Free Picks: NBA Best Bets of the Day 1/4/22

Indiana Pacers 14-23 at New York Knicks 17-20

The Pacers come into New York with a 4-game losing streak, so they are due for a win. They have been competitive in all 4 of those losses and obviously are as good as the Knicks. They have several players who are in COVID protocol and their status is up in the air for the game tonight.and that is a great win for this team. They are a hard-nosed bunch that play extremely well together. As of yesterday, Kyle Anderson is the only Memphis player on the COVID list.

The Knicks were on a 3-game winning streak, before losing in Oklahoma City and Toronto. COVID was part of the problem and it still is with Kemba Walker out for tonight. It isn’t clear whether Julius Randle will be back tonight but he could be available. Regardless of all of that, the Knicks need this game and the Pacers are 3-14 on the road.

New York is a 2-point favorite. I like the Knicks in this game and I like the point spread. I’m a little bit cautious of betting against the Pacers because they are due for a win. However, I’m going with the home team in this one.

PAPA DUDES PICK: New York -2

MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES 24-14 at CLEVELAND CAVALIERS 21-16

The Grizzlies head to Cleveland after demolishing the Nets last night 118-104. Point guard, Ja Morant dropped 36 and his teammates have won five in a row. They are a tough, physical team and are playing as well as anyone in the league.

The Cavs have lost 4 out of their last 6, but beat the Pacers in their last outing. They have been battling injuries and COVID and should be getting some players back. They are at home where they play well and are going to have bring it to win this one.

Cleveland is a 2.5-point favorite. The Grizzlies beat me last night in Brooklyn and I’m betting against them again tonight. I’m playing the angle of Memphis getting a big win over the Nets, and being a little tired, and having a letdown against a hungry Cleveland team.

PAPA DUDES PICK: Cleveland -2.5