NBA Expert Picks and Best Bets | Nov 17

NBA sports bettors get ready for three big games on Friday night. The Philadelphia 76ers (8-3) gear up to face the Atlanta Hawks (6-5), with the 76ers holding a slight -1 point spread. Despite a recent loss to the Celtics, the 76ers showcased offensive prowess, led by Joel Embiid's 20 points. The Atlanta Hawks, fresh from a narrow defeat against the Knicks, rely on Bogdan Bogdanovic's scoring expertise. 

Meanwhile, the Boston Celtics (9-2) take on the Toronto Raptors (5-6) with a -6.5 point spread favoring the Celtics at BetMGM. Following a solid victory against the 76ers, the Celtics, with an average of 119.4 points per game, showcase offensive prowess. 

In another exciting matchup, the Denver Nuggets (9-2) clash with the New Orleans Pelicans (5-6), holding a -4.5 point spread on DraftKings. After a resilient win against the Clippers, the Nuggets, averaging 114.5 points, aim to exploit the Pelicans' defensive vulnerabilities.

76ers ML | +105 at FanDuel

The Philadelphia 76ers (8-3) head to State Farm Arena, facing the Atlanta Hawks (6-5) with a slim -1 point spread. In their last game against the Celtics, despite a 117-107 loss, the 76ers exhibited offensive prowess. Joel Embiid's 20 points and 50.0% shooting showcased their scoring abilities.

The Hawks, following a 116-114 loss to the Knicks, rely on Bogdan Bogdanovic's scoring with 28 points at 53.3%. Philadelphia, averaging 119.9 points per game, displays a potent offense.

Facing an Atlanta defense allowing 117.2 points, the 76ers, with -110 moneyline odds at FanDuel, are well-positioned to secure victory. Expect a closely contested battle, but the 76ers prevail, making them a strong moneyline pick.

Celtics -6.5 | -115 at BetMGM

The Boston Celtics (9-2) face the Toronto Raptors (5-6) at Scotiabank Arena with a -6.5 point spread favoring the Celtics, at BetMGM. In their recent 117-107 victory against the 76ers, the Celtics showcased offensive efficiency, led by Jayson Tatum's 29 points and 43.5% shooting.

With a 9-2 record and averaging 119.4 points per game, the Celtics exhibit a dynamic offense. Facing the Raptors, who recently suffered a 128-112 loss to the Bucks, Boston's well-rounded gameplay positions them to cover the -6.5 spread.

The Raptors, with a 5-6 record, struggle defensively, allowing opponents to shoot 46.4%. Expect the Celtics to capitalize on Toronto's defensive vulnerabilities, securing a win and covering the spread.

Nuggets -4.5 | -110 at DraftKings

The Denver Nuggets (9-2) take on the New Orleans Pelicans (5-6) at the Smoothie King Center with a -4.5 point spread favoring the Nuggets, at DraftKings. In their recent 111-108 victory against the Clippers, the Nuggets displayed resilience with Nikola Jokic leading the charge with 32 points and 16 rebounds.

With a 9-2 record, Denver's offensive prowess, averaging 114.5 points per game, positions them as strong contenders against the Pelicans. New Orleans, coming off a 131-110 win against the Mavericks, faces defensive challenges, allowing opponents to shoot 46.1%.

Expect Denver to capitalize on their offensive efficiency and exploit the Pelicans' defensive vulnerabilities, securing a win and covering the -4.5 spread.