he could and got the deal he wanted. It was understandably deserved after an outstanding showing in the playoffs a year ago, where Thompson stepped up in the wake of an injury to Kevin Love. Thompson started numerous crucial games at the power forward spot and helped at both power forward and center all season. Thompson took a bit of a backseat initially when Cleveland acquired Love in a trade with the Minnesota Timberwolves, but continued to provide a spark off the bench as a defender and offensive rebounder.

While a solid signing in terms of depth, it’s worth wondering if Thompson was worth the money he got. Once a key starter that was regarded as a building block for the franchise, Thompson is not even a starter with Love in town and doesn’t offer much in terms of offense. In other words, Cleveland paid out a big contract to keep a hustle guy who cleans the glass and defends.

That can be looked at from two ways, but there is a clear positive in having a young, physical post presence – especially since Love is not as physical in the paint and isn’t near the defender Thompson has proven to be. More importantly, center Anderson Varejao can’t really be counted on for major minutes after missing much of last season due to an Achilles injury. Add that to the piles of ailments Varejao has dealt with during his career, and Thompson’s presence even as a key depth piece off the bench appears to be quite valuable.

The Cavs may have paid a little more than they wanted – or a lot more – but letting Thompson go wasn’t really an option. Not only did they need Thompson for depth behind Love and starting center Timofey Mozgov, but they also needed his tenacity and toughness. Also, LeBron James runs the team in a lot of ways, and he was adamant about Thompson sticking around and getting paid for his contributions.

In the end, it looks like all parties win in this one and Thompson can rejoin Cleveland’s bid to win a title during the 2015-16 NBA season. Considering they almost did it last year despite not being remotely close to full strength, the odds of that happening are fairly good.

Betting on NBA preseason games on Saturday night? There is a ton to consider, as numerous players will be out due to rest or injury. You’ll also want to factor in the home/road situations, how teams have been playing and who is on back-to-backs. Let’s break down the key points for each game tonight and see if we can’t come away with some winners:

Kings @ Pelicans

The Kings and Pelicans figure to be the main draw on Saturday night, as two superstars face off with Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins going at it. The Kings look to have a big advantage, of course, as New Orleans has been ravaged by injuries down low and at the point. Newly added point guard Nate Robinson could end up getting some run, but that doesn’t change the arrow pointing in Sac-town’s direction.

Pick: Kings 106, Pellies 101

Knicks @ Hornets

New York just played last night, so there’s a good chance Carmelo Anthony and some of their bigger names will take a break on the road in Charlotte tonight. We can probably expect rookie sensations Kristaps Porzingis to hit the floor, though, as he was held out last night with the hope of getting him back in action tonight.

#Knicks notes entering tonight’s game: Afflalo expected to play (could start), Porzingis out tonight (hoping to play vs. CHAR on SAT).

— Jonah Ballow (@jonahballow) October 16, 2015

Charlotte should still hold the upper hand overall, as Al Jefferson and Kemba Walker are both healthy and Jeremy Lin and Frank Kaminsky have impressed as solid role players.

Pick: Hornets 90, Knicks 87

Heat @ Rockets

Houston could be extremely short-handed tonight, as James Harden is dealing with a knee contusion and the likes of Dwight Howard, Corey Brewer and Clint Capela have already been ruled out.

Dwight Howard out tonight for Rockets against Heat. Also no Brewer or Capela.

— Ira Winderman (@IraHeatBeat) October 17, 2015

Houston is at home and could still get some quality players on the floor, but Miami will be looking stronger and deeper in this one.

Pick: Heat 96, Rockets 94

Wizards @ Bucks

Washington just played last night and should be a little tired, while they could also sit some big names. Otto Porter got a little banged up and could be out or limited, either way. Milwaukee is at home and should be fresh, so they have a good chance at getting the win. Rookie guard Rashad Vaughn has looked fantastic offensively, and he’ll look to keep building positive momentum in this one.

Pick: Bucks 101, Wiz 97

Warriors @ Lakers

Golden State figures to be a little short-handed on the road tonight, as star shooting guard Klay Thompson is away in the bahamas at a funeral. L.A. should be without Kobe Bryant, too, though, while the Lakers haven’t found a way to win yet this preseason. It’s tough to imagine they get their first win over the defending champs, even in preseason play.

Pick: Warriors 107, Lakers 102