NBA Tips and Predictions: January 31st - February 5

Summary

There is a certain intensity in the air that currently surrounds NBA matchups, and that is of severe urgency among plenty of teams. Whether it be a 9th seed trying to make it in, or a former top seed reeling into the bottom half, there are so many different scenarios that teams are fighting for. This is crunch time in the NBA season, and the separation between fakers and contenders will be decided within these next few stretches. Injuries, COVID reserves, and so many more battles to fight, will predict and make what line-ups are to be fit on the court for many of these teams. Let’s get into two of the better games of the week!

February 1st – Los Angeles Lakers versus Portland Trail Blazers

The LA Lakers are one of the nation and world’s most popular organizations by default. The championships, rich history, and popularity of the players in the club are all factors that impact high pressure on this team, game in and game out. Lebron James has been sitting out the past few games due to knee soreness, however, he is expected back in this game to try and help make a late-season run for the Lakers. Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook are slowly making their way into chemistry with each other, and if this team figures it out, it needs a little bit of time.

Portland are currently one of the more unlucky teams in the NBA, with their main man and all-star Damian Lillard out due to injury. Defensively, they have been one of the bottom five teams in efficiency, and allow so many points in the paint and three point line. With a roster that is young and inexperienced, the Blazers are playing the season currently at a disadvantage. Although there are bright spots such as Amfernee Simons, I don’t expect them to do much here.

Selection: Lakers ML / Lakers Spread

February 4th – Utah Jazz versus Brooklyn Nets

The Jazz are one of the NBA’s most well-rounded teams, however as of recent, they’ve been shaky at best. Donovan Mitchell needs to corral this team into a better form, and Gobert should co-opt a new renaissance within the Jazz camp. They have all the pieces to compete, but may not be ready to do it all just yet.

Brooklyn should have James Harden back for this game, and although at home without Kyrie, they will be formidable due to scoring opportunities for their bench players such as Patty Mills. They are a live dog in this matchup, and should not be underestimated.

Selection: Nets Spread, Over on the Total