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<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>In one of the most compelling first-round series in recent memory, brimming with chaotic finishes and controversies, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/3" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/3">Knicks</a> prevailed over the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/4" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/4">Sixers</a> in six games. </p><p>Meanwhile, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/9" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/9">Pacers</a> defeated the <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/10">Bucks</a> (also in six contests) in a less thrilling matchup, marking the first time Indiana advanced in the playoffs in a decade.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Knicks-Pacers showdown is a clash between two teams with opposing play styles. Indiana's pace-and-space style, which led it to the NBA's second-best offense, will be challenged against New York's bruising, physical defense. It's not hard to guess which team will emerge victorious: The Knicks are -245 to win the series and the Pacers are +200.</p><p>This isn't a question of if the Knicks will win, but how many games will it take for them to win?</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Series score</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Knicks 4-0</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Knicks 4-1</td>
<td>+310</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Knicks 4-2</td>
<td>+450</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Knicks 4-3</td>
<td>+350</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Pacers were destined for a first-round exit after a subpar second half of the season and the deterioration of guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a>, who hasn't been the same since returning from a hamstring injury in late January.</p><p>But Indiana got the best draw in the postseason: a matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks without MVP candidate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> for the entire series and no <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> for two of the six games. Despite their competitive spirit, that version of Milwaukee is barely a play-in team. But it still took Indiana six games to advance.</p><p>Now the Pacers head to New York to take on another injury-riddled - yet unphased - seven-man rotation.</p><p>The Knicks outscored the Sixers by one point through six games but outrebounded them by 26 in the series, propelling them to four wins. The rebounding battle has been the difference for New York the past two seasons, and the team has a massive advantage over Indiana in that department.</p><p>New York's offensive rebounding rate also leads the league, as the team cleans up 33% of its misses. Indiana, meanwhile, has the fifth-worst opponent offensive rebounding rate. The Knicks generate points through offensive boards - they lead playoff teams in second-chance points - and the Pacers' suspect rebounding group has no chance of stopping that.</p><p>Great offensive rebounding teams usually send many players to the glass, leading to defensive transition miscues. But the Knicks, despite prioritizing the offensive boards, have an above-average transition defense. Their defensive balance is unaffected when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30695" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/30695">Josh Hart</a> flies in from the perimeter to get his hands on the ball.</p><p>Indiana excels in transition, scoring the NBA's fourth-most fast-break points. If the Knicks limit the Pacers' opportunities, it'll be an even quicker series than expected.</p><p>The Pacers led the league in paint points, and the Knicks ranked fifth in opponent paint points allowed. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60051" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/60051">Isaiah Hartenstein</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62053" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/62053">Mitchell Robinson</a>'s elite rim protection prevents easy baskets around the rim.</p><p>The series offers some intriguing individual matchups, but the Knicks are at an advantage because the Pacers can't defend. It's been their kryptonite all season - they had one of the league's worst defensive ratings and by far the worst among playoff teams.</p><p>As the Pacers attempt to blitz <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a>'s pick-and-rolls, their weak point-of-attack defense won't stop him and his teammates from generating easy looks.</p><p>Haliburton, meanwhile, is one of the league's best passers, but a hesitant scorer. He comes off screens looking to pass instead of finding his shot or turning the corner to get to the rim. Brunson doesn't have that problem. While a willing passer, Brunson glides off ball screens in attack mode.</p><p>Brunson, the postseason's leading scorer, could also find even more motivation from two factors in this series: He played for Pacers coach Rick Carlisle in Dallas, where the head coach tendered Brunson sporadic postseason minutes in the former's final season there. And, Haliburton was named to the USA National Team for the upcoming Summer Olympics over Brunson, who's arguably the better overall player.</p><p>Expect Brunson's heroics to easily lead the Knicks past the Pacers.</p><p><strong>Bet</strong>: Knicks in 5 (+310), Knicks in 6 (+450)</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 10: Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks dribbles the ball during the game against the Indiana Pacers on February 10, 2024 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Knicks vs. Pacers betting preview

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/3" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/3">Knicks</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/9" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/9">Pacers</a> are set to meet in the second round after eliminating the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/4" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/4">Sixers</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/10" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/10">Bucks</a>, respectively, from the postseason.</p><p>There are still two more series to wrap up, both of which can conclude Friday night. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/17" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/17">Clippers</a> will attempt to force a Game 7 against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/21" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/21">Mavericks</a>, and the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/14" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/14">Magic</a> hope to do the same against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/7" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/7">Cavaliers</a>. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>We're 7-1 in our last eight bets here, so let's finish the week strong with a wager on each matchup.</p><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2433152">Clippers @ Mavericks (-8, O/U 208)</a></h3><p>The Clippers are in a familiar spot. They were down 3-2 in a first-round series to Dallas in 2021 and fought back to win. But Los Angeles is missing a familiar face this time: <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a> remains out with a knee issue, meaning <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/1889" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/1889">Paul George</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a>, and the Clippers' supporting cast will be tasked with the heavy lifting.</p><p>They can keep Game 6 close if they get hot from distance, as shooting variance has played a huge role in determining each game. Los Angeles shot 54% from deep in its two wins and 28% from three in its three losses. </p><p>Expect L.A. to be extra tenacious in an elimination game. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> is nursing a knee injury, which has certainly impacted him defensively. The Clippers should continue to target Doncic to force him to guard the ball.</p><p>I'm not sure Los Angeles will win and force a Game 7. Dallas is also an improved group from three years ago. I don't expect history to repeat itself, but I do expect Los Angeles to compete and keep it within the number.</p><p><strong>Pick</strong>: Clippers +8</p><h3>Donovan Mitchell: Under 25.5 points</h3><p>We advised taking the over on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44998" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Mitchell</a>'s points prop in Game 5 in Cleveland, and it cashed. Let's apply the same logic to pick Mitchell's under in Orlando for Game 6.</p><p>Mitchell averaged six fewer points on the road than at home this season. In this series, he's averaged 27 points in three home games and 15.5 points in two away games.</p><p>The Magic's defensive rating is significantly better in Orlando, and their defensive pressure has created challenges for Mitchell, who's having a poor shooting series. If they want to stay alive, the Magic must shut down Mitchell.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -118</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - MAY 1: Luka Doncic #77 of the Dallas Mavericks plays defense during the game against the LA Clippers during Round 1 Game 5 of the 2024 NBA Playoffs on May 1, 2024 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Can the Clippers force Game 7?

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/27" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/27">Timberwolves</a>' profile keeps rising after their first series win since 2004.</p><p>Minnesota deserves credit for dismantling a team led by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37815" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37815">Devin Booker</a>, but the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/19" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/19">Suns</a> were dysfunctional and poorly constructed. Can the Wolves' success carry over to a second-round matchup against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/26" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/26">Nuggets</a>, or did their first-round series have more to do with the Suns' ineptitude?</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Nuggets Odds (Implied %)</th>
<th>Wolves Odds (Implied %)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>-205 (67%)</td>
<td>+170 (37%)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Wolves have the personnel to match up with the reigning champions and Western Conference favorites. Their roster boasts size, a clutch superstar, a towering defense, and stable role players - a championship recipe. </p><p>But their opponent has championship pedigree - and the deadliest duo in the sport: <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44995" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/44995">Jamal Murray</a> outscored opponents by 15.3 points per 100 possessions when they shared the floor this season.</p><p>Minnesota's key to a potential win is limiting Jokic's impact. That starts with Defensive Player of the Year favorite <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30615" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/30615">Rudy Gobert</a>.</p><p>Gobert is like a school bully, using his weak side rotations to terrorize smaller opponents who dare to drive through the lane. But it gets ugly when he's tasked with picking on someone his own size.</p><p>Jokic dominated Gobert this season, outmuscling and outsmarting the French big. In four games against the Wolves, Jokic averaged 33 points - seven higher than his season average.</p><p>Minnesota's defensive strategy in last year's playoffs and this year's regular season included cross-matches in which <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69736" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/69736">Naz Reid</a> or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a> guard Jokic while Gobert floats around for extra rim protection. But Jokic's deceptively quick step and soft touch exposed those coverages, too. Towns committed 17 fouls in four games against the Suns and is too valuable offensively to get caught on Jokic for long stretches.</p><p>The Wolves, theoretically, have the frontcourt size and depth to compete with the Nuggets' desire to score around the rim, but Jokic is an unsolvable puzzle.</p><p>Jokic is a pass-first big who can generate any look he wants in single coverage. If Minnesota sends doubles, he'll find a cutting teammate. Using Gobert to guard non-shooter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30810" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/30810">Aaron Gordon</a> and serve as a floater essentially disguises a double-team. Gordon, however, excels in the dunker spot.</p><p>The Wolves' regular-season approach turned Jokic into a scorer. The Serbian averaged 4.3 assists against the Wolves, down from his 9.8 average on the campaign. Three of his six lowest assist totals came against Minnesota.</p><p>That leads us to valuable bets: Jokic to have the most points in the series (+155) and Murray to have the most assists (+800).</p><p>Shame on me for making it this far without mentioning <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a>, a 22-year-old cold-blooded assassin and Minnesota's driving force.</p><p>Denver will employ a group effort to contain Edwards, including sticking Gordon and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11367" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/11367">Kentavious Caldwell-Pope</a> on the dynamic guard. Edwards is talented enough to will the Wolves to the conference finals.</p><p>However, Minnesota's crunch-time offense is a concern, as the team only played one "clutch" game in the opening round. Clutch offense was one of the Wolves' regular-season weaknesses; they ranked in the league's bottom half, while the Nuggets were the NBA's best clutch team.</p><p>Every possession is crucial in the waning minutes of tight playoff games. Murray and Jokic's two-man game consistently generates quality looks. And, although Edwards is clutch, it's harder to trust the Wolves' entire group, which could cost them games.</p><p>Murray's health could pose a problem for Denver. Everyone remembers his game-winning shots, yet the Canadian shot 29% from three and 40% from the field in five games against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/18" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/18">Lakers</a> as he dealt with a calf injury.</p><p>The four rest days before Saturday's Game 1 should help, but Denver - the 4.5-point favorite - needs a healthy and efficient Murray against Minnesota.</p><p>Denver's offense relies on shots at the rim, but it still has to make threes at a high clip. The Nuggets have shot 30% from three in the playoffs, the third-worst among teams still playing. But they connected on 37% of their deep looks during the season, creating optimism that they're due for positive regression. But Minnesota allowed the third-fewest 3-point makes per game.</p><p>The Wolves' role players - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93891" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/93891">Jaden McDaniels</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/227" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/227">Mike Conley</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60881" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/60881">Nickeil Alexander-Walker</a> - proved their worth offensively. They all averaged double figures in the opening round. Minnesota could pull off the upset if that production continues.</p><p>The Wolves will be a perennial contender in the West, but sweeping the Suns doesn't mean they're ready to knock out the favorites. Minnesota doesn't have the pairing of Jokic and Murray in its tool kit. Until proven otherwise, that's the key to the championship.</p><p><strong>Bet</strong>: Nuggets -1.5 games (+115)</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

