The Scout: Thursday NBA Best Bets

Posted on April 28, 2021April 28, 2021 | Posted by The Scout

Washington Wizards @ LA Lakers

The Wizards (27-34) had their eight game winning streak come to an end at the hands of San Antonio last game, while the Lakers (36-25) have welcomed back Anthony Davis, with LeBron James not far away.

Russell Westbrook (21 points, 11 rebounds, 11 assists per game) and Bradley Beal (31 ppg) have dragged the Wizards to 10th in the Eastern Conference, and postseason basketball is now very likely. Their game plan is simple; run and gun, and attack the basket at every opportunity.

With AD’s minutes still restricted and no LeBron James running the offense, I see this as a real transition period for the Lakers who could struggle to trade blows with Russ and Beal down the stretch.

Suggested Bet: Washington (Head to Head) @ $2.20*

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Portland Trail Blazers @ Memphis Grizzlies

Portland (33-28) and Memphis (31-29) play for the third time this past week, and although the games have been close, it has been the Grizzlies who have come out on top on both occasions.

The Trail Blazers have lost five of their last six games and have been gradually sliding down the standings for some time now. The catalyst for this has been poor shooting from stars Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum, a trend we shouldn’t expect to continue.

Despite their struggles, Portland is close to full strength for the first time in a long time. The Grizzlies have lost back-to-back games and I think they’ll meet a far tougher Portland here.

Suggested Bet: Portland (Head to Head) @ $2.15*

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New Orleans Pelicans @ Denver Nuggets

The Pelicans (27-34) have won just two of their last seven while the Nuggets (40-21) have won six of their last seven, all but securing a top four seed in the west.

With Jamal Murray gone for the season and Will Barton out indefinitely with a knee injury, the Nuggets have looked to Michael Porter Jr to carry a larger scoring load. It’s a role he has thrived in, averaging 25 points in his last 10 games, including 31 and 39 in his last two.

Porter Jr is a unique player, standing at 6ft 10 with handles and a nice shooting stroke. He is shooting 42% from deep across his last 10 games, and looks to be enjoying playing with the one of the best facilitators in the league.

Suggested Bet: Michael Porter Jr 30+ Points @ $3.80*

*Odds correct as at 12pm, 28th April 2021.

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