Atlanta Hawks vs Miami Heat
9:00am, State Farm Arena
The Hawks were incredibly disappointing during Wednesday’s first Play-In game, shooting only 19% from three and being outrebounded 54-42 against the Magic. The Heat punished the Bulls from beyond the arc in Thursday’s matchup in Chicago, and it was clear their playoff experience carried them a long way with Tyler Herro setting the tone with a 38-point performance. Neither team inspires a great deal of betting confidence, but I do think the Heat are the more reliable team giving their shooting efficiency, as well their ability to score on the fast break – something they weren’t doing at all at the start of the season.
Tip: Heat to Cover (+1)
Memphis Grizzlies vs Dallas Mavericks
11:30am, FedEx Forum
The Grizzlies have won their last three meetings over the Mavs dating back to December, all of which have come by a double-digit margin. Memphis should be playing with a chip on its shoulder after blowing a chance to tie the game against the Dubs on Wednesday, while the Grizz have also been a steady betting play after a previous loss behind a 21-13 record. It helps knowing that these two sides met just under a week ago, a game Memphis won big without Ja Morant. Their pace completely ran Dallas ragged, while they also dominated in the paint to the tune of 53 rebounds. If that’s the case again on Saturday with Morant back on the floor, this could turn ugly.
Tip: Back the Grizzlies to Cover