It’s Martin Luther King Day today and as always the NBA has put together an impressive slate of games for us to enjoy. The day will begin with a cross-conference matchup as the Houston Rockets take on the Philadelphia 76ers. And it will conclude with a star-studded clash between the young Oklahoma City Thunder and the experienced Los Angeles Lakers squad. You can read our NBA predictions for all of Mo nday’s action. But for now, let’s get into my NBA parlay for today.
New Orleans Pelicans -4 over Dallas Mavericks (-110)
The New Orleans Pelicans will take on the Dallas Mavericks for the second straight game. They will look to pick up another road win with their chances once again improved by Luka Doncic being listed as doubtful. Derrick Jones Jr. has the same designation. Considering that Jones Jr. is coming into this after a 24-point performance, the Mavericks simply may not have enough weapons today. The Pelicans are 2nd in the NBA in defensive rating over the last 10 games, so would be well equipped to handle a healthy Mavericks team. Against this depleted unit, look for them to comfortably cover a small 4-point spread. That is especially true with them likely getting reinforcements. Zion Williamson, CJ McCollum, Brandon Ingram and Trey Murphy III all missed the last game but are probable to play today.
Read our full New Orleans Pelicans vs Dallas Mavericks predictions
New York Knicks -6.5 over Orlando Magic (-112)
The Orlando Magic offense has struggled without Franz Wagner. He has missed their last 5 games and over that stretch, the Magic have been just 28th in offensive rating. With the Knicks now looking like a Tom Thibodeau, defense-first type of team after acquiring OG Anunoby, they should be able to really limit the visitors today. During that 5 game stretch, they are top of the league in defensive rating. The Magic are also just 8-13 on the road this season. The Knicks, on the other hand, are 11-4 at home, with only 2 teams in the league having fewer losses at home this season. The hosts are also 10th in the league in 3-point percentage this season, while the visitors are just 29th in that category. That will be a difficult discrepancy to overcome against a team getting into their defensive stride.