NBA Picks Tonight: Expert Bets (Friday, March 8)

NBA Picks Tonight: Expert Bets (Friday, March 8) article feature image
Credit:

Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images. Pictured: Jalen Brunson.

We have eight games on the docket tonight, and I've found my favorite spread and player prop. Check out my NBA picks for Friday night's action below.


NBA Picks Tonight: Expert Bets (Friday, March 8)

GameTime (ET)Pick
Orlando Magic LogoNew York Knicks Logo
7:30 p.m.
Houston Rockets LogoPortland Trail Blazers Logo
10 p.m.
Specific betting recommendations come from the sportsbook offering preferred odds as of writing. Always shop for the best price using our NBA Odds page, which automatically surfaces the best lines for every game.

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Magic vs. Knicks

Orlando Magic Logo
Friday, March 8
7:30 p.m. ET
NBA League Pass
New York Knicks Logo
Knicks +1.5
bet365 Logo

The Knicks will get a big boost with the return of Jalen Brunson, who is listed as questionable with a knee contusion after practicing on Thursday. The Knicks are 7.0 points better with Brunson on the court than off.

This also sets up as a letdown spot for the Magic, who have won and covered five straight games. According to our Action Labs data, road favorites that have covered five games in a row are 35-56-3 (38%), failing to cover by an average of 2.7 points per game since 2004.

I'd bet this to a pick'em.

Pick: Knicks +1.5



Rockets vs. Trail Blazers

Houston Rockets Logo
Friday, March 8
10 p.m. ET
NBA League Pass
Portland Trail Blazers Logo
Cam Whitmore Over 12.5 Points (-108)
FanDuel Logo

Whitmore has come on strong as of late, averaging 15.5 points per game in 20.3 minutes per game over his last 16 games.

The under-drafted 20th overall pick is averaging a 29.1 usage rate since the All-Star break and has seen his playing time tick up, as well. He has posted at least 13 points in 12 of his past 16 games and at least 14 points in 11 of his past 16. Whitmore could also benefit from a few extra minutes if Houston can open up a big lead on the shorthanded Blazers.

Pick: Cam Whitmore Over 12.5 Points (-108)
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About the Author
Chris, who's from the Bronx, New York, is a Senior Editor at The Action Network and a co-host of the show “I’ll Take That Bet” on ESPN+. He’s watched every snap of every NFL game since 2010.

Follow Chris Raybon @ChrisRaybon on Twitter/X.

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