NBA Betting Picks: 2/8/21

There are nine games on tap tonight, giving us plenty of options to choose from. There are quite a few large spreads, as the Mavs are -9.5 against the Timberwolves and the Lakers are -10 against the Thunder. The prime matchup of the evening is Nikola Jokic vs Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Bucks travel to Denver where they are four-point favorites in what is projected to be one of the higher scoring games of the night. We will be looking at odds from DraftKings Sportsbook. There are some injuries to note tonight as Devonte Graham is out for Charlotte, LaMarcus Aldridge is ruled out, and Anthony Davis is doubtful.

Washington Wizards @ Chicago Bulls Over 238.5

We have a high total in this one, sitting at 238.5 This is the highest total on the night and it makes sense given the offenses can put up points and the defenses are abysmal. Both Washington and Chicago are top-ten in points scored this season, averaging over 114 points per game. Washington has allowed 121 points per game and Chicago is not far behind allowing 116. Both teams have heavy usage guards with Westbrook/Beal and White/LaVine. Both teams rank in the bottom ten in defensive efficiency against backcourts.

There is something to watch here as Russell Westbrook is in the midst of a back-to-back, which he has not played both games of one this season. If Westbrook sits out that does downgrade this slightly, but it is likely still going to be an incredibly high scoring game. Deni Avdija and Rui Hachimura are in good spots against a Chicago defense that ranks 22nd against SFs. Washington ranks 30th in defensive efficiency against frontcourts. You get -112 odds to hit the over, I will certainly take that.

Golden State Warriors +1.5 @ San Antonio Spurs

Stephen Curry and the Warriors are coming off a loss to Dallas but Curry had a terrific game. Golden State is slight dogs in this one and a total is sitting over 230. The Spurs are not the slow defensive team they once were. As mentioned above, LaMarcus Aldridge is out tonight, which is actually notable despite his on and off season so far. Golden State struggles defensively against centers. The Warriors are middle of the road against backcourts in defensive efficiency but are holding them to 42% from the field, where the Spurs are allowing guards to shoot 47% from the field and 40% from three.

The Warriors are 5-2 ATS over the last seven games and have dominated the Spurs over the last few seasons despite injuries. I like the way this Warriors team matches up. Curry is in a really good spot and Wiggins and Oubre are in sneaky good spots as well.

Gordon Hayward Over 21.5 Points (-105)

Gordon Hayward has been playing like his Utah days again. Going to Charlotte where he can become a strong scoring threat was a big plus. He has averaged 23.1 points per game this season and has a 49/41/82 shooting line. If he continues at this pace he will be at a career-high in points and three-pointers made. This game is sitting with a 223 total and against a Houston team that has allowed the 6th most points per game to small forwards. Hayward is also averaging 23 points per game and carries a 26% usage with Graham off the court.