NBA Friday: Expert Picks & Predictions for Warriors-Timberwolves and More
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A robust seven-game NBA slate headlines Friday’s action, offering a wealth of betting opportunities after a period of smaller schedules and NBA Cup contests. The night culminates in a highly anticipated matchup between the Golden State Warriors and the Minnesota Timberwolves. Early action features a compelling Eastern Conference clash between the Atlanta Hawks and the Detroit Pistons. Bettors will find a diverse range of options tonight, and one analyst is sharing their top picks.
“It’s nice to have a ton of options to consider when betting on The Association tonight,” one source noted.
Curry Expected to Shine in Return to the Court
All eyes will be on Steph Curry as he returns to the Golden State Warriors lineup after a five-game absence due to injury. Despite the inherent risk of betting on a player coming off an injury, the current line of OVER 24.5 Points (-111), via DraftKings Sportsbook, appears undervalued.
Curry has surpassed the 25-point mark in nine of his 16 games this season, demonstrating an increased offensive volume with 1.4 more shot attempts and 0.8 more 3-pointers per game compared to last season. The Timberwolves currently allow 25.63 points per game to opposing point guards, presenting a favorable matchup for the star guard.
Prior to his injury, Curry showcased his scoring prowess with games of 46, 49, 34, 38, and 31 points in his last seven November contests. “The volume is going to be there for the star guard,” a source stated, suggesting Curry is poised for a strong performance.
Fading Embiid Against the Pacers
Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid presents a compelling fade opportunity, with a line set at UNDER 22.5 Points (-114). Embiid has only exceeded 22.5 points in two games this season and has played over 30 minutes in just one contest.
His shooting efficiency is a concern, currently at 40.7 percent from the field. A significant shift in his shot selection reveals he’s taking 31.1 percent of his shots from beyond the arc and only 19.3 percent from inside three feet, indicating a reliance on jump shots and a diminished presence near the rim.
While the Indiana Pacers rank 22nd in the NBA in opponent points in the paint, the analyst isn’t convinced Embiid will capitalize. The former MVP has failed to reach 20 points in three consecutive games following a November absence and appears to be struggling offensively. Furthermore, the Pacers boast the sixth-ranked defensive rating in the league over their last 10 games.
Hawks to Cover Despite Key Absences
Despite being without Trae Young and Kristaps Porzingis, the Atlanta Hawks (+7.5, -115) are positioned as undervalued underdogs against the Detroit Pistons. While Detroit has secured two wins against the Hawks this season, both victories were narrow, by margins of eight and one point, respectively.
The Hawks have demonstrated strong road performance, boasting a 10-5 record against the spread and straight up away from home. Despite Detroit’s strong start, their performance has cooled in recent games, posting a net rating of +3.5 while winning seven of their last ten matchups. The Pistons currently hold a season net rating of +5.4.
“The Pistons may win, but I like the Hawks to hang around on Friday,” one analyst commented, suggesting Atlanta can keep the game within the 7.5-point spread.
Please note: Odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.
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