Friday’s Best NBA & NHL Bets (3/15)
No matter your sport of choice, there's always sports betting action to be had. We'll have you covered each and every day with our daily best bets. Here are our best bets across each major sport in action today.
Today's Best Bets
NBA Best Bets
(Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook)
Los Angeles Clippers @ New Orleans Pelicans
The Clippers are struggling at the wrong time. It wasn't too long ago that this team was in the top spot of the Western Conference, but they are 8-7 in their last 15. During that span, the highly efficient defense is 26th in defensive rating, and their offensive rating is in the middle of the road. You have to be worried that there are a lot of older veterans who have had trouble staying on the court. Could they be breaking down?
The Pelicans are picking up at the right time, as they are 13-5 over their last 18. Their overall recent offense has been tough to contain, as their effective field goal percentage is 60% or better in six of their last 10. Zion Williamson is showing off the potential we've expected when he's healthy; he's averaging 23.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, 6.2 assists and 1.2 blocks per game over his 16.
Playing the night before, don't be surprised if the Clippers aren't up for this game. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George clocked 30+ minutes against the Bulls and will likely be without James Harden.
Pick: Pelicans -6.5 (-110)
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NHL Best Bets
(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)
Los Angeles Kings @ Chicago Blackhawks
Here is another game featuring an enormous disparity in the odds between two teams that aren't as far apart recently as we think.
The Kings rank 12th in xGF% at 5-on-5 over their last 10, while Chicago is right behind them at 14th. The Blackhawks are actually due for some serious positive regression, as their actual goals-for percentage sits at 32%. This is primarily because their shooting percentage of 5.53% ranks second-worst in the league. Chicago experienced some of that positive regression their last time out against the aforementioned Ducks, lighting them up for seven goals.
Chicago has gotten healthier and opened up its play lately. Oh, and Connor Bedard has found his stride, putting up 11 points in six games this month already.
Unfortunately, we will see Arvid Soderblom between the pipes for Chicago. Soderblom ranks 92nd among 93 goaltenders in goals saved above expected this season. Whether it's Cam Talbot or David Rittich for L.A., the Kings should have the edge in-net.
However, the spot favors the Blackhawks here, as the Kings will travel to Dallas for a pivotal matchup on Saturday and could be looking ahead a bit. L.A. is a huge favorite for a reason, but recent form would indicate the Hawks have more of a chance than you'd think. With a little bit of puck luck, the Hawks could surprise here. I'll play it safe and take the Hawks on the puck line, but I also don't mind a frisky Friday play on the moneyline.
The pick: Chicago Blackhawks +1.5 (-120)
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