Another week of NBA hoops features plenty of excitement, especially with Thursday's trade deadline approaching. Many teams will stay put, but other squads could look different.
For now, there are games to be played. Let's get to our three best bets for Monday's six-contest slate.
Mavericks @ Sixers (+1.5, O/U 242)
The Sixers exceed the total in 62.5% of their games, by far the NBA's best mark. Most of those matchups are with Joel Embiid, who's out for an extended period with a knee injury.
Philadelphia's offense suffers without perhaps the league's most dominant offensive player. However, the Mavericks have the NBA's sixth-worst defense. Tyrese Maxey and the rest of the Sixers' supporting cast won't have a problem scoring at home against Dallas. And Philadelphia went over the total in its last two games without the reigning MVP.
Embiid's absence creates a rim-protection hole in the Sixers' defense. The Mavs should exploit a suspect Sixers defense, especially with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving in the lineup.
Pick: Over 242
Hawks team total: Over 119.5 points
The Hawks' offense - led by Trae Young and Dejounte Murray - is clicking and behind the team's emergence into play-in tournament contention. Atlanta averaged 135.4 points per game over its last five contests, winning four of those.
The Clippers pose a challenge Monday in Atlanta, but Los Angeles is playing its second game in as many nights. The Clippers traveled after a win over Miami on Sunday evening. Many of Los Angeles' starters played upwards of 33 minutes, including James Harden, who recorded a team-high 42 minutes.
The Clippers have a solid defense, but they'll have tired legs against a scorching-hot offense.
Odds: -120 (playable to -130)
Draymond Green: Over 22.5 PRA
Draymond Green isn't exactly a prolific scorer. That's no secret. But his impact on winning through his playmaking, defense, and rebounding is obvious.
The Warriors' struggles go beyond Green, who's been a steady presence on both ends since returning from suspension in January. He's averaging 23.6 combined points, rebounds, and assists over the last six games. Against the Nets, he should showcase a similar production.
Odds: -105 (playable to -115)
Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on X @soshtry for more betting coverage.
