76ers vs. Trail Blazers Pick
Are the host Portland Trail Blazers going to be able to hold off the Philadelphia 76ers when they meet tonight at 10:30PM ET?
Who Oddsmakers Like: According to oddsmakers at Bovada.lv, the Trail Blazers are listed as a 3.5-point favorite on the spread line. The total is set at 209 points. Portland opened as a 2.5-point favorite and the over-under was originally 210 points before dropping slightly.
Who the Public Likes: Philadelphia. As of Thursday afternoon, 60 percent of bets have been placed on the Sixers.
Injury Report: The biggest injury for the 76ers is to 2017 No. 1 overall pick Markelle Fultz, who will be re-evaluated in early January for a shoulder injury. Portland point guard Damian Lillard missed the last two games with a sprained ankle, but is probable to return tonight. Forward Noah Vonleh missed the last game with a dislocated finger and it is uncertain if he will be available tonight.
Who the Trends Like: Philadelphia is 5-0 ATS in the last five meetings. The under is 4-1 in the last five meetings. Portland is 4-0 ATS in its last four games playing on three or more days of rest.
Who We Like: As long as Joel Embiid is healthy enough to play and all indications are that he is, I like Philadelphia here. The Sixers are only 1-7 without their star center in the lineup, but 14-11 with him active. Philly knows it must string some wins together after the rough stretch and here’s a good opportunity against a Portland squad that struggled offensively more than anticipated.
NBA DAILY PREDICTION: PHILADELPHIA 76ERS +3.5