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We’ve gotten bombarded by huge NBA slates the past few days, but things calm down a bit on Sunday, when just six NBA games hit the hardwood. It’s still enough to get the NBA betting juices flowing, though, so let’s dive into each matchup and see who the likely winners are:
Pistons @ Cavaliers
Detroit has been a total mess and LeBron James “deactivated chill mode” on Friday night. Greg Monroe being inserted back into the starting lineup helps the Pistons, but he won’t be enough to upend the Cavs in Cleveland.
Pick: Cavs 106, Pistons 99
Rockets @ Spurs
San Antonio has really stumbled lately, losing eight of their last 11. That’s not like them, so eventually you’d think they’d piece things back together. It’s just tough to buy that happening tonight against a good Rockets team.
Pick: Rockets 105, Spurs 102
Thunder @ Mavericks
OKC has been magical now that they’re mostly at full strength, but if Kevin Durant is still out they’re going to have a tough time topping a good Dallas team on the road.
Pick: Mavs 107, Thunder 102
Knicks @ Blazers
Carmelo Anthony is drowning with this sorry Knicks team, and Ridge or no Ridge, the Blazers are far and away the better team.
Pick: Blazers 109, Knicks 97
Raptors @ Nuggets
Denver can run with just about anyone, but they’ve slipped of late and there aren’t many teams that are better than the Raptors. Toronto plays balanced ball and is a strong 8-4 on the road, so they’re the safer bet.
Pick: Raptors 106, Nuggets 103
Suns @ Lakers
Kobe Bryant could continue sitting out, while the Lakers are probably in trouble against the Suns, either way. Phoenix is at full strength and big man Alex Len is starting to turn some heads. Phoenix could run the Lakers out of the gym.
Pick: Suns 105, Lakers 101
