Picks of the Week: Lakers-Thunder, Timberwolves-Clippers
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: 2-2-0
Sanjay: 2-2-0
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Saturday, November 30, 2024, 11:00 AM: Los Angeles Lakers vs Oklahoma City Thunder
The Lakers are currently 11-7 in the Western Conference, sitting comfortably in the 5th spot with hopes of securing a playoff berth. Up next, they face the young core of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and their recent acquisition, Isaiah Hartenstein.
If the Lakers are at full strength, I’m confident they can win this matchup with ease. The team has shown promising chemistry, bolstered by the summer signing of J.J. Redick. Leading the charge is none other than LeBron “The King”James, who continues to defy Father Time. However, the real catalyst for the Lakers’ success this season has been Anthony Davis. He’s delivering a stellar performance every time he steps on the court, currently averaging 29 points, 12 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game in just 18 appearances.
Rookie Dalton Knetch has also been a revelation. He’s been lighting it up from beyond the arc, showing the teams that passed on him who the real star of this rookie class is.
The Lakers enter this game with momentum, going 7-3 in their last 10 games, while the Oklahoma City Thunder have struggled at 3-7 in the same span. Interestingly, their records mirror their ATS (against the spread) performances.
- LA Lakers: 7-3 SU (straight up) in their last 10 games.
- Oklahoma City Thunder: 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games.
- LA Lakers: 5-0 SU in their last 5 Friday games.
With their current form and a favorable matchup, the Lakers are in a strong position to keep their streak alive.
Denzeal’s pick: Lakers MW/-1
Saturday, November 30, 2024, 8:30 AM: Minnesota Timberwolves vs Los Angeles Clippers
The Timberwolves (8-10) are hosting the Clippers (12-8) in what promises to be an intriguing matchup, as both teams have defied preseason expectations. The Western Conference finalist Timberwolves have struggled to find their rhythm this season despite key additions like Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Clippers, playing without superstar Kawhi Leonard, have been thriving behind the strong performances of James Harden and Norman Powell.
Minnesota’s star, Anthony Edwards, made headlines after last game with his blunt comment: “They’re trash.”
Coming off that controversy and the Wolves being booed on their home floor, I believe they’ll rally to secure a much-needed win to keep their Emirates Cup chances alive. Teams often respond well to adversity, coming together and playing with renewed focus. Having Mike Conley back to orchestrate the offense should help the rest of the squad find their groove and improve their rhythm on both ends of the floor.
- LA Clippers: 1-5 ATS (against the spread) in their last 6 games against Minnesota.
- LA Clippers: 1-5 SU (straight up) in their last 6 games against Minnesota.
With home-court advantage and plenty to prove, the Timberwolves are well-positioned to turn things around.
Sanjay’s Pick: Minnesota Timberwolves – 5.5
