The Scout: Thursday NBA Best Bets

Posted on February 10, 2021February 10, 2021 | Posted by The Scout

Atlanta Hawks @ Dallas Mavericks

The Mavericks (11-14) have won two straight (coming off six straight losses) and are at home to the 11-12 Hawks who remain on the fringe of playoff contention in the East.

Dallas had the number one offense in the league last season but have failed to come close to those lofty heights through these 25 games. There are signs of improvement however, and it wouldn’t surprise anyone to see this team go on a big run at some stage this season.

Luka Doncic is averaging 27 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists per game, but he simply isn’t getting enough help. Kristaps Porzingis is that help, and he’s showing glimpses of his best and should only improve into the season.

Doncic has six triple doubles for the season – the most of any player in the league. He matches up well with Atlanta and should be able to stuff the stat sheet here.

Suggested Bet: Luka Doncic to Record a Triple Double @ $3.10*

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Charlotte Hornets @ Memphis Grizzlies

This matchup sees this last year’s Rookie of the Year, Ja Morant up against this year’s favourite, LaMelo Ball. Both are already two of the most watchable players in the league.

Since getting the starting nod, LaMelo has been on a tear averaging 22 points, 6 assists and 6 rebounds per game while shooting a whopping 50% from three-point land (including seven of 12 last game against Houston).

Memphis have fallen back to earth, losing four straight games by a worrying average margin of 13.5 points. They desperately need Jaren Jackson Jr. back in the lineup, whose absence may have finally caught up with this team.

The Hornets are playing great basketball and have a strong veteran core led by Gordon Hayward (22.9ppg) and Terry Rozier (18.6ppg) who should give them the edge over this young Grizzlies outfit.

Suggested Bet: Charlotte (Head to Head) $2.40*

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OKC Thunder @ LA Lakers

These teams met just two days ago with the Lakers needing a vintage LeBron performance (triple double) to get past the Thunder in overtime.

The Lakers (and LeBron) looked in cruise control for most of the game, before turning on the gas late to force (and then win) overtime. It was a very similar look to their overtime win over another lowly team in the Pistons.

LeBron James is in his 18th NBA season, and while he is playing at an MVP level, the Lakers will likely start looking at easing his workload. He’s currently playing 34.5 minutes per game.

James is averaging 25 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists while shooting a career best 40% from deep. He means business this year and knows the importance of the top seed in the conference.

I think the Lakers come to play early in this game, removing any chance of another nailbiter, and giving LeBron a chance to watch the dying minutes from the bench.

Suggested Bet: Los Angeles 11+ (Margin)

*Odds correct as at 2pm, 10th February 2021.

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