DENVER, CO - APRIL 10: Nikola Jokic (15) of the Denver Nuggets drives on Rudy Gobert (27) of the Minnesota Timberwolves during the third quarter at Ball Arena in Denver on Wednesday, April 10, 2024.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/27170940/related

Nuggets vs. Timberwolves betting preview

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>Thursday's slate features two elimination games. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/4" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/4">Sixers</a> attempt to keep their season alive in Philadelphia and force a Game 7 against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/3" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/3">Knicks</a>. Meanwhile, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/9" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/9">Pacers</a> will try to close out the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/10" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/10">Bucks</a> at home. The winner of each series will meet in the second round.</p><p>Let's get to our best bets for the NBA doubleheader. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2433146">Bucks @ Pacers (-7.5, O/U 214.5)</a></h3><p>The Bucks staved off elimination in Game 5 to force a Game 6 in Indianapolis, an impressive feat considering Milwaukee's injuries. The Bucks' victory was the first time in NBA history a team won a playoff game without its top two scorers.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> are expected to remain out for Game 6. Milwaukee's desperation and elevated intensity led it to a home win. </p><p>But Indiana's focus should be at a different gear to prevent this series from going to Game 7.</p><p>Besides <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4789" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/4789">Khris Middleton</a>, the Bucks lack reliable scorers to string wins together. Milwaukee's defense - particularly in transition - carried it to a win last game. However, Indiana's offense uncharacteristically struggled to shoot and never developed a rhythm. The Bucks' disappointing and injury-riddled campaign will end Thursday.</p><p><strong>Pick</strong>: Pacers -7.5</p><h3>Kyle Lowry: Under 7.5 points</h3><p>Sixers coach Nick Nurse finally reduced <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/160" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/160">Lowry</a>'s minutes in Game 5, leading to a win. </p><p>Philadelphia's best lineups feature <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/412" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/412">Nicolas Batum</a> on the court and Lowry on the bench, especially in crunch time. </p><p>Lowry played just 26 minutes last game after he recorded over 30 minutes in the four prior contests. He scored zero points. Even when Lowry is in the game, he's a pass-first guard who rarely shoots.</p><p>Expect Nurse to follow a similar blueprint to Game 5 considering the Sixers' late-game success, further decreasing Lowry's time on the floor.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -120</p><h3>Isaiah Hartenstein: Over 7.5 points</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60051" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/60051">Hartenstein</a> splits time at center with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62053" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/62053">Mitchell Robinson</a> when both are healthy. But in Game 5, Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau mistakenly left Robinson in the game for too long, resulting in boneheaded plays that ultimately cost New York the game.</p><p>Robinson has successfully guarded <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a>, so he deserves a sizable workload, but Hartenstein is the better option offensively.</p><p>Hartenstein has a dependable floater and is an efficient finisher when New York's guards dish to him around the rim. He scored at least eight points in three of the last four games. Assuming he stays out of foul trouble, Hartenstein should play around 30 minutes in Game 6. That'll lead to plenty of scoring chances.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -115</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 22: Tyrese Maxey #0 of the Philadelphia 76ers shoots the ball during the game against the New York Knicks during Round 1 Game 2 of the 2024 NBA Playoffs on April 22, 2024 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Bets to target as Sixers, Bucks fight off elimination

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>The NBA playoffs continue to deliver thrilling finishes. Tuesday's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/4" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/4">Sixers</a> miracle and the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/7" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/7">Cavs</a>' nail-biting win continued a streak of phenomenal and intense playoff basketball.</p><p>There are only two games Wednesday, with the Heat facing elimination, so here are our plays for each: </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2433151">Mavericks @ Clippers (+3, O/U 208.5)</a></h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a> is out for the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/17" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/17">Clippers</a> and will likely watch the remainder of the series. The good news for L.A.: It won both games without Leonard and lost both games with him.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> is playing through a knee injury, but he's had two days of rest since Sunday's Game 4. That extra day of rest should help.</p><p>The Clippers also deserve credit for executing a sound defensive game plan intended to get the ball out of Doncic's hands. Doncic has improved as a defender throughout this season, but he was a liability defensively in Game 4 on a hobbled leg. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a> continuously blew by Doncic, who should be switched onto a lesser player moving forward.</p><p>Expect the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/21" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/21">Mavs</a> to make that adjustment, along with others to limit the Clippers' Leonard-less attack. Without Leonard, the Mavs are the better group with the series' best player. As simple as it sounds, this will come down to Dallas making shots and limiting L.A.'s threes, which I trust Dallas will do consistently.</p><p><strong>Pick</strong>: Mavs -3</p><h3>Al Horford: Over 7.5 rebounds</h3><p>It's only logical to target <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/12" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/12">Horford</a>'s player props in the absence of starting center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44888" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/44888">Kristaps Porzingis</a>. Horford will move into the starting lineup and play significantly more minutes as Porzingis recovers from a calf injury.</p><p>Porzingis was never a monstrous rebounder for Boston, which takes a team approach to rebounding. Porzingis plays a lot of stretch-big, meaning he hangs out on the perimeter. Horford will have to assume that role to a degree to create more space.</p><p>Horford averaged 6.4 rebounds in 26 minutes per night during the season. He grabbed eight boards in two of the last three games in this series. He'll play well over 30 minutes, so there should be plenty of chances to capitalize on the glass.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><p> </p>

DALLAS, TEXAS - APRIL 28: James Harden #1 of the Los Angeles Clippers goes up for a shot while defended by Luka Doncic #77 of the Dallas Mavericks in the second half of game four of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs at American Airlines Center on April 28, 2024 in Dallas, Texas.

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Look for Mavs to handle Clippers in Game 5

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/3" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/3">Knicks</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/9" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/9">Pacers</a> can advance to the second round of the NBA playoffs with a win Tuesday night. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/4" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/4">76ers</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/10" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/10">Bucks</a>, once considered favorites to win the East, are on the brink of elimination. Oh, and the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/7" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/7">Cavaliers</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/14" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/14">Magic</a> play on NBA TV again.</p><p>Here are our three best bets for Tuesday's slate.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>76ers team total: Over 99.5 points</h3><p>The Sixers are on the brink of elimination. While it's been the softer group in this series, Philadelphia won't roll over and quit against a Knicks team it truly believes it's better than.</p><p>The Knicks successfully limited <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a> in the second half of Game 4. That was partly because of New York's coverages - timely doubles and fronting the post - and partly due to Embiid's fatigue. The reigning MVP (for another couple of weeks at least) played the entire second half in Game 4, the first time he played 24 straight minutes in a playoff game.</p><p>Sixers coach Nick Nurse had a lose-lose dilemma on his hands. He could've sat Embiid and watched his team fall apart in the non-Embiid minutes, which has been a theme all series. Or, he could've played a hobbled Embiid the entire second half. He opted for the latter, and it backfired as Embiid was visibly exhausted, scoring one point and grabbing one rebound in the fourth quarter.</p><p>Game 5 will come down to how the Sixers fare without Embiid on the court and if they can rebound effectively. I'd expect a vengeful, aggressive Embiid in Game 5 with his season on the line. Nurse's staff will figure out ways to counteract the Knicks' defensive coverages.</p><p>Philly has scored at least 100 points in three of the four games, including both of the contests in New York.</p><p>I'm not comfortable taking the points with the Sixers, but I'd wager on their offense to show up. </p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -110</p><h3>Donovan Mitchell: Over 24.5 points</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44998" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Mitchell</a>'s the engine for the Cavs' offense. It goes as he goes. So when Mitchell struggles - like he did the last two games - Cleveland's offense struggles.</p><p>But those two games were on the road, and Tuesday's Game 5 is at home. Mitchell was a significantly better scorer at home than on the road all season, which has carried over into the playoffs. He scored 30 and 23 in the first two home games of the series, then 13 and 18 in the last two road games.</p><p>The Magic's defense has played a role in stopping Mitchell, but their defense doesn't travel well. Orlando's defensive rating is much better at home than on the road.</p><p>The Cavs need Mitchell to show up to earn a win and take a 3-2 series lead. It's fair to expect he'll do that back in Cleveland. </p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -112</p><h3>Tobias Harris: Over 6.5 rebounds</h3><p>Sixers fans may be fed up with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6332" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/6332">Harris</a>, and he's likely counting the days before he can leave Philadelphia. But the Sixers need Harris and other role players to step up if they're to mount a comeback. That doesn't only include the scoring department.</p><p>The difference in this series has been the rebounding battle. The Knicks have grabbed 30 more rebounds than the Sixers. In the two games New York won somewhat decisively, it outrebounded Philly by 22 and 10. In the lone match the Sixers won, they outrebounded the Knicks. In the Game 2 thriller that the Sixers blew in the final seconds, Philadelphia only lost the rebounding battle by two.</p><p>Rebounding is the key to Tuesday's elimination game. The Sixers can win if they limit the Knicks on the glass - believe it or not, Philly leads playoff teams in box outs - and prevent New York from generating extra possessions. </p><p>That'll require a total team effort, especially in the fourth quarter when Embiid can barely jump for a rebound. Harris recorded at least eight rebounds in three of the four games. He should remain committed to the boards Tuesday night.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -135</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 22: Joel Embiid #21 and Tyrese Maxey #0 of the Philadelphia 76ers look on during the game against the New York Knicks during Round 1 Game 2 of the 2024 NBA Playoffs on April 22, 2024 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Will the 76ers avoid elimination in New York?

