ORANJPEEL

My model favors the Nuggets. I placed my bet this morning with a half pt buy at -4. The line moved to -6 this pm, even at that number, it is good value and in my model’s range. Miami is heading into a B2B Road coming off a 20 pt loss to the Suns. It’s 645pm and Jimmy Butler’s ankle is still in question, he may not even suit up. Even though the Nuggets are without Murray, i think the trio of Porter, Jokic and Gordon should be enough to cover.

OP STAFF | 19-12 NBA SEASON 2020-21

My model favors the Raptors. They lost to the Bulls couple of days ago, and i was impressed with how they fought even though management is tearing down the team. Chris Boucher was the next man up to replace Norman Powell, with a line of 38pts and 19 rebounds for a career night. I expect his contributions to continue and Gary Trent will look more comfortable with each game. The Cavaliers beat the tanking Thunders couple of days ago, but this Raptors team doesn’t play like it is tanking. There is also a chance Lowry plays tonight. Take the Raptors.

OP STAFF | 18-12 NBA SEASON 2020-21

My model favors the Bulls. Toronto’s lead guard of Lowry and Van Vleet are on IR, Gary Trent should fill in admirably but this doesn’t look like a team that is in win-now mode. Chicago on the other hand traded away part of the future for All Star veteran Vucevic, and everyone on the roster is relativity healthy with the wire indicating that Lavine and Markkanen will be ready to go. The Bulls have a .500 road record and with Raptors playing games in Tampa, there is no home advantage. Lay the points.

OP STAFF | 17-12 NBA SEASON 2020-21