February 12, 2020
Detroit Pistons (19-37) at Orlando Magic (23-31)
Match Winner
Orlando Magic -7.5 @ -110
The Detroit Pistons aren't winning, aren't covering and none of that is going to change with a roster that's missing so many key pieces. However, we can say the same about an Orlando Magic squad that's not playing a lick of defense, is 10-16-1 ATS at home and has lost 10 of their last 13 games overall. This is a spot where I'd usually lean the points simply due to not wanting to back either side, but the Orlando Magic are the better, healthier team, and they need a win to avoid starting to fall out of the playoff race. The Magic should roll in this game, but I wouldn't touch it.
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Miami Heat (35-18) at Utah Jazz (35-18)
Match Winner
Miami Heat +4.5 @ -110
The Jazz are on a nice little run as they've just claimed wins over the Trailblazers, Rockets and Mavericks, but each of those wins came by four points or less. Meanwhile, the Heat haven't been playing at their best lately, but they looked great in their win over the Warriors, especially Butler who didn't miss a step in his return. I'm really expecting a close contest in this one, so I'm leaning towards the Heat and the points in a game they could easily win.
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Golden State Warriors (12-42) at Phoenix Suns (21-33)
Match Winner
Golden State +7.5 @ -110
The Warriors were able to acquire Andrew Wiggins at the trade deadline, but that hasn't helped so far as they are coming into this one off a tough loss to the Heat. The Suns have been in terrible form themselves as they're struggling with injuries to their big men and they haven't been particularly good at home all season. I think the Suns get the much-needed win here, but the Suns are just 1-8 ATS in their last nine home games, so I don't know why they're so heavily favored in this one. Give me the Warriors with the points in a close one.
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Washington Wizards (19-33) at New York Knicks (17-37)
Match Winner
Washington Wizards +2.5 @ -110
The Washington Wizards are on the end of a back to back, but they're also playing the better basketball and have a chance to fight for a playoff spot if they want it. The New York Knicks shouldn't be favored against most teams in this league and it's hard to lay points with them regardless of the situation. The Wizards have won seven of the last 10 meetings against the Knicks. I want the bucket, as I'm never looking to lay chalk with the Knicks.
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Los Angeles Clippers (37-16) at Philadelphia 76ers (33-21)
Match Winner
Philadelphia -1 @ -110