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>The first round of the NBA playoffs is proving to be delightful. Only one series is complete - the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/27" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/27">Timberwolves</a> swept the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/19" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/19">Suns</a> - and even the lopsided series are entertaining and chaotic.</p><p>Monday's slate features two teams - the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/26" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/26">Nuggets</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/28" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/28">Thunder</a> - that can advance to the second round with a win. Let's get to our bets.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2433143">Lakers @ Nuggets (-7.5, O/U 217)</a></h3><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/18" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/18">Lakers</a> snapped their 11-game losing streak to the Nuggets and staved off elimination Saturday night in Los Angeles.</p><p>Most of the matchups between these two teams follow a similar blueprint - the Lakers build a lead before Denver comes back by executing at a high level in the clutch - but that wasn't the case in Game 4, when the Lakers were playing for pride and trying to avoid a sweep in consecutive postseasons.</p><p>Expect Game 5 to revert to the norm. The better team will emerge victorious in relatively dominant fashion. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44995" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/44995">Jamal Murray</a>'s health is the only reason this is debatable. He's listed as questionable with a calf strain.</p><p>Murray should play, but I'd wait to pull the trigger on Denver until it's confirmed. The line assumes Murray is playing, so it won't move in Denver's direction, and it'll certainly move in L.A.'s favor if he's out.</p><p><strong>Pick</strong>: Nuggets -7.5</p><h3>Kristaps Porzingis: Over 1.5 threes</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44888" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/44888">Porzingis</a> is an excellent shooting big. He connected on 37.5% of his 3-point looks this season. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/1" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/1">Celtics</a> need him attempting - and making - threes in this series so that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53731" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/53731">Bam Adebayo</a> is dragged away from the rim.</p><p>If Porzingis is knocking down outside shots, Adebayo has to guard him on the perimeter. Plus, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/13" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/13">Heat</a> play a decent amount of zone, which usually leads to more 3-pointers from the offense.</p><p>Expect this to be the case in Game 4 and Porzingis to hit at least two threes.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -120</p><h3>Pelicans team total: Under 100.5 points</h3><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/24" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/24">Pelicans</a> have yet to break 93 points through three games of their series against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/28" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/28">Thunder</a>, who have the top-rated defense in the playoffs.</p><p>New Orleans is feeling the absence of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69536" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/69536">Zion Willamson</a> and lacks a consistent creator and reliable top option offensively.</p><p>If the Pelicans compete - they're 4.5-point home underdogs - in a must-win game to keep their season alive, it'll be because of their defensive tenacity that limits the Thunder's explosive offense.</p><p>It's hard to imagine New Orleans' lackluster and unimaginative offense breaking 100 points.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -120</p><h3>Jalen Williams: Over 10.5 rebounds and assists</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102799" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/102799">Jalen Williams</a> is the perfect complement to MVP candidate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a>.</p><p>Williams wasn't much of a playmaker or rebounder throughout the year, but he's averaging 12.3 combined rebounds and assists through three games and recorded at least 11 in each. Oddsmakers don't expect that to continue, but it's worth a bet at plus-money.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: +110</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

Los Angeles, CA - April 27: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets rebounds over Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers in the first half of game 4 of a first round NBA playoff basketball game at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on Saturday, April 27, 2024.

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Can Lakers, Pelicans stay alive?

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>The first round of the NBA players has had everything fans could want, including chaotic finishes, buzzer-beaters, high intensity, and simmering tension.</p><p>There are another three Game 3s on Friday. Here are our four best bets for the action.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2433129">Timberwolves @ Suns (-4.5, O/U 207.5)</a></h3><p>It's a trendy pick to take the team down 2-0 when it returns home if the two squads are evenly matched. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/4" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/4">Sixers</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/14" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/14">Magic</a> covered their spread at home after trailing 2-0 in the series. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/18" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/18">Lakers</a> didn't, but the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/26" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/26">Nuggets</a> are far superior and that series was over before it started given how Denver has dominated Los Angeles in recent history.</p><p>Friday's contest between the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/27" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/27">Timberwolves</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/19" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/19">Suns</a> will follow the trend, as the desperate Suns earn a win at home. </p><p>Role players typically perform better at home in the playoffs, and the T-Wolves' role players carried them to a Game 2 win. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37815" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37815">Devin Booker</a> have been average through two games. Minnesota's defensive presence has contributed to that, but there will be more urgency from those two stars Friday.</p><p>Phoenix lacks depth and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37618" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37618">Grayson Allen</a> is questionable for Friday's game, but the Suns' stars will carry it across the finish line.</p><p><strong>Pick</strong>: Suns -4.5</p><h3>Pascal Siakam: Under 27.5 points</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/39061" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/39061">Siakam</a> has been unstoppable for the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/9" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/9">Pacers</a>. He's second in playoff points, averaging 36.5 through two games. He's exposed the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/10" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/10">Bucks</a>' leaky defense without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> and dominated matchups against the slow-footed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/300" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/300">Brook Lopez</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30845" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/30845">Bobby Portis</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4789" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/4789">Khris Middleton</a>.</p><p>But don't expect this sustained production. The Bucks will adjust defensively by sending double teams and being more physical with the slender Siakam.</p><p>Milwaukee has limited <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> but can't win the series if it lets Siakam's scoring splurge continue. Siakam will take a step back in Game 3 with added defensive pressure.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -115</p><h3>Daniel Gafford: Under 6.5 points</h3><p>This isn't <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60087" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/60087">Gafford</a>'s series. He's been a stellar midseason addition to the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/21" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/21">Mavericks</a>, but sometimes certain playoff matchups dictate a player's postseason minutes.</p><p>The Mavs have been remarkably worse with Gafford on the floor. Dallas is getting outscored by 29.3 points per 100 possessions with Gafford on the court in the playoffs but is outscoring opponents by 2.8 points per 100 possessions when he's on the bench. He can't play in this series, which has led to a reduction in minutes. Gafford played just 14 minutes in Game 1 and nine minutes in Game 2. He's recorded three total points through two contests.</p><p>The Mavs' best lineup against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/17" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/17">Clippers</a> is a small lineup with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60967" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/60967">Maxi Kleber</a> at center. Fewer minutes for Gafford means fewer scoring opportunities.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -130</p><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2433149">Clippers @ Mavericks (-4.5, O/U 212.5)</a></h3><p>The Mavs had the NBA's best defensive rating over the final 15 regular-season games. That defensive intensity has carried over to the playoffs, as they held the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/17" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/17">Clippers</a> to 93 points in Game 2.</p><p>But the Clippers were reintegrating <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a> into the lineup, which seemingly messed up his and his teammates' rhythm. The Clippers' offense should regain form in Leonard's second game back.</p><p>L.A.'s defense, which struggled down the season's stretch, has also restricted the Mavs by consistently doubling <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6154" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/6154">Kyrie Irving</a> and forcing Dallas' supporting cast to make shots.</p><p>Doncic has been unusually inefficient and is missing shots he typically makes. I wouldn't expect that to last, especially as the Mavs return home.</p><p>With the Clippers at full health and Doncic's shotmaking potentially opening up Dallas' offense, Game 3 could feature an offensive explosion after two defense-oriented matchups.</p><p><strong>Pick</strong>: Over 212.5</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - APRIL 23: Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns shoots the ball during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves during Round One Game Two of the 2024 NBA Playoffs on April 23, 2024 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Will the Suns turn the series around at home?

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>An NBA playoff adage says a series doesn't start until a home team loses. According to that, five of the eight first-round series have yet to begin. Home teams started 13-0 in the playoffs for the first time since 2004.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/13" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/13">Heat</a>-<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/1" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/1">Celtics</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/21" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/21">Mavs</a>-<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/17" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/17">Clippers</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/10" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/10">Bucks</a>-<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/9" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/9">Pacers</a> are the only series that split their first two games. Below, we broke down the other five series to see if there's a bet to make on a team coming back, or if the series is over.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Lakers vs. Nuggets</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pre-series Odds</th>
<th>Current Odds (implied %)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Nuggets -310</td>
<td>Nuggets -1100 (91%)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lakers +250</td>
<td>Lakers +700 (12%)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/18" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/18">Lakers</a> built a 20-point lead in Game 2, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> had 32 points, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> took over in the fourth quarter. Los Angeles must've won, right? Check again. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44995" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/44995">Jamal Murray</a>'s buzzer-beater lifted Denver over the Lakers to take a 2-0 series lead. It was L.A.'s 10th straight loss to the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/26" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/26">Nuggets</a>.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">JAMAL MURRAY REALLY DID THAT.<br><br>BUZZER-BEATER TO TAKE DOWN THE LAKERS! 🚨🚨<br><br>(🎥: <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NBA</a>)<a href="https://t.co/QQklDbSYKS">pic.twitter.com/QQklDbSYKS</a></p>— theScore Bet (@theScoreBet) <a href="https://twitter.com/theScoreBet/status/1782630913685221389?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Considering the history and stakes, it was a demoralizing loss. Sure, Los Angeles can defend homecourt and even the series over the next few days. But the Lakers outplayed the Nuggets in Game 2; L.A. shot 43% from three compared to the Nuggets' 23%. Yet Denver prevailed again. The Nuggets did what they always do: execute flawlessly in the clutch to pull out a win.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37752" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37752">D'Angelo Russell</a> drilled seven threes after a 1-for-9 showing in Game 1. James and the Lakers exposed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> in the pick-and-roll. None of it was enough.</p><p>L.A. needs to play a perfect game to win. Maybe it'll break its losing streak, but it won't earn four wins over the next five games.</p><h3>Sixers vs. Knicks</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pre-series Odds</th>
<th>Current Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Knicks -110</td>
<td> Knicks -450 (82%)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sixers -110</td>
<td> Sixers +350 (22%)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Following Game 2, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid </a>claimed the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/4" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/4">Sixers</a> are "better" than the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/3" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/3">Knicks</a>.</p><p>He's right. The Sixers are better. But the Knicks are the hungrier, grittier, tougher, and more resilient team. And those groups win playoff series. Embiid - more than most - should know talent doesn't guarantee playoff success.</p><p>When Embiid claims Philadelphia is "going to win" the series, don't believe him.</p><p>Embiid's body has failed him every postseason. His knee injury has left him hobbled, again impacting his playoff performance. </p><p>He still scored 34 points in 39 minutes in Game 2 but did the least damage in the fourth quarter, where he scored five points and grabbed zero boards.</p><p>The Sixers' rebounding efforts in Game 2 were significantly better than Game 1 against a dangerous offensive rebounding squad. However, Embiid boxing out <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30695" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/30695">Josh Hart</a> instead of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60051" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/60051">Isaiah Hartenstein</a> ultimately cost them the game.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Another angle of DiVincenzo's game-wining triple 🔥<br><br>Former Knicks legends (Carmelo Anthony, John Starks, Latrell Sprewell) were LOVING it! 🗽 <a href="https://t.co/K82ds6j2N3">pic.twitter.com/K82ds6j2N3</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1782621805154275362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Knicks' plan includes forcing Embiid to guard at the level of the screen in the pick-and-roll and attacking him at the rim. That's usually not a wise strategy against a 7-footer with a top-10 defensive rating, but it works with Embiid wounded.</p><figure class="article-segment--video"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/626171/preview.png?ts=1714057508" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/626171/animation.mp4?ts=1714057508" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/626171/animation.webm?ts=1714057508" type="video/webm"> <div>Your browser does not support the video tag.</div> </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">TNT</span></figcaption></figure><p>Philly has successfully limited <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a>. The MVP candidate's primary defenders have cut off his driving lanes, and a hoist of help defenders have closed the gaps to prevent Brunson from getting to his spots.</p><p>He's shooting 29% from the field and 16% from three, his worst two-game stretch of the season. Although the Sixers' defense has impacted his efficiency, Brunson's also missing shots he typically makes.</p><p>If Brunson heats up and the Knicks' others continuously produce, Philadelphia won't recover. </p><p>The Sixers' contributions from anyone besides Embiid and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93855" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/93855">Tyrese Maxey</a> - who's outplaying Brunson - are few and far between. If that changes, and a couple of bounces and whistles go Philly's way at home, the team can tie the series by the end of the week.</p><p>As I forecasted last week, I still believe this series will go the distance. If you think the Sixers have a chance, grab a ticket on their series spread of +2.5 (-130).</p><p>However, I wouldn't bet against the Knicks' toughness and connectivity in a Game 7 at Madison Square Garden.</p><h3>Magic vs. Cavs </h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pre-series Odds</th>
<th>Current Odds (implied %)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cavs -195</td>
<td>Cavs -700 (87%)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Magic +165</td>
<td>Magic +475 (17%)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>In case anyone forgot (we wouldn't blame you if you did), the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/7" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/7">Cavs</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/14" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/14">Magic</a> are competing for a chance to lose to the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/1" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/1">Celtics</a> in the second round.</p><p>This is a low-scoring slugfest between two great defenses. The Cavs have a competent offense led by backcourt partners <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44998" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Donovan Mitchell</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a>, as well as a deep roster.</p><p>The Magic are offensively challenged. They couldn't score consistently in the regular season, and they surely can't score against a top-10 defense. Orlando - shooting 23% from three - has an 88.5 offensive rating this series, by far the worst in the playoffs. The Pelicans have the second worst at 98.9.</p><p>Game 3's total is 200 despite both previous contests falling below 190 points.</p><p>It's hard to win without scoring, and the Magic don't have enough creators to generate clean looks. That's not changing, and neither is the direction of this series. Hopefully, you're still holding onto the Cavs series spread at -1.5, which we gave out at +125 (it's -280 now).</p><h3>Wolves vs. Suns</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pre-series Odds</th>
<th>Current Odds (implied %)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Timberwolves +110</td>
<td> Timberwolves -400 (80%)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Suns -130</td>
<td> Suns +330 (23%)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/19" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/19">Suns</a>' new ownership group is learning the value of size and depth. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/27" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/27">Timberwolves</a> outrebounded Phoenix 52-28 in Game 1. The Suns responded with a stout rebounding showing in Game 2, and they shut down Wolves stars <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a>. It didn't matter.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93891" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/93891">Jaden McDaniels</a> knotted 25 points, his third-highest total this season. He, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30615" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/30615">Rudy Gobert</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/227" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/227">Mike Conley</a> combined for 61.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37618" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37618">Grayson Allen</a> - a 3-point sniper - sprained his ankle and will likely be out for at least Game 3. Plus, the Suns rank last in bench points. Phoenix won't rally if its Big Three doesn't shine. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37815" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37815">Devin Booker</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11887" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/11887">Bradley Beal</a> combined for only 52 points in Game 2.</p><p>The Suns' stars are due for positive regression. Although the Wolves have terrific perimeter and interior defenders, it's fair to expect Phoenix's heroes to put on a cape.</p><p>Unusually dominant performances from role players typically don't translate on the road. This matchup might be too difficult for Phoenix, but it's worth backing the Suns' series spread at +2.5 (-140).</p><h3>Thunder vs. Pelicans</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pre-series Odds</th>
<th>Current Odds (implied %)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Thunder -650</td>
<td>Thunder -2000 (95%)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pelicans +440</td>
<td>Pelicans +1000 (9%)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>After brushing off the nerves of Game 1, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/28" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/28">Thunder</a> boat raced the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/24" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/24">Pelicans</a> in Game 2. For a young team that looked its age in the playoff opener, the Thunder matured like Tom Hanks in "Big."</p><p>New Orleans' defensive prowess wasn't an issue for OKC's core - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> scored 33 points, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102801" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/102801">Chet Holmgren</a> dropped 26, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102799" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/102799">Jalen Williams</a> poured in 21.</p><p>The Pelicans have solid pieces, but they don't have a reliable star without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69536" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/69536">Zion Williamson</a>. That makes it hard for them to win a playoff series.</p><p>The Thunder got an ideal first-round matchup against a team that can't take advantage of their two weaknesses: size and inexperience. OKC will easily advance in the postseason for the first time since 2016.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 22: Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks goes to the basket against Kelly Oubre Jr. #9 and Tyrese Maxey #0 of the Philadelphia 76ers during the second half in Game Two of the Eastern Conference First Round Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on April 22, 2024 in New York City. The Knicks won 104-101.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/27090618/related

