Wizards vs. Bucks
Pick: Bucks -10
We are witnessing history, ladies and gentlemen. The 2023-24 Washington Wizards are one of the worst NBA teams in the past decade. They have no redeeming qualities - maybe you could say Deni Advija has really improved or maybe you're a big Bilal Coulibaly believer long term. Either way, this squad is getting run off the court every night. They've lost 5 straight games and they arguably have not a single above average defender in their starting five. The Bucks, meanwhile, have settled in recently and are coming off an impressive win over Dallas. Giannis has been especially dominant lately and the Wiz have no answer for him. They're employing Kyle Kuzma and Daniel Gafford at the big positions. I see Milwaukee winning by 15 plus and Giannis continuing his strong play.
Warriors vs. Rockets
Pick: Rockets +8
Golden State should not be favored by 8 points against anyone right now, much less with Draymond Green on suspension. They've lost six straight games. Their list of issues is long. They're counting on a much younger group of role players than in recent years. Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins have failed to be consistent on the wing. Chris Paul does not have a pick and roll partner to really play to his strengths. The Rockets, meanwhile, have impressed me. They are 6-5 and have played everyone tough. They lost to the Warriors by 11 in October, yet the game was close at the end and Houston shot a stinky 27% on three pointers. Expect the Rockets to keep it close with Fred Van Vleet leading the way.
Bulls vs. Heat
Pick: Bulls +1
The Bulls are going for their fifth straight victory over Miami and they just beat them on Saturday night, 102-97. I think Chicago is simply a tough matchup for the Heat. They have more depth and, believe it or not, better shooting. Miami is 8-5, but I'm not buying them as a real threat in the East. At the moment, they are really missing Tyler Herro who is out with an ankle injury. Kyle Lowry and Haywood Highsmith are giving them nothing on offense. Duncan Robinson is a limited defender. Jaime Jaquez has played well but is still earning Coach Spo's trust. (I think soon we'll see him being a regular starter, as he should be) There is too much on Jimmy and Bam right now to carry the squad. I like the Bulls to win this one behind strong performances from DeRozan and Vucevic.
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