Thursday is the first day of regular-season games after the NBA All-Star break. It features 10 contests on a nearly full NBA slate with start times ranging from 7:00 PM ET to 10:30 PM ET. Can the Hornets cover the 4.5-point spread as home underdogs against the Rockets? Will the Knicks defeat the Pistons by 5+ points at Madison Square Garden in New York City? I’ll pick both contests below. Read on for our Thursday NBA Best Bets Feb. 19 article.
NBA Best Bet: Charlotte Hornets +4.5 over Houston Rockets
I like Charlotte here. The Hornets are primed to cover the 4.5-point spread as home underdogs against the Rockets on Thursday. Charlotte has been remarkably reliable in this role, boasting a 24-16 ATS record as an underdog and a solid 10-8 ATS mark as a home underdog this season. Their performance in non-conference matchups is equally impressive as they hold an NBA-best 12-7 ATS record against the West this season. Furthermore, the Hornets have found a rhythm lately, going 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games overall and 6-4 ATS in their last 10 games against Houston. Expect Charlotte’s recent momentum and young talent to keep this contest tight until the final buzzer. Final score projection: CHARLOTTE HORNETS 115, HOUSTON ROCKETS 112.
NBA Best Bet: Detroit Pistons +4.5 over New York Knicks
I’d take Detroit in this game. The Pistons have a compelling case to cover the 4.5-point spread as road underdogs against the Knicks on Thursday. Detroit has been a bettor’s dream in this spot, boasting a perfect 6-0 ATS record as a road underdog and a dominant 9-1 ATS mark as an underdog overall this season. Their 20-13 ATS conference record further highlights their season-long dominance in the East. Historically, the Pistons have held their own in this matchup, going 6-4 straight up and ATS in their last 10 games against the Knicks. Expect Detroit’s gritty play to keep this one within a single possession. Final score projection: NEW YORK KNICKS 110, DETROIT PISTONS 108.
Thursday NBA Best Bets Feb. 19
- Charlotte Hornets +4.5
- Detroit Pistons +4.5