Free Picks: NBA Best Bets of the Day 1/3/22

Memphis Grizzlies 23-14 at Brooklyn Nets 25-13

The Grizzlies come into New York with a 4-game winning streak. They beat the Suns in Phoenix 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 Nets have lost two straight at home and Kevin Durant called his teammates out for their lackluster performance against the Clippers in their last outing. I’m looking for a much better effort in this game. Kyrie Irving is still out and, center, LaMarcus Aldridge is questionable with a foot injury.

Brooklyn is a 6.5-point favorite: I’m not entirely comfortable with this line because the Grizzlies have the capability to keep games close simply because of the style of game they play. But, they have won 4 straight and there due for a loss, and Brooklyn is due to play well at home where they are a mediocre 10-8.

PAPA DUDES PICK: Brooklyn -6.5

Orlando Magic 7-30 at Chicago Bulls 24-10

The Magic head to Chicago with a 7-30 record and they coming off a game last night, where they blew a late lead and lost in overtime to Boston. I can’t imagine them being able to get ready to play this game. They have lost five in a row and there is little chance they end that streak tonight. The only question is if they can beat the spread.

The Bulls are one of the best teams in the league and are led by DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine who are averaging close to 50 points a game between them. They have won in 7 in a row and currently have the No.1 seed in the NBA Eastern Conference.

The Bulls are a 14.5-point favorite. I usually don’t bet this high a spread on the favorite, but in this case I’m making an exception. My worry is if the Bulls will be taking this game seriously enough to cover the spread. If they are ready, they should cover this easily.

PAPA DUDES PICK: Bulls -14.5