Memphis Grizzlies at Houston Rockets
The Grizzlies (18-17) run into the red-hot Rockets (20-15) in a Western Conference matchup.
After a strong start to the season, Memphis have slumped badly, dropping six of their last eight games. J.B. Bickerstaff’s team are coming off a 112-103 home loss to the Celtics on Sunday (all times AEST).
The Griz remain second in the league in points allowed (102) and will look to shut down James Harden, something no team has done in December.
Harden has been on an absolute tear of late, scoring 30-plus points in 11-straight games and becoming the fourth player to score 500 points in a month.
The Beard has led the Chris Paul-less Rockets sensationally, who have won nine of their last 10, including four-straight, the equal best streak in the league.
Last time these teams met in Memphis earlier this month, Houston won 105-97.
Tip: Houston -3.5 @ $1.70.
Boston Celtics at San Antonio Spurs
The Celtics (21-14) travel to San Antonio (20-17) as two of the league’s perennial top dogs go head-to-head.
Boston have started to come into their own after a slow start to the season, winning three of their last four contests. Kyrie Irving continues his MVP calibre-season, and his health holds the key to the C’s post-season aspirations.
This team looks much better with Al Horford back in the fold, who missed seven-straight games with a knee injury.
San Antonio have also got it together of late, earning victories in nine of their last 12 games, including wins over the Lakers, 76ers and Nuggets.
You can never count out Greg Popovich’s team, who are 15-3 at home and coming off a massive 122-11 win against the Clippers in LA on Sunday.
Tip: San Antonio to win @ $1.92.
Dallas Mavericks at OKC Thunder
The Mavs (17-18) visit OKC (22-13) in a rematch from their clash in Dallas on Monday.
Rick Carlisle’s team took the honours after Dennis Smith Jr. converted a clutch layup and Russel Westbrook missed the potential game-winning three.
Paul George lit it up for the Thunder in this one, dropping a game-high 36 points, while Luka Doncic was equally impressive for his game-high 25 points.
But OKC at Chesapeake Energy Arena are a whole different beast, where they have only dropped four games this season.
Dallas have impressed as one of the most improved teams this season, but it is hard seeing them winning this one in the fortress of Oklahoma City.
Tip: OKC to win @ $1.29.
