This article is part of our NBA Picks series.
Alex Barutha
Nets -6.0 (-110) vs. NYK -- DraftKings (1:51 PM CT)
The Knicks are undoubtedly one of the biggest surprises in the NBA, and their defense is noteworthy, but this line still feels too close. I could see -6.0 if Kyrie Irving wasn't available, but having both him and James Harden playing makes me think this should easily go toward the Nets.
Jazz -5.0 (-112) @ DAL -- DraftKings (1:59 PM CT)
The Mavericks have been making improvements and have snuck up to a quality 27-21 record. However, both Kristaps Porzginis and Josh Richardson are questionable. Even if they were guaranteed to be playing, I'd still consider Jazz -5.0. They've been the best team in the NBA, and they have the personnel to overwhelm the Mavericks, especially if Porzingis and Richardson are out. Gobert could have a field day. Ultimately, it's probably safest to wait for the status of those two players before locking a bet in.
Nick Whalen
Spurs -9.5 (-110) vs. CLE -- DraftKings (3:13 PM CT)
We've officially entered the portion of the season when betting against the Cavaliers on a nightly basis becomes increasingly profitable. Cleveland played the Heat somewhat-respectably on Saturday but still lost by 14 points. Four of the Cavs' last five defeats have come by at least 14 points, and they'll once again be without both Larry Nance and Jarrett Allen tonight. Meanwhile, the Spurs have put up at least 120 points in four of their last five games, including a season-high 133 against the Pacers on Saturday. It's a big number, but I like the Spurs to take advantage of the Cavs' frontcourt injuries.
