Goran Dragic ( PG/SG Miami Heat)
Dragic has been playing spectacular this season, and he has become one of the key players of his team. Goran Dragic is scoring on average of 18ppg and getting 3.8 trb with 6.5 apg this season. Looking at his last 3 matches played, he contributed an average of 23 ppg. The minor problem could be his shoulder injury, but he said he is ready for the upcoming match and will most likely be seen on the pitch for 30+ minutes. Dragic is a key player for his team and with an important match in front of them, he will have to step up. Expect him to continue his great showing and score over 21 points.
Prediction: Over 20.5 points
Zach LaVine ( SG/PG, Minnesota Timberwolves)
LaVine’s scoring has blown up in the past 2 matches. Against Spurs he scored 25 points and added 29 against Toronto Raptors. LaVine is averaging 20.5 ppg 3.0trb and 2.8 ast this season, which is a huge improvement rom this career average (13.1ppg, 2.3trb, 3.3 ast). But in all fairness, LaVine is inconsistent with his scoring. One day he will score 26 points, the next one he will only manage to score 13. It really seems as a flip of a coin, which determines if LaVine will go over 20 points or not. Minnesota Timberwolves will play against Detroit Pistons in the upcoming match. Pistons are ranked no.2 in defensive efficiency this season. They are capable of stopping players from scoring from the paint, as well as from 3pt line, so seeing LaVine ending the game with more than 20 points is not likely. Pick LaVine to score less than 20 points.
Prediction: Zach LaVine Under 19.5 points
Kemba Walker ( PG, Charlotte Hornets)
Kemba Walker is showing great performances lately and is coming from 25 point game against Detroit Pistons on Thursday. With 25 points he was the best scorer for his team, and a huge contributor to the win over Pistons. This season, he is averaging 23.6ppg, 4trb and 5.0 ast. His scoring this season is improved by a lot, compared to his career average (11.7ppg) and it’s all thanks to his consistent performances. In the upcoming match, Charlotte Hornest will face off against Orlando Magic, who are not that good when it comes to protecting the paint. Walker did improve his jumper, but most of his points come from under the basket, so somewhat poor defence in the paint suits him. Expect another great showing from Walker in the upcoming match.
Prediction: Kemba Walker Over 22 points
Also, check out our article about home count advantage in NBA.