Friday NBA Picks
Our team of writers and handicappers hand out their NBA picks and predictions for Friday, March 13.
Cleveland Cavilers at Sacramento Kings, 10:05PM ET
LeBron James is no stranger to success on the basketball court. But even for a 24-year-old professional who’s grown accustomed to the accolades that have been coming his way since he was a high school phenom, James’ next game could be special.
James looks to become the first player to record four consecutive triple-doubles in nearly 20 years – and possibly help the Cavaliers to their first division title in more than three decades – on Friday night when they visit the Sacramento Kings.
On Thursday, James had 34 points, 13 assists and 10 rebounds for his third straight triple-double as Cleveland (51-13) defeated Phoenix 119-111. James is tied with New Orleans’ Chris Paul for the league lead with six triple-doubles.
NBA Free Pick: Cleveland – View Game Matchup | Best Line: -10.5 SPORTSBETTING.COM
New Jersey Nets at Portland Trail Blazers, 10:05PM ET
A subpar effort on offense led to the Portland Trail Blazers’ first loss at home in 13 games. They’ll look to bounce back against a New Jersey Nets team that hasn’t been too impressive defensively of late.
Following one of their worst shooting games at the Rose Garden this season, the Trail Blazers host a struggling Nets team Friday night.
Portland (40-24) had its 12-game home win streak end Wednesday night, shooting 41.0 percent in a 93-89 loss to Dallas. It was the fourth-worst scoring game of the season for the Blazers at the Rose Garden, where they are averaging 102.2 points.
Portland, which has lost only six games at home, should have a good opportunity to get back on track versus New Jersey (28-36).
The Nets have lost five of six on the road, allowing 107.3 points per game during that stretch. They’ve given up 109.3 points a contest in dropping three of their last four overall.
NBA Free Pick: Portland – View Game Matchup | Best Line: -6.5 SPORTSBETTING.COM
Dallas Mavericks at Golden State Warriors, 10:35PM ET
Heading into its four-game western swing, Dallas had dropped five straight on the road and was hanging on to the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference.
Now, with a sizable lead over ninth-place Phoenix, the surging Mavericks are looking to move closer to earning home-court advantage in the first round.
Facing the slumping Golden State Warriors on Friday night should help them continue their push up the conference standings.
The Mavericks (40-25) are looking for their fourth straight victory after snapping Portland’s 12-game home winning streak, 93-89 on Wednesday. Dirk Nowitzki posted his second straight double-double with 29 points and 10 rebounds as Dallas improved to 2-0 on its road trip.
NBA Free Pick: Dallas – View Game Matchup | Best Line: +1 SPORTSBETTING.COM
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Posted: 3/13/09 2:05PM ET