NBA playoffs betting: Can any team down 2-0 come back?

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/13" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/13">Heat</a> upset the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/1" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/1">Celtics</a> as 14.5-point underdogs Wednesday night, the third-largest playoff upset since 1991, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidPurdum/status/1783315195747504538?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet">ESPN</a>.</p><p>Following that up Thursday will be a three-game slate involving three series that are at 2-0. No team has won a series after trailing 3-0, so it's fair to expect desperate play from the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/14" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/14">Magic</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/4" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/4">Sixers</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/18" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/18">Lakers</a>, all of whom are playing their first home game of the postseason.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Let's get to our three bets from the slate.</p><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2433157">Knicks @ Sixers (-4.5, O/U 202.5)</a></h3><p>This is desperation mode for the Sixers, a team with championship aspirations that could have won the first two games had a few bounces and whistles gone their way.</p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/3" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/3">Knicks</a> are the feistier, tougher, and grittier group, but the Sixers should display more toughness with their season on the line. Plus, after the NBA admitted to officiating mistakes in the final seconds of Game 2, expect Philadelphia to have a friendly whistle at home. Fair or not, that's how these things go in the NBA playoffs.</p><p>The Sixers are successfully hampering <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a>'s ability to find his spots by cutting off driving lanes, and they improved their rebounding efforts after an embarrassing display on the glass in Game 1.</p><p>Although the "Villanova Knicks" have experience playing at Wells Fargo Center, I don't expect New York's role players to shoot as well on the road.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a> is hurt and needs to muster enough energy to compete for 40 minutes, but he and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93855" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/93855">Tyrese Maxey</a> should receive more help from role players at home, leading to a Sixers win.</p><p><strong>Pick</strong>: Sixers -4.5</p><h3>Nicolas Batum: Over 4.5 points</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/412" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/412">Batum</a> was the Sixers' unsung hero when they escaped the Heat in the play-in game. But he's had a miniscule impact offensively against the Knicks.</p><p>The Sixers need him to contribute, especially because the Knicks' supporting cast has been exceptional. Secondary players usually shoot better at home than on the road in the postseason, and Batum is defending Brunson well in stretches, so minutes won't be an issue. If Batum's looking to shoot on the catch, he should fire enough threes to soar past this total.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -130 (look for alt lines over 5.5, 6.5 at plus money)</p><h3>Austin Reaves: Over 13.5 points</h3><p>The first two games between the Lakers and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/26" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/26">Nuggets</a> came down to the role players more than the stars. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> are terrific and arguably outplaying <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44995" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/44995">Jamal Murray</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a>, but the secondary players are giving Denver a huge advantage.</p><p>The Lakers aren't receiving enough contribution beyond James and Davis. That starts with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96101" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/96101">Reaves</a>, who's not producing sufficiently and struggling from 3-point range. He's shooting 27% from three in the playoffs and has yet to reach 14 points.</p><p>Darvin Ham and his staff should find more ways to get Reaves clean looks. In Game 2, Davis and James each scored more than 25, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37752" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37752">D'Angelo Russell</a> drilled seven triples. Yet the Lakers failed to break 100 points. Reaves will be a key factor in the Lakers' offense Thursday night.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -120</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/27090063/related

Will the Sixers gain ground in Game 3 in Philly? 

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>Wednesday night presents a doubleheader of Game 2s between the No. 1 and No. 8 seeds in each conference. We don't have any side bets, but we broke down three player props to target.</p><h3>Josh Giddey: Under 20.5 PRA</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96131" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/96131">Giddey</a>'s a serviceable player, but he's at his best with the ball in his hands as a downhill driver and creating for teammates. That doesn't happen for Giddey too frequently playing alongside the dominant on-ball duo of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102799" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/102799">Jalen Williams</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Giddey could be a perfect complement to that pairing if he was a reliable 3-point shooter. However, he's not. Giddey shot 33% from three this season and was 0-for-2 in Game 1 against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/24" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/24">Pelicans</a>.</p><p>New Orleans can sag off of Giddey if he's not making threes, which creates challenges for the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/28" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/28">Thunder</a>'s offense. Giddey only played 20 minutes in Game 1. Unless he gets hot from deep early, expect a decreased workload for Giddey in this series, leading to disappointing stat lines.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -105</p><h3>Duncan Robinson: Over 1.5 threes</h3><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/13" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/13">Heat</a> have no chance of beating the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/1" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/1">Celtics</a> in a series, but they need to generate more offense to compete.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45013" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/45013">Robinson</a> has dealt with various injuries this season. After a two-week absence, he returned to the lineup for Game 1 against the Celtics but only played 15 minutes. The Heat have reduced his playoff minutes in the past because he's a defensive liability.</p><p>Miami needs his shooting to keep pace with Boston's historically dominant offense. Robinson should earn more minutes Wednesday night, leading to more threes.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -102</p><h3>Jonas Valanciunas: Over 11.5 rebounds</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11051" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/11051">Valanciunas</a> made his presence felt in 29 minutes against the Thunder in Game 1, finishing with 13 points and 20 rebounds.</p><p>Oklahoma City's primary weakness is its size. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102801" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/102801">Chet Holmgren</a> is a great rim-protector in help situations, but stronger bigs push him around. The Thunder have no center depth behind Holmgren.</p><p>The Thunder had the NBA's third-worst rebounding percentage during the regular season. The Pelicans' path to victory is controlling the glass. Valanciunas might not grab 20 rebounds in Game 2, but he should play even more minutes and have plenty of chances for boards.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -102</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><div> </div>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - APRIL 21: Chet Holmgren #7 of the Oklahoma City Thunder defends against Jonas Valanciunas #17 of the New Orleans Pelicans during the first half in game one of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs at the Paycom Center on April 21, 2024 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/27080784/related

