NBA Tips and Predictions: February 21 – 27

Summary

There are so many things to be excited about as an NBA fan. The 2022 All-Star Weekend draws to a close, revealing a tough slate of games in the final stretch of the season heading into what should be a very competitive level of playoff basketball. Coaches and GM’s alike will be looking into what gives their teams the best shot at surviving and advancing, while also making sure everyone is up to full health capacity. Let’s take a look at this week’s premier action in the National Basketball Association.

February 24th – Boston Celtics versus Brooklyn Nets

In a game that should spark so much excitement, the ever-growing presence of the Boston Celtics, who came into the break with one of the hottest records, is definitely a cause for concern. These young stars are starting to figure out how to play ball with each other, and as a result, are finding themselves in positions to win more often than not. Headed by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, the Celtics are loaded offensively. The problem was never their offense; however, it was their defence. In recent times they have played better on that side of the court, resulting in better results.

The Nets are now finding some hope in their season, after making a trade that saw James Harden leaving their squad. Now, they are filled with deeper roster spots and more overall depth to go with Kevin Durant. Ben Simmons will be re-energized and wanting to make a difference in a team that actually wants him, and only time will tell if the results flourish under Steve Nash. Expect a close game here, with lots of fireworks.

Selection: Celtics ML / Spread

February 25th – Dallas Mavericks versus Utah Jazz

Luka Doncic and company will be facing a stern task this upcoming weekend, when Utah and Donovan Mitchell come to town. Both teams are known as high-scoring offenses with so many ways to hurt you in the post, perimeter, and mid-range. The defence in this game will be the telling point as to who wants it more, because there will be limited opportunities to grab missed shots off the glass and create turnovers.

Expect a high-paced affair with coast-to-coast basketball in this one. Rudy Gobert looks to be a difference maker in the paint, and his presence will be a limitation to what the Mavericks can do within 10 feet of the basket.

Selection: Utah Jazz ML