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The NBA calms down a bit on Thursday night, with just six games and no elite matchups. There are a few that should garner our interest, however, as the Hawks and Pacers go at it, while there is still hope for Anthony Davis to take the court against DeMarcus Cousins in a high-octane clash between the Pelicans and Kings.
The Brow is likely out, however, and that is likely to severely impact the way that game goes down. Be sure to stay on top of all the latest injury news outside of just Davis, as there are several big names that are banged up and could change the way you bet tonight. We’ll walk through every situation and see how it has us feeling for tonight’s NBA picks:
Hawks @ Pacers
Indiana got the upper hand in the only previous meeting this year, winning a close defensive battle at home. This one is in Indy, too, but the Pacers have struggled with three straight losses and just a 3-7 mark in their last 10 games. Atlanta is the better team these days, so look for that skid to continue as the Hawks even the season series.
Pick: Hawks 101, Pacers 97
Nuggets @ Wizards
A very high-paced matchup gets underway in D.C. tonight, as John Wall will likely be set to run circles around rookie Emmanuel Mudiay. Kenneth Faried and Danilo Gallinari could make this one interesting early, but with the Wiz expecting Brad Beal back, I like Washington at home.
Pick: Wizards 104, Nuggets 102
Knicks @ Raptors
New York won a shootout 111-109 the last time these two teams faced, but it may be tough to bank on that again with Carmelo Anthony questionable for this one. Toronto may also be without Kyle Lowry, though, so perhaps it could just be a duel between Kristaps Porzingis and DeMar DeRozan. That’s fun to think about, but Toronto is the better team, at home and riding a 9-game winning streak. Look for them to get #10 tonight.
Pick: Raptors 107, Knicks 104
Bucks @ Grizzlies
The Bucks visit Memphis to take on the Grizzlies for the first time this year, and it isn’t a great spot to be betting on them in. Memphis has turned things around defensively, while they’ve been a stout 17-7 on their home floor. Milwaukee has picked things up offensively and have gone on a nice 6-4 run, but they’re still not to be trusted on the road (7-20).
Pick: Grizz 102, Bucks 96
Kings @ Pelicans
If you’re looking for the highest scoring game of the night, you’ve found it. Anthony Davis is likely out but the Pellies still have plenty of offensive fire power to combat the visting Kings. Both defenses are trash with opponents scoring at least 105 points per game. Expect a high scoring game but if The Brow is out, the Kings should get the win.
Pick: Kings 107, Pelicans 105
Bulls @ Lakers
Not much needs to be said for this one, as the Lakers have been atrocious and simply do not defend. Chicago will randomly sputter out on the road, but this is the Lakers and they’re playing on national TV. Look for a big game out of Pau Gasol against his old team and a Bulls blowout win.
Pick: Bulls 105, Lakers 89