Player props to target for Wednesday's NBA playoff slate

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>One of the greatest playoff doubleheaders in recent memory occurred Monday night. The chaos in the final minutes of the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/3" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/3">Knicks</a>' win over the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/4" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/4">Sixers</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44995" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/44995">Jamal Murray</a>'s game-winner against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/18" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/18">Lakers</a> capped off a wild night in the Association. Oh, and the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/7" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/7">Cavs</a> defeated the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/14" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/14">Magic</a> in another slugfest.</p><p>Hopefully, Tuesday's results are just as exciting. Here are three bets to target.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2433148">Mavs @ Clippers (+2.5, O/U 216)</a></h3><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/21" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/21">Mavs</a> were the NBA's hottest team to close the regular season. But their stars sat the last two games, and Dallas' full team hadn't played together in 10 days when it opened the playoffs in Los Angeles on Sunday.</p><p>Whether it was rust or an intensity level that didn't meet the moment, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/17" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/17">Clippers</a> dominated the Mavs in the first half and never relinquished their lead. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6154" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/6154">Kyrie Irving</a> did their part, scoring 33 and 31, respectively. Dallas' supporting cast, which has been dependable all season, must not have known that the playoffs started. The Mavs' other three starters combined for 14 points. Dallas players not named Doncic or Irving scored 33 combined.</p><p>It's challenging to win a playoff game with such poor complementary production, especially when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52287" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/52287">Ivica Zubac</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/1889" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/1889">Paul George</a> each score more than 20. Dallas will play desperate Tuesday night in a crucial spot, and it's fair to expect more from Doncic and Irving's teammates.</p><p>It seems unlikely <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a> will play considering he's yet to practice with contact. Back the road favorites in Los Angeles.</p><p><strong>Pick</strong>: Mavs -2.5</p><h3>Luka Doncic: Over 33.5 points</h3><p>Doncic has been labeled the Clippers killer after some monstrous playoff performances against Los Angeles despite never actually defeating the Clippers in a series.</p><p>The MVP candidate struggled in Game 1 and still scored 33 points. He was 42% from the field and 33% from three, well below his season averages. </p><p>The Clippers threw a ton of bodies at Doncic, and Zubac held his own when switched onto the Slovenian. However, Doncic had some uncharacteristic misses.</p><p>The Mavs' supporting cast has to have an impact to defeat the Clippers, but Dallas also needs Doncic to be the superstar that he is. He notched 33 points with poor efficiency. Now, imagine his scoring total on a night where he's shooting well.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -112</p><h3>Jusuf Nurkic: Under 19.5 points and rebounds</h3><p>There's a clear size discrepancy between the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/19" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/19">Suns</a> and the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/27" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/27">Timberwolves</a>. Phoenix relies on finesse and mid-range shooting, while the Wolves have trees waiting in the paint. As a result, Minnesota outrebounded the Suns 52-28 in its 120-95 pummeling over Phoenix.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37599" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37599">Nurkic</a> had nine points and four rebounds in 27 minutes. He's no match for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30615" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/30615">Rudy Gobert</a>. The Suns have to play Nurkic because they're thin at center, but they could implement small lineups with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant </a>at center to try to force Gobert off the floor.</p><p>That would further reduce Nurkic's minutes. I expect Nurkic to have a bounce-back game but don't see an avenue for him to contribute to the Suns' scoring. Phoenix needs him to be more physical on the glass, but it's not easy to rack up boards against towering bigs.</p><p>(Side note: If you think Game 1 was a fluke, there's some value on the Suns to win this series at +215.)</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -115</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

Dallas Mavericks' Luka Doncic R shoots against Los Angeles Clippers' Terance Mann during the NBA first-round playoff match between Los Angeles Clippers and Dallas Mavericks in Los Angeles, the United States, April 21, 2024.

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Look for Mavs to rebound after sluggish playoff start

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>The opening weekend of the NBA playoffs featured some duds. Game 1 blowouts created less excitement for an otherwise intriguing opening round. Home teams went 8-0 in Game 1 for the first time since 2013.</p><p>There are three Game 2s on tap for Monday night. Let's get to our best bets.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2433154">76ers @ Knicks (-6, O/U 207.5)</a></h3><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/4" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/4">76ers</a> got off to an encouraging start in Game 1 before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a>'s injury on a marvelous dunk sent him to the locker room. Embiid returned but wasn't himself. The reigning MVP was already nursing a knee injury entering the series.</p><p>Embiid is questionable for Monday and will likely play, but he isn't healthy. Still, Embiid at 70% might be enough to win Game 2.</p><p>Game 1 boiled down to the Sixers' dominance with Embiid on the floor and incompetence with him off it. Philadelphia was plus-14 with Embiid on the court and minus-21 without him. He played 37 minutes.</p><p>Embiid has to play at least 40 minutes a night for the 76ers to win this series. It may be challenging given his nagging injury, but Philadelphia can't survive significant Embiid-less minutes.</p><p>The Sixers' game plan allowed the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/3" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/3">Knicks</a>' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30695" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/30695">Josh Hart</a> - a 31% 3-point shooter - to launch triples from deep. Philadelphia tried to hide a hobbled Embiid on Hart down the stretch. Hart drained four threes, the most he's made this season. Nick Nurse's risk outweighed the reward in Game 1, but it's a bet the head coach is likely willing to make again.</p><p>New York shot 45.7% from three, uncharacteristically high for a 36.9% 3-point shooting team. That's hard to replicate even though <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a> struggled, going 1-for-6 from deep (8-for-26 overall plus five turnovers).</p><p>The Knicks play with the NBA's slowest pace. However, they're the league's best offensive rebounding team, which leads to extra possessions.</p><p>The Knicks had a 51.8% offensive rebounding rate against the Sixers, the third highest by any team in a game this season. Philly must prioritize the glass, even if that means playing two-big lineups with Embiid and<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93858" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/93858"> Paul Reed</a>.</p><p>This is a tactical matchup as the Knicks try to exploit Embiid's injury and the Sixers attempt to maneuver with a less-than-100% center. After both teams had a chance to go to their corners and recalibrate, Round 2 will go to the 76ers.</p><p><strong>Pick</strong>: Sixers +6</p><h3>Jalen Brunson: Over 30.5 points</h3><p>Brunson shot 30% from the field and 16% from three in Game 1. Those splits are significantly lower than his 47% and 40% season averages, but that's playoff basketball. The physicality, added intensity, and more focused game plans make it challenging for stars. But this isn't Brunson's first playoff rodeo; he's excelled in previous postseasons.</p><p>Despite the poor shooting night and few free-throw attempts, Brunson still finished with 22 points. Expect him to rebound in Game 2, especially as the Knicks target Embiid in the pick-and-roll.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -125</p><h3>Evan Mobley: Under 14.5 points</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96054" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Mobley</a> has become a willing shooter but not a reliable one. Since returning from injury in late January, he's averaging more than 1.5 3-point attempts per game after rarely attempting them in the first few months.</p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/7" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/7">Cavaliers</a> have encouraged Mobley to shoot. Cleveland plays a two-big lineup with Mobley and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53393" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/53393">Jarrett Allen</a>; if Mobley isn't a shooting threat, it creates clumsy spacing for Cleveland's guards to operate as defenses pack the paint.</p><p>Mobley has connected on threes at a surprisingly high rate, opening up the Cavs' offense. He drilled two in Game 1 against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/14" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/14">Magic</a>, but that's unusual. He finished with 16 points. The threat of Mobley's shooting should lead to the Magic more closely contesting his shots. Don't expect multiple 3-pointers again.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -110</p><h3>Lakers team total: Over 108.5 points</h3><p>Game 1 between the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/18" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/18">Lakers</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/26" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/26">Nuggets</a> followed the same script it always does. The contest was competitive to start before the Nuggets' offensive execution allowed them to pull away in the second half.</p><p>Game 2 might follow a similar pattern, but the Lakers' offense should have more success. The Nuggets' defense isn't anything extraordinary. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> generated virtually any look they wanted in Game 1 before James ran out of gas.</p><p>Los Angeles' supporting cast failed to help. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96101" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/96101">Austin Reaves</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53163" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/53163">Rui Hachimura</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37752" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37752">D'Angelo Russell</a> combined for 33 points. The Lakers shot 27% from three and still scored 103 points. L.A. doesn't parade in threes but typically connects on 37% of its deep looks. Expect more to fall and the Lakers to surpass 108 points.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -110</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 20: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers and Mitchell Robinson #23 of the New York Knicks fight for position during the second half in game one of the Eastern Conference First Round Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on April 20, 2024 in New York City. The New York Knicks defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 111-104.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/27063303/related

Will Embiid's Sixers even series in Game 2?

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>The NBA playoffs officially tip off Saturday. Tread lightly when betting on Game 1.</p><p>Many people, including myself, theorize about certain tactics teams might implement and which players are due for a good or bad series. But those prognostications usually don't come true in Game 1, if ever.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The first game of the series is a feeler for both teams. The lineup adjustments and tactical edges that might hurt or help a player usually come later. So, my advice is to not go overboard for Game 1.</p><p>If you haven't already, check out our series previews and picks for the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2895612" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2895612">East</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2893978" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2893978">West</a>. Below, you can find our best bets for Saturday's slate and one bet for Sunday.</p><h3>Cavs 1st-quarter spread: -1</h3><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/7" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/7">Cavs</a> open their series against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/14" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/14">Magic</a> in Cleveland. Playing at home in front of an energetic crowd should be an advantage throughout the game, particularly in the opening quarter.</p><p>The Magic can't score consistently, but the first quarter is their least productive. Orlando's offensive rating is significantly worse in the first quarter compared to the other three. </p><p>The Magic are minus-3.7 per 100 possessions in the first quarter, the NBA's ninth-worst mark. The Cavs are plus-4 per 100 possessions in the opening frame, the league's eighth-best rating.</p><p>Cleveland should pounce on a vulnerable first-quarter team to open the playoffs.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -110</p><h3>Devin Booker: Over 24.5 points</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37815" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37815">Booker </a>is made for the playoffs. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/27" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/27">Timberwolves</a> have elite perimeter defenders, but Booker's skill trumps great defense. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/19" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/19">Suns</a> run a ton of pick-and-roll featuring Booker as the ball-handler. Minnesota plays drop coverage, which allows for pull-up jumpers, Booker's specialty.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> has acknowledged this is Booker's team. If the Suns advance past the first round, Booker will take them there. He averaged 33.7 points in 11 playoff games last year and scored at least 25 points in 10 of those.</p><p>Minnesota is a different beast defensively, but Booker finds his points regardless.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -105</p><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2433157">76ers @ Knicks (-3, O/U 209) </a></h3><p>As I wrote in the series <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2895612" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2895612">preview</a>, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/3" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/3">Knicks</a>-<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/4" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/4">76ers</a> duel is between two defensively sound, physical groups. That means everyone should anticipate low scores.</p><p>Both teams have elite defenses and the Knicks' offense excels when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a>, who leads the league in dribbles, controls the pace. New York plays with the league's slowest pace. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a>'s conditioning to start the series is a concern, so the Sixers should want a slower pace for the big man's sake.</p><p>The atmosphere at Madison Square Garden will be electric and could rattle the Sixers' offense to start. The Knicks could be slightly rusty after six days off. Just under 55% of Knicks games went under the total this season.</p><p>A physical series where rebounding is paramount typically produces low-scoring results. That'll be the case in Game 1.</p><p><strong>Pick</strong>: Under 209</p><h3>Donte DiVincenzo: Under 17.5 points</h3><p>While the stars - Embiid, Brunson, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93855" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/93855">Tyrese Maxey</a> - steal the headlines, this series will likely come down to role players. For the most part, superstars earn their points regardless of defensive coverages. Limiting the opposition's other strengths is key.</p><p>The 76ers' game plan will include limiting <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45225" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/45225">DiVincenzo</a>'s 3-point looks. He's been phenomenal in a larger role for the Knicks and solidified his place as one of the league's best long-range shooters.</p><p>But playoff defense is different from regular-season defense. DiVincenzo will experience more physicality coming off screens and see harder closeouts on his shots. The Knicks will have a hard time winning if DiVincenzo struggles, especially since <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30695" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/30695">Josh Hart</a> hasn't been much of a scoring or shooting threat. The Sixers will successfully limit DiVincenzo in Game 1.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -110</p><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2433125">Pacers @ Bucks (+1, O/U 231.5)</a></h3><p><em>Game time: Sunday 7:10 p.m.</em></p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> isn't playing in Game 1, and the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/10" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/10">Bucks</a> don't have enough other pieces to carry the scoring load. Although <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> could torch the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/9" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/9">Pacers</a>' suspect perimeter defenders, he's been inefficient and looked a step slow throughout the season.</p><p>The Pacers have a fast-paced style that Milwaukee struggled against during the regular season. The Bucks were 3-4 without Antetokounmpo and are minus-4.6 per 100 possessions with him on the bench. I don't see how Milwaukee can keep pace with Indiana's offense.</p><p><strong>Pick</strong>: Pacers -1</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 05: Naz Reid #11 and Jaden McDaniels #3 of the Minnesota Timberwolves pressure Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns during the game at Footprint Center on April 05, 2024 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Timberwolves 97-87.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/27040953/related

