THE LOCK
Charlotte Hornets v Toronto Raptors – Hornets (-1.5) 227.5 @ $1.89 (Sportsbet)
12 units
We simply cannot fathom how the Hornets start as only 1.5 point favourites in this one. The Raps are still without FVV, Siakam, Anunoby and Pat McCaw because of Covid-protocols, whilst the Hornets welcomed Devontae Graham back last game – meaning they’re now fully healthy. They look well balanced, too, with LaMelo Ball staying in the starting lineup. The Raps played out of their skins last hit-out, and still went down to the Hawks courtesy of a Tony Snell buzzer beater. Norm Powell went for 33 in that game, and Chris Boucher had 29. Aron Baynes had his best game of the season, and Kyle Lowry had 17 and 12 assists. To us, that is the absolute ceiling for this team being so short handed, and we think they won’t be able to replicate that level for a second game straight. They also face a much starchier defence in the Hornets, and Charlotte’s multi-faceted offensive set-up really should see them win this game comfortably. Take the -1.5 on offer. Take out a second mortgage, plonk it on, and ride with us to the promised land!!!!
THE ACCUMULATOR
Portland Trail Blazers -4.5 @ 1.90 (Sportsbet)
4 units
Portland (-4.5) could have been a lock on any other day, but that Hornets bet was just too ridiculous not to put up in lights. That being said, we are pretty happy with this leg. Portland are simply a much better team than the (still Beasley-less) Wolves. The market is accounting far too much for their blowout win over the Pels last start, and with things regressing towards the norm, Portland should genuinely have way too much in their arsenal to even give Minnesota a sniff. A double digit win looks likely, and the -4.5 looks as tasty as Gran’s Sunday roast as a result.
THE SPECULATORS
Two plays for today, and some nice value on offer!
LaMelo Ball to have a triple double @ $13 – 1 unit
Ball has been excellent since his long overdue shift into Charlotte’s starting lineup. They run into a very short handed Toronto outfit today, who are missing three of their starting five (including their best defender in O.G Anunoby). Ball should have no trouble getting to his spots today, and $13 looks very tasty.
John Collins to score 30+ points @ $18 – 1 unit
The Hawks play a fairly average defence tonight in the form of the Sacramento Kings. Collins had 34 points three games ago against Miami, and 25 the outing before that. He’s been a little quieter in his last three games, and we’re expecting a nice bounce back game against a soft Kings team.