There might only be five games on the NBA slate, but we have some value on the board. I’ve added three best bets for tonight’s NBA action using the AI Model. Let’s have a night!
Pics Summary
- Lakers +6.5 (-110)
- Jazz +7.5 (-110)
- Hornets +4.5 (-110)
*All odds from Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Denver Nuggets
Saturday, February 22, 2025 – 08:30 PM ET at Ball Arena
The AI Model projects the Lakers will lose to the Nuggets, 123-118. However, the Lakers are +6.5 against the spread, which would cover the five-point loss. Consider the Lakers in this spot.
LA Needs To Keep Turnover Percentage Low
The Los Angeles Lakers have scored 115.5 points per 100 possessions. That ranks 11th in the NBA, which is still above average. They’ve done this by getting good shots and earning a lot of foul shots.
However, they’ve also been able to limit turnovers to 14.1%. The low turnover rate should continue against the Nuggets, who have added just 13.3% of turnovers per game this season.
The Lakers might not see the foul line as often, but as long as their possessions and shot attempts remain high, they will be fine.
Can The Lakers Stop High-Powered Nuggets?
The Denver Nuggets rank third in the NBA in points per 100 possessions. They also shoot an effective field goal percentage of 58%, which is second in the NBA.
Still, the Lakers have held teams to 113.9 points per 100 possessions and have also limited opponents to a 54.1% effective field goal percentage.
In addition, the Nuggets are good at getting to the foul line, but the Lakers have also limited teams to a 17.1 free throw rate.
If the Lakers are getting 6.5 points, I’m taking it.
NBA Pick: Lakers +6.5 (-110) at Bet365
Houston Rockets vs. Utah Jazz
Saturday, February 22, 2025 – 09:30 PM ET at Delta Center
The AI Model believes the Rockets will only defeat the Jazz by five points. Meanwhile, you can find the Jazz at +7.5 against the spread via Bet365. That’s the play.
Can Houston Find Success On The Glass
The Houston Rockets are known for dominating the offensive glass. They have earned 35.4% of offensive rebounds, the best rate in the NBA.
However, the Jazz have allowed only 27.7% of offensive rebounds. The fewer second chances for the Rockets, the better off the Jazz will be.
Ultimately, Houston has shot a 51.5% effective field goal percentage. The Rockets don’t take quality shots. Therefore, if the Jazz can succeed on the defensive glass, they’ll be in good shape.
The Jazz Must Limit Turnovers!
The Utah Jazz really aren’t a terrible offense. It’s just the high turnovers that make them look bad. After all, the Jazz have added 31.1% of offensive rebounds and a 20.5 free throw rate. Utah has also shot a better effective field goal percentage than the Rockets, at 53.8%.
Houston also generates about 15 turnovers per game. It would be helpful if the Jazz could keep the turnover rate around 15%.
Take the Jazz at +7.5 and -110 NBA odds.
NBA Pick: Jazz +7.5 (-110) at Bet365
Charlotte Hornets vs. Portland Trail Blazers
Saturday, February 22, 2025 – 10:00 PM ET at Moda Center
The AI Model predicts the Trail Blazers will add a four-point win at home over the Hornets. However, that wouldn’t be enough to cover the 4.5-point spread at Bet365. Take the Hornets at +4.5.
The Hornets Can Compete!
The Charlotte Hornets are one of the worst offenses in the NBA. That’s not even up for debate. However, the Hornets can potentially do better tonight.
After all, the Blazers rank 24th in points per 100 possessions and have allowed 30.8% of offensive rebounds.
I’d expect the Hornets to get quality looks and add more second chances using the offensive glass. Plus, the Blazers foul at a high rate. If Charlotte can be more aggressive, they’ll add even more points at the foul line.
Don’t Sleep On The Charlotte Defense?
The Charlotte Hornets rank 16th in points per 100 possessions. Their defense has also limited teams to a 54.5% effective field goal percentage and held opponents to 27.8% offensive rebounds.
Portland is good on the offensive glass but likely won’t add as many boards as the Hornets. In addition, the Blazers have turned the ball over 16.1% of the time and could have more turnovers by the end of the game.
On paper, the Hornets look like they can win this game outright. Let’s grab them against the spread at +4.5.
NBA Pick: Hornets +4.5 (-110) at Bet365
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*The line and/or odds referenced in this article might have changed since the content was published. For the latest information on line movements, visit OddsTrader’s free betting odds tool.