NBA playoffs opening day best bets

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>We previewed the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2893978" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2893978">Western Conference playoffs</a> Thursday, which means the East is up next. </p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/1" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/1">Celtics</a> are still waiting to find out if they play the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/13" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/13">Heat</a> or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/6" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/6">Bulls</a>, so we're providing analysis and picks for the other three East series.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>(2) Knicks vs. (7) Sixers</h3><p><em>Series spread: Knicks -110/Sixers -110</em></p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/3" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/3">Knicks</a>' reward for earning the 2-seed is an opening-round matchup against one of the NBA's best teams. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/4" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/4">Sixers</a> are no ordinary 7-seed. Philadelphia fell to the bottom of the standings because of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a>'s two-month absence. With Embiid, the Sixers are 32-8 and have the league's second-best net rating.</p><p>The Knicks remarkably withstood extended absences from three of their five starters and continued to win because of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a>'s MVP-caliber campaign.</p><p>Philly's overall talent is better than New York's. But that doesn't guarantee the 76ers anything. The Knicks' physical, tough-minded, defensive-oriented approach is a nightmare for opposing offenses. New York has the personnel to play big and small lineups with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46480" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/46480">OG Anunoby</a>'s ability to guard any position.</p><p>The Knicks' heliocentric offensive approach involves constant ball screens for Brunson. New York has the highest pick-and-roll frequency among playoff teams. Brunson has one of the league's highest usage rates but is still super efficient.</p><p>The Sixers need to get creative with their coverages, including blitzing Brunson in the pick-and-roll to force his supporting cast to make plays. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30695" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/30695">Josh Hart</a>'s an excellent slasher, passer, and rebounder, but he needs to make shots for the Knicks to win. Hart connected on just 31% of his threes this season. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96035" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/96035">Miles McBride</a> will play a huge role in defending <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93855" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/93855">Tyrese Maxey</a>. He'll also get open looks from three playing alongside Brunson and sharpshooter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45225" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/45225">Donte DiVincenzo</a>.</p><p>Embiid's health and conditioning will determine this series. Despite the Knicks' defensive tenacity and size they can throw at him, the reigning MVP's unstoppable when healthy.</p><p>It's not clear if Embiid was hurt or out of shape, but he wasn't moving well for much of Philly's play-in game against Miami. He gutted it out and made crucial plays down the stretch, but the Knicks will exploit Embiid if he isn't 100%.</p><p>The Knicks' advantage will come on the offensive glass, where they generate extra possessions. New York has the NBA's best offensive rebounding percentage, while the Sixers are towards the bottom in opponent offensive rebounding percentage.</p><p>New York plays with the NBA's slowest pace, which could favor Embiid if he's fatigued. The Knicks should consider playing faster to force more movement from Embiid.</p><p>The team that withstands the most blows will win the<strong> </strong>battle of the I-95. It's impossible to question the Knicks' toughness, but the Sixers showed grit against Miami in a must-win game.</p><p>This series will go the distance. Although it'll be difficult for the Sixers to win a Game 7 at a raucous Madison Square Garden, there's enough value on Philly to win in seven to pull the trigger.</p><p><strong>Bet</strong>: Series to go 7 Games (+190), Sixers in 7 (+550)</p><h3>(3) Bucks vs. (6) Pacers</h3><p><em>Series spread: Bucks -110/Pacers -110</em></p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> is dealing with an injury in the first round for the second straight season. He's expected to miss Game 1 and his status beyond that is a mystery.</p><p>It's fair to assume Antetokounmpo will miss a large chunk of the series and won't be at full strength if he does return. But even before his injury, the<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/10" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/10"> Bucks</a> had red flags everywhere. Milwaukee went 8-12 in its last 20 games and its defense had gaping holes.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> may have a different gear in the playoffs, but he's coming off one of his worst and most inefficient regular seasons in the last few years.</p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/9" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/9">Pacers</a> defeated the Bucks four out of five times this season when Adrian Griffin was on the sideline for Milwaukee. The Bucks allowed 128.8 points per game to Indiana in those five contests.</p><p>Antetokounmpo unleashed 64 points in the Bucks' lone win. But even in Milwaukee's losses, Indiana had no answers for the Greek Freak; he averaged 42.2 points per game. But that was before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/39061" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/39061">Pascal Siakam</a> arrived in Indiana. Plus, regular-season results don't always translate to the postseason.</p><p>Antetokounmpo's impact is monumental. The Bucks have a minus-4.6 net rating with him off the floor, on par with lottery teams like the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/2" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/2">Nets</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/30" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/30">Jazz</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/5" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/5">Raptors</a>.</p><p>Although they've made strides, the Pacers are dreadful defensively, especially at the point of attack. They caught a massive break playing the Bucks without Giannis - at least to start.</p><p>The Bucks don't have enough weapons to take advantage of the Pacers' porous defense or keep scoring pace with Indiana's unstoppable offense. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4789" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/4789">Khris Middleton </a>is closer to retirement than his prime. He hasn't had a notable, injury-free two-week stretch since December.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a>'s breakout season has led Indiana to this point. However, he hasn't been the same since returning from a hamstring injury in late January. He averaged 17.3 points and 9.6 assists after the All-Star break. Before the midseason break, he poured in 21.8 points and dished 11.7 assists per game.</p><p>The Pacers need Haliburton to be a reliable creator - for himself and his teammates - against the Bucks' weak perimeter defenders. He averaged 27 points and 11 assists in five games against Milwaukee.</p><p>With Giannis, the Bucks would be favored - and likely win. But his injury appears serious. The Pacers will win if he misses more than half the series.</p><p>A Bucks season that started with unbridled optimism alongside a new point guard and coach has turned into a disaster. It'll end in the opening round for the second consecutive year.</p><p><strong>Bet</strong>: Pacers -110</p><h3>(4) Cavs vs. (5) Magic</h3><p><em>Series spread: Cavs -195/Magic +165</em></p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/14" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/14">Magic</a> are tougher and more physical than the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/7" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/7">Cavs</a>, who showcased their weakness in last year's playoffs against the Knicks. But that New York group had offensive firepower to complement its rugged defense.</p><p>The Magic have the NBA's third-best defense, but their offense is too inept to compete against Cleveland's seventh-best defense. Orlando has the league's eighth-worst offense.</p><p>Many of these games will be low-scoring, defensive battles (there's a reason the NBA scheduled some of this series on NBA TV). The Game 1 total is set at 207.5.</p><p>Cleveland could have trouble in two areas: rebounding and turnovers. Orlando's offense only survives because it's elite at grabbing offensive boards, creating more opportunities to score. The Cavs, even when they implement a two-big lineup with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53393" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/53393">Jarrett Allen</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96054" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Evan Mobley</a>, struggle to keep teams off the glass.</p><p>Another element that unlocks the Magic's offense is their ability to generate turnovers. Orlando has the second-best opponent turnover percentage and averages the second-most points off turnovers. That's bad news for the Cavs, who turn the ball over at a high rate.</p><p>The difference will be <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44998" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Donovan Mitchell</a>, the best shot-creator and shotmaker in the series. The Magic don't have the necessary backcourt scoring to win a seven-game series. Orlando might make it interesting, but its surprising playoff appearance and feel-good season will end in the opening round.</p><p><strong>Bet</strong>: Cavs -1.5 games (+125)</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

PHILADELPHIA, PA - JANUARY 5: Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks shoots the ball during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers on January 5, 2024 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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NBA Eastern Conference opening-round betting preview

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>Two teams from each conference will battle for the final playoff spot Friday.</p><p>Injuries will play a major factor in both games, taking some of the star power out of the play-in tournament's final day. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/24" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/24">Pelicans</a> star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69536" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/69536">Zion Williamson</a> is out against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/20" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/20">Kings</a>, and the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/13" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/13">Heat</a>'s <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> is out against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/6" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/6">Bulls</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Let's get to our best bet from each game.</p><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2433106">Kings @ Pelicans (+1.5, O/U 210)</a></h3><p>With Williamson out, many presume this will be an easy win for the Kings. However, oddsmakers don't see it that way.</p><p>Sacramento's inconsistent performances led it to the 9-seed. Although it showed promise against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/16" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/16">Warriors</a>, that doesn't mean it'll replicate it against the Pelicans' elite defense.</p><p>Williamson is a huge loss, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44931" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/44931">Brandon Ingram</a>'s health is a lingering question too. He's played the last two games but is seemingly on a minutes restriction. The Pelicans' offense will be fine if he can play a normal minutes load. New Orleans' offensive rating is the same whether Williamson is on the court or off, an encouraging stat in a win-or-go-home game against Sacramento's poor defense.</p><p>The Kings are dealing with injuries to two of their top six scorers - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53736" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/53736">Malik Monk</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52793" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/52793">Kevin Huerter</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102776" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/102776">Keegan Murray</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102739" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/102739">Keon Ellis</a> stepped up against the Warriors, but the Pelicans' defense is a different beast.</p><p>Sacramento is the rightful favorite, but the Pelicans could surprise people and sneak into the postseason. Instead of playing a side, let's target New Orleans' deflated team total. The Pelicans have reached at least 106 points in their last nine games and 14 of their last 15.</p><p><strong>Best bet</strong>: Pelicans team total: Over 105.5 points (-110)</p><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2433107">Bulls @ Heat (-1.5, O/U 205.5)</a></h3><p>Butler's MCL injury is concerning for the Heat. Miami's offense had to run through <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69689" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/69689">Tyler Herro</a>, whose inefficiency and turnovers killed its chances against the <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/4">Sixers</a>.</p><p>The Heat defend tenaciously and will game plan to shut down the Bulls' stars, including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69889" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/69889">Coby White</a>, who went off for 42 points against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/11" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/11">Hawks</a>' embarrassing defense in the first play-in game.</p><p>The Bulls are an elite clutch team that knows how to win close games, but I'm not taking a side. There's a Miami player to target who'll benefit from Butler's absence: second-year player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102766" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/102766">Nikola Jovic</a>.</p><p>The Heat are high on Jovic's potential. He averaged 7.7 points in under 20 minutes per game. His minutes and offensive role will inevitably increase without Butler. Jovic averaged 8.4 points in 13 contests without Butler.</p><p>Jovic has scored at least eight points in nine of the last 12 games in which he's played at least 20 minutes. Without Butler, he averaged 22.7 minutes per game.</p><p><strong>Best bet</strong>: Nikola Jovic over 7.5 points (-112)</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 11: Domantas Sabonis #10 of the Sacramento Kings shoots over a falling Herbert Jones #5 of the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half of an NBA basketball game at Golden 1 Center on April 11, 2024 in Sacramento, California.

