Germantas Kneita
Show Bio
With just 3 games remaining for most NBA teams, the regular season is winding down. There are still games of importance, however. In the East, the showdown between the Chicago Bulls and the Boston Celtics could go a long way to deciding the first-round matchups. Out West, the Dallas Mavericks will be looking to stay ahead of the chasing Utah Jazz, with both terams in action tonight.
You can find our full game previews here. But for now check out my selections below.
Luka Doncic over 28.5 points (-104)
The Dallas Mavericks are still involved in a tussle for places in the Western Conference standings. The Golden State Warriors are still within reach in 3rd, while the Utah Jazz are close enough behind in 5th to keep the Mavs at risk of losing home-court advantage. It means they cannot afford to let up tonight, and that is likely to lead to another big night from Luka Doncic. He has been able to hit 30 or more points in each of his last 5 games. On top of that he scored 33 points in 33 minutes when these teams last faced off. It is hard to see that dropping off.
The Pistons will be holding out 2 of the more experienced perimeter defenders for tonight’s game. Jerami Grant and Rodney McGruder are unavailable, which should make it an easier night for Doncic. With his bulk and wide array of post moves, I expect the Slovenian to be a handful for the younger cast of Pistons, especially in the post. If the Mavericks superstar can routinely get Cade Cunningham to switch onto him, he should have another 30-point night.
Be sure to check out our full game preview for Dallas Mavericks vs Detroit Pistons.
Kevin Durant over 29.5 points (-120)
The Brooklyn Nets picked up a key win last night in which Kyrie Irving took over and dominated. Kevin Durant largely took a backseat, attempting just 13 shots. However, with the team playing their 2nd game in as many nights, it could be his turn to take charge. The former MVP has played well against the New York Knicks this season, averaging 40 points. His recent form suggests he should be more than capable too, with Durant setting his career high against the Atlanta Hawks earlier this month.
The Knicks are also a favorable opponent matchup-wise for the forward. He will likely be matched up against RJ Barrett, who is among the 3 worst defensive players on the Knicks roster who have played at least 10 games and averaged at least 10 minutes. Over the last 10 games the Knicks are 20th in opponent 3-point attempts per game. That is something that Durant is capable of punishing, especially considering he is making 46.7% of his attempts from there during that stretch.
Be sure to check out our full game preview for Brooklyn Nets vs New York Knicks.
Pickswise is the home of free NBA picks and predictions. Make sure to also check out our NBA parlays and NBA prop bets tabs for more expert picks.
