Desert Dweller Sports Network

View Original

NBA Turn Up: Play-In Friday

New series: NBA Turn Up

Thanks to those that take the time to read. Please, follow along on our socials and good luck to us!

NBA Playoffs Record: (5-6)

  • 6:00pm cst: Chicago Bulls vs. Miami Heat (-5)

The Bulls put on a courageous comeback led by Zach LaVine to defeat the Toronto Raptors on the road. It all started with the defense from Alex Caruso and Patrick Williams. The defensive intensity by picking the ball up from full court putting pressure on the Raptors’ guards set the tone. LaVine did the rest on the offensive end to make the victory possible. On the other side, Miami got railed by Atlanta at home in an embarrassing performance. Will the Heat show up tonight? Will the Bulls’ momentum carry over? If Chicago plays defense like they did in Toronto then I fully expect them to win especially due to the Heat’s lack of offensive fire power. The Bulls have also won and covered the last three games against Miami. Too many points here, I like the Bulls’ toughness, which was something Miami didn’t show against Atlanta. If you are into having more props then I suggest Vucevic points over, LaVine points over. The Official play will only be DeMar.

Pick: Bulls +5

DeMar DeRozan Over 22.5 Points (-120)

  • 8:30pm cst: Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (-5)

The Thunder are young and inexperienced but they pulled off a great win on the road against the Pelicans. SGA was missing in action until the 3rd quarter. If Gilgeous-Alexander is locked in for the full game I love OKC here. Lu Dort probably won’t play like Kevin Durant offensively so I expect the Williams’ to step up a bit more especially Jalen (Santa Clara). The Timberwolves once again showed their inexperience. They played a great game against the Lakers despite Anthony Edwards shooting blanks and Minnesota as a team trying to give the game away in the 4th quarter. Karl Anthony-Towns can’t close games! It happened last season and appears it is happening again. Rudy Gobert is also back with the team who is terrible and a cancer in the locker room. I want nothing to do with this team. I love the Thunder tonight.

Pick: Thunder +5

Thunder ML +170

Josh Giddey Points, Rebounds & Assists Over 36.5 (-125)

***The other games will be posted once more lineup information is available.