The NBA has just 4 games on its slate on Thursday, but still there are interesting matchups for us to exploit. The Indiana Pacers will be visiting the New York Knicks, with both teams looking to establish themselves as threats in the Eastern Conference. We will also get to witness one of the most historic rivalries in the league as the Los Angeles Lakers visit the Boston Celtics.
You can also read our NBA predictions for Thursday’s action, but for now, let’s get into my NBA parlay for today.
Indiana Pacers ML over New York Knicks (+130)
The New York Knicks are on an 8-game winning streak but could find it very tough to improve on that tonight against the Indiana Pacers. The home team is dealing with several key injuries to forwards, with Julius Randle confirmed out and OG Anunoby listed as questionable after missing the last 2 contests. Tyrese Haliburton is carrying the same designation for the Pacers, but following his return from injury against the Boston Celtics he stated that he intends to play against the Knicks. If that is really the case, the Pacers could have too much firepower for the Knicks — especially with Pascal Siakam coming into form. The power forward has surpassed the 20-point mark in 3 of his last 4 games.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs Memphis Grizzlies Over 215 (-110)
The Cleveland Cavaliers have been in fine offensive form and could help single-handedly drag this game over 215 points. They have surpassed the 115-point mark in 6 of their last 7 games. They are also 7th in offensive rating over the last 10 games and in the top half of the league in pace during that stretch. The Grizzlies will also have a front-court pairing of Jaren Jackson Jr. and Santi Aldama, who are both able to space the floor. The Cavaliers are 5th in the league in opponent points in the paint allowed, but if their bigs are forced to respect their opponents on the perimeter, it should help create space for the guards to attack the rim. I think the Grizzlies should at least reach the 100-point mark, with the Cavaliers capable of doing the rest.