Friday night features 5 games on the NBA slate. Can the Knicks cover the 6.5-point spread as home favorites against the Sixers on Friday night? Will Oklahoma City defeat Minnesota by 8+ points in Minneapolis? Both games will be on Prime Video, and I’ll pick both contests below. Read on for our Friday NBA Best Bets Dec. 19 article.
NBA Best Bet: Philadelphia 76ers +6.5 over New York Knicks
I like the Sixers here. Philadelphia should cover the 6.5 points against the Knicks on Friday because they’ve been strong in key ATS situations this season: 7-5 ATS as an underdog, 15-7 ATS in conference games, and 8-2 ATS on the road, showing that they can hang with good teams regardless of venue or talent level. Philly’s ability to stay competitive—even in losses—and trend toward covering late in games offers value here versus a Knicks squad that could be tired from their NBA Cup run and doesn’t blow teams out consistently. Final score projection: NEW YORK KNICKS 114, PHILADELPHIA 76ERS 109.
NBA Best Bet: Minnesota Timberwolves +7.5 over Oklahoma City Thunder
I’d take Minnesota in this one. The Timberwolves should cover 7.5 points at home vs. OKC because this matchup historically stays tight—the Wolves are 6-3 ATS in their last 9 vs. the Thunder and 5-4 ATS after a loss this season, showing they bounce back well after dropping a game. Minnesota plays at a solid offensive clip (top-10 scoring rate) and could score enough to counteract an elite Thunder attack that also pushes pace. This tempo typically yields high possessions and keeps spreads manageable. OKC’s efficiency doesn’t always translate to blowouts on the road on short rest, and the Wolves’ recent familiarity with this Thunder core should keep this within striking distance. Final score projection: OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER 118, MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES 112.
Friday NBA Best Bets Dec. 19
- Philadelphia 76ers +6.5
- Minnesota Timberwolves +7.5
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