New York Knicks (25-36) at Philadelphia 76ers (37-23)
After 5 straight defeats and a 1-9 record in their last 10 games, the Knicks will need to improve quickly. Especially after a recent 125-109 against this 76ers team. Overall, their defence continues to struggle as they've allowed 118 points per game in their last 5 games. With an offence that's struggling to score over 100 points, it's not a good time for New York fans at the moment.
The James Harden era has started in excellent fashion for the 76ers after back to back 10+ wins over the Knicks and Timberwolves. Overall, they've scored 120+ points in 3 straight games and should be confident of continuing the streak considering the Knicks' defensive issues. This contest should also be a good tune-up for their next 3 games against the Cavs, Heat and Bulls.
With the addition of Harden, the 76ers are a threat in the East and they have no dramas with the struggling Knicks in Philly. They have an excellent record against New York at home and they're 2-0 ATS with Harden in 76ers jersey.
Stadium Record
The 76ers are 6-3 in their last 9 home games. The Knicks have a terrible 1-9 record in Philadelphia.
Head to Head Record
Philadelphia has won 8 of the last 10 meetings and recently beat the Knicks by 16 on Monday.
Best Bet
Philadelphia 76ers -10.5 = $1.91
Miami Heat (41-21) at Milwaukee Bucks (37-25)
The Heat are coming off 4 straight wins and their defence was a highlight in Tuesday's 112-99 victory over the Bulls. So they will seek a statement win over the Bucks on the road in Thursday's clash. Miami don't have a good record in Milwaukee, however, they have won 6 straight road games and also hold a 2-1 record against the defending champs this season. They'll still be without Kyle Lowry but the likes of Butler and Adebayo have been consistently playing well.
The Bucks bounced back from 2 straight defeats with an impressive display against the Hornets in the 130-106 result on Tuesday. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the team with 26 pts and Jrue Holiday added support with 21. Their offence has been strong considering they've scored 121 points per game in their last 5. So an interesting factor in this contest will be the Heat's strong defence against the Bucks high powered offence. Meanwhile, the Bucks would be happy with their defence after allowing just 106 pts against Charlotte.
We'll be expecting a tough battle between two of the better teams in the East and as a result, the Heat do look good value to cover as a road underdog. They've won their last 5 road games and their defence should keep them in the battle against Giannis.
Stadium Record
The Bucks are 6-4 in their last 10 home games. Miami holds a poor 1-4 record in their last 5 in Milwaukee.
Head to Head Record
The Heat are 2-1 against the Bucks this season.
Best Bet
Portland Trail Blazers (25-36) at Phoenix Suns (49-12)
After 2 straight massive defeats at home, the Trail Blazers will need to improve against the Suns. Portland come off a 32 pt loss against the Nuggets and that followed a 37 pt loss against the Warriors. After failing to score over 100 pts in both defeats, it's hard to see them improving against one of the best teams in the NBA.
The Suns have lost back to back home games and will be eager to get back on track against Portland. They are missing the importance and veteran experience of Chris Paul. However, the Trail Blazers defence shouldn't give the likes of Booker and Ayton much trouble. The Suns have also won 8 of their last 10 home games and should be looking to regain form for an upcoming trip to Milwaukee.
This should be fast-paced matchup and the Overs looks a solid bet. The Trail Blazers have allowed an average of 128 pts in their last 2 games and the Suns should take full advantage. Meanwhile, the Suns defence hasn't been as strong lately with 117.5 points allowed in their last 2.
Stadium Record
Phoenix is 8-2 in their last games at home. Portland has lost 4 of their last 5 in Phoenix.
Head to Head Record
The Suns hold a 7-3 record in the last 10 meetings.
Best Bet
