Daily NBA Tips – Saturday 18th January

The Thunder made short work of the Cavs last night in what turned out to be a blowout, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. A quick trip to Dallas follows on short rest, although that’s hardly been a problem for OKC given they’ve played to a perfect 7-0 record in the second half of a back to back this year. Luka Doncic remains on the shelf, and Kyrie Irving is listed as day to day with a back injury. With the Mavs allowed close to 117 points on average over their last 10 games, and the Thunder ranking dead last in the league in the same category, this could be another ugly meeting similar to their latest showdown in early December. 

Tip: Back the Thunder to Cover the Line  

Player Pick 

MVP and All-Star honours aside, SGA is the man you want to bet on in this one. He’s averaging 32 points in the second game of a back-to-back this year, and notably put up 39 on the Thunder the last time these two sides met. 

Tip: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Over Points Total 

The Spurs and Grizzlies meet for the second time in three days after Memphis won Thursday’s meeting 129-115. The Grizzlies dominated in the paint and shot over 42% from three thanks to the hot hand of Luke Kennard. With a two-day break upcoming before they host Minnesota, the Grizz should sense the importance of this game with a chance to close the gap on second-seed Houston in the Western standings. 

Tip: Back the Grizzlies to Cover the Line (-2 Points)

Player Pick 

The battle down low between Victor Wembanyama and Zach Edey was fascinating on Thursday, although it was largely one-way traffic in favour of San Antonio’s big man. Wemby reeled in 12 boards to go with his 13 points, while Edey managed only 5 and 6 respectively. Statistically, Memphis is the second-best team in the league when it comes to rebounding, while the Spurs have given up the most boards in the league all season. With revenge in mind, this might be the night for Edey to have his say. 

Tip: Zach Edey Over Rebounds Total