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NBA play-in picks: How will injuries impact who earns 8-seed?

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>After years of dynasties ruling the NBA, parity finally exists in The Association. For the first time since 1977-81, there have been five different champions in the last five years.</p><p>The West was loaded this season, which led to worthy teams missing out on the playoffs. But that's created intriguing first-round matchups between - as the odds indicate - evenly matched squads.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Below, we break down three Western Conference series and give picks for each. We'll cover the fourth and final series once the Thunder have their opponent.</p><h3>(3) Timberwolves vs. (6) Suns</h3><p><em>Series odds: Timberwolves +110/Suns -130</em></p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/19" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/19">Suns</a> had the league's toughest schedule with 10 games remaining. They finished 7-3 against teams competing for playoff spots.</p><p>Phoenix's Big Three - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37815" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37815">Devin Booker</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11887" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/11887">Bradley Beal</a> - only played 41 games together. However, they've all been healthy for the last month. The Suns are 26-15 and plus-6.6 per 100 possessions with those three in the lineup. Phoenix's offensive rating is on par with the league's best when they play together.</p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/27" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/27">Timberwolves</a>' NBA-best defense carried them to their second-most wins in franchise history. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30615" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/30615">Rudy Gobert</a> is an exceptional rim-protector and Minnesota has numerous guard stoppers preventing penetration.</p><p>However, Phoenix's elite offensive firepower has ways to counteract Minnesota's D, which were showcased in its three wins over the Wolves.</p><p>The Suns have the NBA's most efficient pick-and-roll offense. Gobert's improved as a pick-and-roll defender, but he can't reliably guard in space. Minnesota's drop coverage defensive scheme is perfect for Phoenix, which shoots an abundance of pull-up jumpers and is toward the bottom of the league in paint points.</p><p>The Suns also sometimes run a small-ball lineup with Durant at center. Frank Vogel and the Suns' staff will try various tactics to keep Gobert away from the rim and eventually force him to the bench. (Look at targeting Gobert's under; his Game 1 points total is 13.5.)</p><p>The Suns averaged 118 points in three games against Minnesota - the most the Wolves allowed to an opponent that played them at least three times. Good offense trumps good defense.</p><p>The Wolves have the worst offensive rating among West play-in and playoff teams. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a> is a budding superstar, but the Wolves have few reliable shot-creators and offensive threats beyond Edwards and<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37817"> Karl-Anthony Towns</a>.</p><p>Phoenix's swarming defense gave Edwards fits. He averaged 14.3 points on 27% shooting from three and 31% from the field against the Suns, down from his usual 25 points on 35% from three and 46% from the field.</p><p>It's easier for the Suns to limit the Wolves' stars when Minny's supporting cast isn't trustworthy. Gobert is closer to a liability than a threat offensively and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93891" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/93891">Jaden McDaniels</a> is a defensive force but not a dependable shotmaker.</p><p>Phoenix's plan will force Minnesota's non-stars to beat them, and they aren't good enough to flip this series. </p><p><strong>Bet: </strong>Suns -130</p><h3>(4) Clippers vs. (5) Mavericks</h3><p><em>Series odds: Clippers +105/Mavs -125</em></p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/21" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/21">Mavs</a> ended the season as the league's hottest team, winning 18 of their last 20 games with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> in the lineup.</p><p>Doncic is unstoppable in pick-and-rolls and isolation. When defenses double him and force the ball out of his hands, he has a supporting cast capable of making sound decisions and knocking down shots.</p><p>Dallas' offense will never be a concern with Doncic and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6154" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/6154">Kyrie Irving</a> at the helm, but its defense and rebounding haunted them the first few months of the season.</p><p>But following trade deadline acquisitions and a newfound effort level, the Mavs have the NBA's best defense over the last 15 games, and are an improved rebounding group.</p><p>Meanwhile, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/17" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/17">Clippers</a> have trended in the opposite direction over the past two months after an impressive January stretch.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a>'s decline and subsequent knee issue are a concern - he hasn't played since March. Without a healthy Leonard, L.A. has no chance in this series. He's expected to play Game 1, but that doesn't mean he's fully healthy or will last the entire series.</p><p>And even if he does, the Clippers have been a mess, especially defensively. Leonard and Norm Powell are the only Clippers with any championship pedigree, so don't expect them to flip a switch. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden </a>hasn't looked like himself for the past few weeks and is also dealing with a lingering foot injury. Plus, Harden has a history of crumbling under the bright playoff lights.</p><p>Doncic versus Leonard is a heavyweight duel of clutch shotmakers, but Leonard's health will play a key role in who ends up with the belt.</p><p>Doncic relishes the chance to play the Clippers. He's averaged 33.5 points, 9.5 assists, and 8.5 rebounds per game against L.A in the playoffs (Doncic's Game 1 points prop is 31.5), although he lost both series.</p><p>The Clippers' offensive talent alone will push this series the distance; it's worth a bet for this to go seven games. And Doncic's Game 7 heroics will catapult the Mavs to the second round.</p><p><strong>Bet</strong>: Mavs (-125), Series to go 7 games (+190)</p><h3>(2) Nuggets vs. (7) Lakers</h3><p><em>Series odds: Nuggets -310/Lakers +250</em></p><p>There's a mini rivalry brewing between the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/26" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/26">Nuggets</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/18" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/18">Lakers</a>. However, a rivalry usually implies both sides are competitive, and that's not the case here: Denver's defeated L.A. eight consecutive times, including a series sweep in last year's conference finals.</p><p>Most games have been competitive, but the Nuggets - the NBA's best clutch team - always pull away late.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> is the best player in the series. He and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44995" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/44995">Jamal Murray</a> have the league's best two-man game, and Denver's overall supporting cast is superior.</p><p>This series isn't about who wins, but how many games the Lakers last:</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Series score</th>
<th> Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Nuggets 4-0</td>
<td>+500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nuggets 4-1</td>
<td>+285</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nuggets 4-2</td>
<td>+425</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nuggets 4-3</td>
<td>+340</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Motivation and revenge are on the Lakers' side, but they don't have the personnel to compete with Denver. </p><p>The Lakers will attempt to put <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30810" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/30810">Aaron Gordon</a> so Davis can serve as a floating defender and disrupt Jokic around the rim. But Gordon plays the dunker spot brilliantly and he and Jokic have developed uncanny chemistry. Jokic's court-mapping expertise breaks that defensive coverage.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> can turn back the clock for vintage performances, especially as his 3-pointer has blossomed, but he can't take over a series like he used to. The Lakers' defense, which ranks in the league's bottom half, won't have answers for the MVP and the Nuggets' top-five offense.</p><p>Given the tight finishes and variance factor, the Lakers should earn at least one win over a 12-game span going back to last season.</p><p><strong>Bet</strong>: Nuggets 4-1 (+285), Nuggets 4-2 (+425)</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

DALLAS, TEXAS - JANUARY 22: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers drives to the basket against Luka Doncic #77 of the Dallas Mavericks in the fourth quarter at American Airlines Center on January 22, 2023 in Dallas, Texas.

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NBA Western Conference opening-round betting preview

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>After the West determined its 7-seed and set up a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/24" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/24">Pelicans</a>-<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/20" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/20">Kings</a> matchup for the 8-seed, it's the East's turn to settle its standings. Let's get right into a breakdown of the matchups and our best bets.</p><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2433103">Heat @ Sixers (-5.5, O/U 207.5)</a></h3><p><strong>Best bet: Sixers -5.5</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Don't fall for the illusion of "Heat Culture" and "Playoff Jimmy." Last year's unprecedented, fluky run was improbable and won't be replicated. Erik Spoelstra might be the NBA's best coach, but bad teams don't suddenly become good in April. Their run to the NBA Finals as the No. 8 seed was an anomaly.</p><p>Miami's discombobulated offense ranks in the bottom third of the league and never found a rhythm due to various injuries to key contributors. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> coasts during the regular season and flips a switch for the playoffs, but it won't be enough. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52639" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/52639">Max Strus</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/38557" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/38557">Gabe Vincent</a> are gone, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37653" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37653">Caleb Martin</a> won't transform into <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> this year.</p><p>A well-coached group can win one game, so the Heat are a threat to beat the Sixers, but Philadelphia has a claim as the league's second-best team when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a> is healthy. The Sixers are 31-8 and plus-10.3 per 100 possessions with Embiid.</p><p>Although he sat on Sunday, Embiid should be available in a must-win game as both units look to avoid Boston in the opening round. If Embiid moves gingerly, the Heat will exploit that and could leave Philadelphia with a win.</p><p>But don't count on that. The Sixers are far superior to the dysfunctional Heat.</p><h3>Tyrese Maxey: Over 23.5 points</h3><p>The gravity of Embiid, who commands as much defensive attention as anyone in the league, creates openings for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93855" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/93855">Maxey</a> to operate. Maxey and Embiid's lethal pick-and-roll combination allows the former to knock down pull-up threes like this:</p><figure class="article-segment--video"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625045/preview.png?ts=1713306214" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625045/animation.mp4?ts=1713306214" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625045/animation.webm?ts=1713306214" type="video/webm"> <div>Your browser does not support the video tag.</div> </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NBC Sports Philadelphia</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Heat have a top-five defense, so, while Embiid should score at least 30 points, Philadelphia needs Maxey to be a productive counterpart to outlast them. This is Maxey's first playoff game as the secondary option, but he's made for the moment.</p><p>Maxey succeeds against Miami's defense, evidenced by a 37-point outing two weeks ago. He dropped 30 against Miami two other times, too.</p><p>The Heat may have a different defensive approach in this crucial matchup, but blitzing Maxey isn't an option when he effectively finds Embiid in the short roll.</p><p>This line is too low for an All-Star who averages just under 26 points per game.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -115</p><h3>Tyler Herro: Over 29.5 PRA</h3><p>Herro is the Heat's most dependable option on a team where offensive production is often scarce. He missed time with various injuries but returned in early April and is back to playing a normal load of minutes.</p><p>The Sixers employ some suspect perimeter defenders, which makes it easy for Herro to earn buckets. In two games against Philadelphia, he averaged 35 combined points, rebounds, and assists.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -110</p><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2433105">(10) Hawks @ (9) Bulls (-3, O/U 222.5)</a></h3><p><strong>Best bet: Bulls -3</strong></p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/6" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/6">Bulls</a> aren't an offensive juggernaut, but they have enough weapons to torch Atlanta's horrid perimeter defense. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/11" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/11">Hawks</a> have the league's fourth-worst defensive rating.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60633" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/60633">Trae Young </a>returned last week, but Atlanta held its own without him, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46143" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/46143">Dejounte Murray</a> shined as the primary option. There's an argument that the Hawks are better without Young than with him, as they have virtually the same net rating with him on or off the floor, and Atlanta's defense improves significantly when Young sits on the bench.</p><p>Chicago's greatest advantage is in the clutch (defined by a game within five points in the final five minutes). The Bulls have the most clutch wins and are plus-23.5 per 100 possessions in such situations, the league's second-best mark behind the<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/26" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/26"> Nuggets</a>. Furthermore, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/470" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/470">DeMar DeRozan</a> has the NBA's most clutch points. He and the Bulls' crunch-time offense carried a mediocre group to the ninth seed.</p><p>The Hawks, on the other hand, are the league's fifth-worst clutch unit. If this game is close in the waning minutes, Chicago will pull away and keep its season alive.</p><h3>Coby White: Over 19.5 points</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69889" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/69889">Coby White</a> deserves consideration for the Most Improved Player award. He's a top option for the Bulls, who dealt with various injuries to guards.</p><p>White scored 22, 20, and 19 in his three meetings against the Hawks, whose defense struggles at the point of attack. He shot 15% from three in those games, an uncharacteristically low percentage for a player shooting 37% from deep on the season.</p><p>But White's capable of an offensive explosion if he connects on those threes.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -120</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

