NBA Betting Insights: Suns vs Hornets, Magic vs Raptors
NBA Betting Gems for Friday’s Slate
The NBA’s grueling 82-game marathon presents a nightly buffet of betting opportunities for shrewd handicappers. As we approach the season’s stretch run, each game takes on heightened importance for teams jockeying for playoff position or positioning themselves for a lottery pick. Let’s dive into two intriguing matchups on Friday’s slate and unearth some potential betting angles.
Phoenix Suns (-10) at Charlotte Hornets
The high-octane Phoenix Suns have struggled against the number recently, limping to a 2-8 ATS record over their last 10 games. However, a visit to the lowly Charlotte Hornets could be just what the doctor ordered to cure their covering woes.
Phoenix’s dazzling array of offensive talent, led by Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, should have a field day against one of the league’s most porous defenses. The Hornets rank dead last in numberFire’s nERD power rankings and will be severely shorthanded, missing star point guard LaMelo Ball and promising rookie center Mark Williams.
The Suns boast numerous statistical advantages that could facilitate a lopsided victory. They take 63% of their shots from inside the arc (9th highest frequency) while Charlotte allows the 8th most points in the paint and ranks 3rd worst in opponent two-point percentage. Conversely, the Suns are stingy in guarding the interior, ranking 6th best in opponent two-point percentage.
With motivation to keep their fading title hopes alive and facing a rematchered Hornets squad, the planet’s talent disparity heavily favors Phoenix covering this inflated spread at home.
Orlando Magic at Toronto Raptors (Under 217)
While the Magic have righted the ship with six wins in their last eight games, their formula for success isn’t exactly must-see TV. Head coach Jamahl Mosley has Orlando playing at a glacial pace while leaning heavily on their stifling defense.
Over the last three contests, the Magic have held opponents to just 105 points per game while scoring a pedestrian 95 themselves. With the under going 8-2 during this span, we could be in line for another grind-it-out affair against the reeling Raptors.
Orlando boasts the NBA’s 4th best defensive rating and 5th slowest pace while attempting the fewest shots per game and surrendering the fewest made field goals. This slow-down, muck-it-up approach figures to neutralize Toronto’s preference for attacking the interior as the Raptors rank 4th in points in the paint and take 63.1% of their shots from inside the arc (7th highest frequency).
The Magic are uniquely constructed to win this style of game. They dominate the glass with the 2nd best defensive rebounding percentage and 6th best offensive rebounding rate. Orlando also clogs the paint effectively, ranking 11th in fewest points in the paint allowed.
With both teams struggling to put the biscuit in the basket lately, look for this one to stay under the modest total of 217. Grab some snacks and buckle up for an old-fashioned rock fight.
There you have it, folks - two prospective betting plays highlighting the ever-compelling NBA product. As always, be sure to shop around for the best numbers and factor in all the latest injury news before pulling the trigger. Secure the bag and enjoy the games!