Nine games make up the hard court action on Thursday, and our daily tips and best NBA bets feature a crucial Finals-like showdown between the Celtics and Thunder!
Boston Celtics vs Oklahoma City Thunder
9:30am, TD Garden
A potential Finals matchup in the making, but let’s just hope it turns out more competitive than January’s meeting that saw the Thunder walk away 13-point winners. Unfortunately, we could see a similar scenario play out with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown on the injury report for Boston, potentially joining Kristaps Porzingis, who’s already been ruled out through illness. It’s worth noting the Thunder’s outstanding 14-5-4 record against the line in these non-conference games, not to mention Boston’s upcoming back-to-back road set starting on Friday in Miami.
Tip: Back the Thunder to Cover the Line (+4 Points)
Miami Heat vs Los Angeles Clippers
10:00am, Kaseya Center
Backing the Clippers in the second half of a back to back is a risky proposition, particularly on the road after playing in New Orleans last night. Still, Ty Lue’s side has been a steady bet in these non-conference games, while they also strike Miami at an opportune time with a few key players on the injured list. Los Angeles has won eight of its last 10 against Miami, including January’s 11-point beatdown that saw James Harden go 6-from-11 from three.
Tip: Back the Clippers to Cover the Line
Portland Trail Blazers vs New York Knicks
12:00pm, Moda Center
The Blazers have been a solid bet at the line all year, particularly at the Moda Center where they’ve gone 18-13 overall. The Knicks are still without Jalen Brunson for the next few weeks, although that didn’t stop them putting up 133 points on the Kings on Tuesday. Even so, this Blazers team has been very tough to shoot against from three, an area of concern for the Knicks who rank 23rd in three-pointers made. With three days off to follow, Portland looks a decent bet at home with a head start.
Tip: Back the Blazers to Cover the Line (+4.5 Points)