NBA Best Bets Monday 12/23/24
The NBA delivers a loaded 14-game slate today, perfect for locking in some key bets before the holiday break. With no games scheduled for tomorrow, this is the time to take advantage of matchups and trends that stand out. Here are the best bets for today’s NBA action, broken down with insights into the matchups and why each bet holds value. Let’s dive in!
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Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Utah Jazz
- Suggested Bet: Donovan Mitchell Over 26.5 Points
Cleveland is playing at home as 14-point favorites against the struggling Jazz. Utah ranks 30th in defensive efficiency, which opens the door for Mitchell to dominate, especially from the perimeter.Ā Utah has struggled mightily against opposing guards, ranking dead last in three-pointers allowed to the position over the past seven games.Ā Mitchell thrives in high-volume games like this, where his scoring opportunities should be plentiful, especially with Utah’s inability to defend the three-point line effectively.
Philadelphia 76ers vs. San Antonio Spurs
- Suggested Bet: Tyrese Maxey Over 24.5 Points
With Joel Embiid listed as questionable, Maxey becomes the focal point of the Sixers’ offense. Over his last five games, he’s averaged nearly 28 points when Embiid has been limited or absent.Ā San Antonio’s defense ranks 29th in points allowed in the paint, which is where Maxey thrives with his driving ability.Ā The Spurs allow the third-most assists to opposing point guards, which supports Maxey’s ability to fill the stat sheet.Houston Rockets vs. Charlotte Hornets
Houston Rockets vs. Charlotte Hornets
Houston has been a strong team in back-to-backs, covering 60% of the time in such scenarios this season.Ā Charlotte will be without Brandon Miller, and their 30th-ranked pace means fewer possessions to exploit Houstonās defense.Ā The Rockets are excellent at defending the three-point line, allowing the second-fewest points from three-pointers, neutralizing one of Charlotteās few offensive strengths.
Boston Celtics vs. Orlando Magic
Orlando is reeling from injuries to key players, including Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero, leaving their defense vulnerable.Ā The Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, rank as a top-three offense in efficiency and should take full advantage of Orlandoās depleted roster.Ā Even against the Magicās strong perimeter defense, Bostonās depth ensures they can hit this modest total.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Atlanta Hawks
- Suggested Bet: Anthony Edwards Over 3.5 Three-Pointers
Atlanta ranks among the league’s worst at defending the three-point line, and Edwards has hit this line in 60% of his last 10 games.Ā The Timberwolves will rely on Edwards to space the floor, especially with his ability to capitalize on Atlantaās defensive lapses.Ā This game has one of the higher projected totals on the slate, at 222 points, offering plenty of opportunities for Edwards to fire from deep.
Memphis Grizzlies vs. Los Angeles Clippers
Memphis has been a defensive powerhouse at home, covering the under in 75% of their games.Ā The Clippers are coming off a road trip and will look to slow the pace to keep the game within reach.Ā The Grizzliesā ability to defend the paint neutralizes one of the Clippers’ main offensive weapons, forcing a slower, half-court game.
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Detroit Pistons
The Lakers are returning home after a grueling stretch of road games and have won four of their last five.Ā Detroitās defense has been abysmal, allowing over 125 points per game in their last three outings.Ā With LeBron James and Anthony Davis both expected to play, the Lakers should have no problem covering this spread against a Pistons team lacking interior defense.
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