March puts college basketball front and center, but the NBA doesn't stop. I'd even argue it's a better time to bet on the NBA - that's why I created today's top NBA picks & predictions.
As the season winds down, teams play with a different purpose. Some jockey for playoff position, others manage player health, and some eliminated teams search for motivation with nothing left to play for.
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Sunday’s NBA Best Bets & Picks
(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Denver Nuggets
Denver is coming into this game playing well but a little inconsistent at times, which led to a loss on Wednesday night to a dreadful Memphis Grizzlies team. But they still have Nikola Jokic, who is averaging right around a triple-double per game this month. And they also have Jamaal Murray, who is averaging right under 25 points per game this month and has had 30+ points in three of his last six games.
As for Portland, the Trail Blazers have won four of their last six game, improving to 35-36. Deni Avdija and Donovan Clingan have been getting the job done for Portland. But they often don't get much help. They'll be without the services of Shaedon Sharpe and Vit Krejci, with Jerami Grant also a game-time decision.
Denver's defense has been inconsistent at times. But I trust them to get the job done against a lackluster and injured Portland roster at home. The Nuggets will not destroy Portland as they did earlier in the season, but they'll win this one comfortably.
Pick: Nuggets -8.5 (-110)
Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Boston Celtics
It's concerning for the Timberwolves anytime they play without Anthony Edwards. But, to be fair, they are 6-4 without him this season. They still score around 118 points a game and shoot around 50%. In a sense, you could argue that they are fine without him, since they do a better job of getting everyone involved.
They would, of course, prefer to have one of the most electric scoring threats in the NBA, especially when they are facing a team as strong as the Boston Celtics are on the defensive end of the court. With Edwards in the lineup earlier this season, Minnesota beat Boston, 119-115.
Jaylen Brown is listed as a game-time decision but is considered probable for today's game. With him and Jayson Tatum in the lineup, Boston is rounding into championship form. Minnesota will put up a good fight without Edwards, but will struggle against Boston’s defense.
Pick: Celtics -10.5 (-102)
