Picks of the Week: Cavaliers-Celtics, Jazz-Lakers
A collaboration between ALL-STAR Magazine and SportsPlus PH
Disclaimer: This article is not meant to be consumed as financial advice but rather a way to provide context on sports betting.
When it comes to making sharp NBA betting decisions, few are as consistent and insightful as Denzeal Chung and Sanjay Belani. Both seasoned gamblers, Denzeal and Sanjay have built reputations in their field for reading the game beyond the box score, blending deep basketball knowledge with an uncanny ability to analyze the ever-changing odds. This week, they’re back with their top picks, breaking down matchups, player trends, and betting lines.
Running Record:
Denzeal: 2-1-0
Sanjay: 2-1-0
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Wednesday, November 20, 8:00 AM: Cleveland Cavaliers vs Boston Celtics
An exciting matchup awaits in the East as the Cleveland Cavaliers take on the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. This is a battle between two juggernauts of their respective conference. With Kristaps Porziņģis out of the lineup, the Celtics have often had to step up and compensate for his absence, proving once again that they thrive as a team rather than relying on a single player. Last season, the dynamic duo of Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum silenced critics by leading Boston to a championship, bringing the trophy back to TD Garden.
Despite their potential for dominance, the Celtics have played inconsistently this season, often securing wins by narrow margins instead of blowing out opponents. That said, Boston’s ability to shoot from deep remains lethal – they currently rank #1 in both three-pointers made and attempted. Additionally, they are #2 in free throws and points per game, showcasing their offensive versatility.
Meanwhile, the Cleveland Cavaliers have emerged as one of the league’s most impressive teams, boasting an undefeated 15-0 record. Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland have led the charge, showing poise and determination throughout the season. The Cavaliers top the league in points, field goals made, three-point percentage, and true shooting percentage. However, questions remain about their versatility, especially as they face the defending champions on their home court.
Cavaliers are 10-0 straight up (SU) in their last 10 games.
Denzeal’s pick: Boston -4.5
Wednesday, November 20, 11:00AM: Utah Jazz vs Los Angeles Lakers
The defending NBA In-Season Tournament champions, the Los Angeles Lakers, host the Utah Jazz at Crypto.com Arena as they ride a five-game win streak. Despite missing key players like Rui Hachimura and Jaxson Hayes, the Lakers have found their groove with role players Dalton Knecht and Christian Kaloko stepping up admirably. LeBron James has been orchestrating the offense as lead playmaker, while Anthony Davis continues to post MVP-caliber numbers night after night.
On the other hand, the Jazz have shown flashes of competitiveness but seem to be embracing a rebuilding mindset. Head coach Will Hardy has been experimenting with different lineups and reducing minutes for his starters, signaling a possible shift toward development. With Walker Kessler sidelined by a hip injury, the Lakers’ star duo of James and Davis are poised to dominate the paint and potentially blow out the Jazz.
The Jazz are 1-4 SU against the Lakers in their last five meetings.
The Jazz are 1-4 against the spread (ATS) versus Pacific Division opponents in their last five games.
Sanjay’s Pick: Lakers -10.5