MIAMI, FL - APRIL 4: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers and Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat embrace after the game on April 4, 2024 at Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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East play-in picks: Look for Sixers to earn date with Knicks

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>Every team has completed 82 games, but there are still playoff matchups to determine. The play-in tournament creates intriguing storylines and potentially thrilling games as four teams fight for the final two spots in each conference.</p><p>First up is the West. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/18" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/18">Lakers</a> and<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/24" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/24"> Pelicans</a> will play for the 7-seed, while the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/16" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/16">Warriors</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/20" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/20">Kings </a>face off in a win-or-go-home scenario.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2433102">(8) Lakers @ (7) Pelicans (-1, O/U 224.5)</a></h3><p><strong>Best bet: Over 224.5 points</strong></p><p>The Lakers beat the Pelicans in three out of four meetings and had a 25.7-point average margin of victory in those three wins. L.A. has looked better than a play-in team over the last week. It won 11 of its past 14 games and has a top-five offense during that stretch.</p><p>Although the Pelicans' defense has carried them this season, the Lakers' size advantage has allowed L.A. to dominate inside.</p><p>Instead of taking a side, let's focus on the total. Despite improvement, the Lakers have an uninspiring defense, but their offense can exploit New Orleans' stout defense. Their four previous matchups averaged 238 total points. The defensive intensity will turn up a notch, but the total score should surpass 225.</p><h3>Zion Williamson: Under 6.5 rebounds </h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69536" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/69536">Williamson</a> has been a different player since his poor effort in the In-Season Tournament semifinals against the Lakers in December. Williamson is a reliable downhill driver, an underrated passer, and a willing defender.</p><p>However, his rebounding responsibilities have decreased. Williamson's averaging a career-low 5.8 rebounds per game, a surprisingly low number for a player of his strength and size. The former No. 1 pick has recorded fewer than seven rebounds in seven of his last 11 games. Williamson averaged 5.8 boards against L.A. this season.</p><p>After struggles on the glass to start the season, the Lakers are the league's sixth-best rebounding team over the last 15 games.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: +102</p><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2433104">(10) Warriors @ (9) Kings (+2.5, 224.5)</a></h3><p><strong>Best bet: Warriors -2.5 and Warriors team total over 113.5</strong></p><p>The Warriors and Kings split the season series (2-2), and three of their four contests were decided by one point. Last season, the Warriors defeated the Kings in a thrilling seven-game first-round series.</p><p>After earning the No. 3 seed in the 2022-23 campaign, the Kings took a step back this season. Last year's historically great offense became average as offensive efficiency increased across the league.</p><p>Now, the Kings will fight for a spot in the postseason without two of their top six scorers. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52793" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/52793">Kevin Huerter</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53736" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/53736">Malik Monk</a> are out, wounding the Kings' scoring depth and eliminating two 3-point threats who space the floor.</p><p>Their absence has hurt <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/38429" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/38429">Domantas Sabonis</a>, whose scoring has decreased over the last month.</p><p>During last year's series, the Warriors sagged off Sabonis and forced him to become a shooter, a role he was uncomfortable in. Sabonis is a more willing shooter this year, but he's still not great at it. He's shot under 30% from three over the last two months.</p><p>As eye-popping as Sabonis' nightly box-score stats are, he's a defensive liability. The Kings have the league's best defensive rating when Sabonis is off the floor and rank in the bottom third when he's on the floor. The Warriors will exploit his inability to protect the rim, just like they did in 2023.</p><p>The Kings have the second-worst opponent 3-point percentage. That's a problem against the best shooting backcourt in NBA history and a group that's second in the league in 3-point makes.</p><p>Sacramento allows threes like the one below, where the Warriors run an inverted pick-and-roll and foolishly double up on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a> on the drive. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53733" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/53733">De'Aaron Fox</a> tries to rush out to<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/148"> Steph Curry</a> but is caught ball watching (a cardinal sin when guarding the all-time 3-point leader). Curry runs to space and Green finds him:</p><figure class="article-segment--video"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/624884/preview.png?ts=1713212005" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/624884/animation.mp4?ts=1713212005" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/624884/animation.webm?ts=1713212005" type="video/webm"> <div>Your browser does not support the video tag.</div> </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">TNT</span></figcaption></figure><p>One of the Warriors' weaknesses is that they have the NBA's second-worst free-throw rate. But the Kings won't have an advantage; Sacramento has the third-worst opponent free-throw rate, meaning they send teams to the charity stripe frequently. Sacramento also commits the seventh-most fouls per game.</p><p>Everything points to Golden State using its experience to outlast its newfound rival in another high-stakes game.</p><h3>Steph Curry: Over 34.5 points and assists</h3><p>There are few players you can trust more in a win-or-go-home spot than Curry. The four-time champion and two-time MVP is a cold-blooded, baby-faced assassin. He'll assuredly show up with his season on the line against a suspect defense.</p><p>As previously noted, the Kings allow threes at a high clip. What does Curry do better than anyone? Splash threes. He's as good off the ball as he is with it, so even if Sacramento's defense keys in on him, Curry will find openings through cuts and teammates' screens.</p><p>Curry reached at least 35 combined points and assists in three out of four games against the Kings this season. He averaged 38.6 combined points and assists in last year's playoff series.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -102</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - JANUARY 25: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors rebounds the ball during the game against the Sacramento Kings on January 25, 2024 at Chase Center in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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West play-in picks: Can the Warriors keep their season alive?

<p><em>Find year-round coverage of betting news and insights for all sports by visiting our <a href="thescore:///exclusives/1">Betting section</a> and subscribing to push notifications.</em></p><p>The entire NBA is in action on the penultimate night of regular-season games Friday. Eight of the 15 games feature double-digit point spreads, but there are still many meaningful contests in each conference that could determine seeding.</p><p>Here are our four best bets. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2419639">Magic @ Sixers (-7.5, O/U 212)</a></h3><p>This game will have massive seeding implications in the East. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/14" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/14">Magic</a> are currently the fifth seed and have a 1.5-game lead over the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/4" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/4">Sixers</a>, the seventh seed. Philadelphia is one game back of the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/9" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/9">Pacers</a>.</p><p>The Sixers want to escape the play-in tournament. They have to win out and need favorable results elsewhere to do so.</p><p>Philadelphia has won six straight and hasn't lost since <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a>'s return. He may not be completely healthy, but he's still dominating opponents.</p><p>The Magic have lost three of their last four and have players dealing with injuries, including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96086" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/96086">Franz Wagner</a>, who missed the past two games and is questionable against Philadelphia.</p><p>The Sixers are more talented and are desperate to close the season with two wins.</p><p><strong>Pick</strong>: Sixers -7.5</p><h3><a href="thescore:///nba/events/2419650">Pelicans @ Warriors (-4.5, O/U 220)</a></h3><p>This is a crucial game for the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/16" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/16">Warriors</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/24" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/24">Pelicans</a>. New Orleans wants to avoid the play-in and remain the No. 6 seed, while Golden State will attempt to pass the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/18" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/18">Lakers </a>and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/20" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/20">Kings</a> in the standings.</p><p>The Pelicans earned a much-needed win over the Kings on Thursday night and then traveled to the Bay Area following the game.</p><p>The Warriors faced a mediocre <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/29" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/29">Blazers</a> team Thursday night and sat <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5334" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/5334">Klay Thompson</a>, who are expected to play versus the Pelicans. Two of the Warriors' key contributors will be fully rested.</p><p>Golden State is in playoff form, winning nine of its last 10 games.</p><p><strong>Pick</strong>: Warriors -4.5</p><h3>Bucks team total: Under 104.5 points</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> is out for the rest of the regular season, but the injury bug doesn't stop there for the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/10" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/10">Bucks</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> is listed as doubtful against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/28" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/28">Thunder </a>due to adductor soreness. </p><p>Without Lillard and Antetokounmpo, the Bucks don't have any trustworthy offensive generators or shot-creators. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4789" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/4789">Khris Middleton</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/300" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/300">Brook Lopez</a> are also listed as questionable.</p><p>The Thunder have the NBA's fourth-best defense and are still competing for a top seed in the West. Oklahoma City won't take its foot off the gas as a 15-point favorite. It's hard to envision the injury-riddled Bucks breaking 100 points.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -120</p><h3>Jusuf Nurkic: Over 15.5 rebounds and assists </h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37599" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/players/37599">Nurkic</a> doesn't provide much to the scoring column for the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/19" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/teams/19">Suns</a>, but he does fill the stat sheet in other categories.</p><p>He's been a dominant rebounder over the last two months. He's also become a better passer, which has led to more assists in the past few weeks. He's averaging 21 combined rebounds and assists this month, and he's reached at least 16 in his last five games.</p><p><strong>Odds</strong>: -130</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 9: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers dribbles the ball during the game against the Detroit Pistons on April 9, 2024 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Can Sixers inch closer to avoiding play-in?

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