What’s going on, everybody? It’s Eric Lindquist back again, and we’re entering the weekend still riding the NBA heater. The last few weeks have been outstanding on the prop and total front, and I’m not taking my foot off the gas. Here are the two best NBA bets today, including a killer Thunder-Rockets pick.
Best NBA Bets Today: Thunder-Rockets Pick and More
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Thunder vs. Rockets
This one nearly got the full-unit Lock stamp, and for good reason. When you look at the pace metrics and defensive personnel on both sides, this total is just way too high.
Let’s start with Houston. Even with Dillon Brooks suspended, the Rockets still roll out elite defenders in Amen Thompson and Tari Eason. Jabari Smith Jr. continues to be disruptive on the glass and as a help defender. And Fred VanVleet’s injury status is still in question, meaning fewer playmakers and more grind-it-out basketball from Houston.
Oklahoma City is back to full strength, minus backup center Jaylin Williams, and has been playing disciplined basketball on both ends. Its pace has dropped, and its is much more halfcourt-focused when Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is on the floor dominating possessions.
The recent trend for Thunder games has leaned under, and Houston is always going to slow down a game with its physicality. I have this projected way lower than 230.5 and jumped on the early line. It’s a half unit for now but with strong conviction.
Best Thunder-Rockets Pick Today: Thunder-Rockets Under 230.5 (LIKE/LOCK)
Mavericks vs. Clippers
This number hasn’t moved yet, but if Anthony Davis is ruled out — or even limited — it’s going to steam. The Clippers are fully healthy, have rested legs and are set up to handle Dallas’ size.
Ivica Zubac and Kawhi Leonard give the Clippers enough defensive versatility to contain the Mavericks’ inside-out game. And even if Davis plays, he’s coming off a questionable tag and is unlikely to be at full strength. If he sits, the Mavericks will be relying heavily on second-unit production, and that’s a tough ask against a disciplined Clippers defense.
From a numbers standpoint, I have this power rated closer to Clippers -8.5, so there’s real value here. We’ve been printing with unders and spreads all month. This is one I feel great about before the injury news hits.
Best Mavericks-Clippers Pick Today: Clippers -6.5 (LIKE)
