2023 NBA May 7 Betting Predictions
The NBA playoffs action on Tuesday will see the Knicks hosting the Pacers in Game 1 at MSG. Meanwhile, the T-Wolves and Anthony Edwards look to go up 2-0 against the defending champs.
Indiana Pacers at New York Knicks (Series tied 0-0)
The Pacers were on fire in the 4-2 series win over the Bucks, with every player stepping up to contribute and propel Indiana into the second round. Pascal Siakam has been leading the charge, averaging an impressive 22.3 points and 8.8 rebounds while shooting 54% from the field. Expect him to remain a key offensive weapon for the Pacers, likely facing off against former teammate OG Anunoby. Myles Turner has also been a force to be reckoned with, averaging 19.2 points and 7.2 rebounds per game while shooting efficiently from both inside and beyond the arc. His matchup against Isaiah Hartenstein promises to be a tough battle. Tyrese Haliburton continues to shine as the face of the franchise, showcasing his playmaking skills with 16 points and 9.3 assists per game. All eyes will be on his matchup with Jalen Brunson. Meanwhile, Andrew Nembhard provides another scoring option for the Pacers, shooting lights out with 13.8 points per game against the Bucks. Obi Toppin has been a reliable backup forward/centre, while Aaron Nesmith adds intrigue with his scoring prowess. If the Pacers can maintain their offensive momentum and find ways to contain Brunson and the Knicks, they stand a good chance of covering the spread and advancing further in the playoffs.
Jalen Brunson is gearing up for a massive showdown with the Pacers as he aims to lead the Knicks to their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance in over two years. Coming off a stellar performance averaging an impressive 35.5 points per game against the 76ers, Brunson is poised to continue his scoring spree in what promises to be an epic matchup against Haliburton. Hart, despite his solid contributions averaging 16.8 points and 12.3 rebounds per game, will need to elevate his shooting game and contain Nesmith effectively. Anunoby's consistent performance, averaging 15 points per game, has been instrumental in the Knicks' success, particularly in the absence of Julius Randle. His anticipated clash with Siakam adds an extra layer of intrigue given their shared history as teammates. DiVincenzo and McBride provide valuable options off the bench, although their shooting percentages will need improvement to bolster the Knicks' offence. With a focus on dominating the boards and Brunson's continued dominance, the Knicks have a solid chance of covering the spread and securing a victory.
I expect Game 1 to be a high scoring affair with the likes of Brunson and Haliburton in good form. The Over is now 15-3 in the Knicks last 18 and also 7-1 when they're at home. Also, the Over has saluted in 9 of the last 11 games involving the Pacers.
Stadium Record
New York are 6-4 in their last 10 at home. Indiana are 2-2 in their last 4.
Head to Head Record
In the last 10, the Knicks are 6-4.
Best Bet
Minnesota Timberwolves at Denver Nuggets (Timberwolves 1-0)
Anthony Edwards has undeniably emerged as the standout player for the Timberwolves, playing a pivotal role in their undefeated playoff streak. With an impressive stat line averaging 33.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 5.6 assists over five games, Edwards' stellar performance has been the linchpin of the team's success. Riding on his exceptional form, the Timberwolves have proven to be a force on the court, making them an incredibly tough opponent to overcome. Maintaining this level of play is key for the Timberwolves as they aim to secure a commanding 2-0 lead on Tuesday. Additionally, the Timberwolves showcased their defensive prowess in game one against the Nuggets by holding them to under 100 points — which definitely isn't easy when you're facing Jokic and Murray. Their defensive strength, which carried over from the regular season when they ranked among the top defensive teams in the NBA, has been instrumental in their playoff victories. Allowing just 102.4 points per game in the postseason, their defensive tenacity remains a vital factor in their current winning streak. If they can sustain this defensive intensity, the Timberwolves are poised to emerge victorious once again.
In game 1 on Sunday, the Nuggets relied heavily on Jokic's standout performance, while impressive, came as no surprise given his consistent excellence. However, for the Nuggets to secure victory, they need their supporting cast to step up, particularly Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. Although Porter Jr. contributed 20 points and Murray added 17 in game one, their efforts must be elevated for Denver to triumph. If both players can get around 20 points each, the Nuggets stand a strong chance of clinching the win. Furthermore, Denver must maintain their defensive intensity, as evidenced by their solid performance in game one where they held their opponents to just 106 points. Historically, when the Nuggets limited their opponents to fewer than 110 points in the regular season, they boasted an impressive record of 37-7. While it's unlikely Denver will replicate a sub-100-point defensive effort, their defensive prowess should still be sufficient to secure the victory in this matchup.
It's hard to go past the in-form Timberwolves after their Game 1 victory. With Edwards in great form, I think they can push the Nuggets all the way on Tuesday. They're also 5-0 ATS in their last 5 and 6-1 ATS when they face the Nuggets.
Stadium Record
Denver are 7-3 in their last 10 at home. Minnesota are 4-12 in their last 16.
Head to Head Record
The Nuggets hold a 6-4 record in the last 10 meetings.
Best Bet
