NBA Predictions: Mavericks-Clippers to be Defensive Struggle? 2/5/18
Will tonight’s NBA matchup between the Mavericks and Clippers turn into a defensive struggle?
The Odds: Mavericks at Clippers, 10:30 p.m. ET, Monday
According to oddsmakers, the Clippers are 6-point home favorites for tonight’s game. They opened as 5-point favorites but the line has climbed a full point at most sportsbooks. As for the total, the number hit the board at 213.5 but was bet down a full point to 212.5.
Dallas enters play with a 17-36 overall record and a 7-18 mark on the road. Los Angeles, meanwhile, is 26-25 overall and 15-12 at home. From a betting standpoint, the Mavericks are 26-26 against the spread and 14-10 ATS on the road. The Clippers are 28-22 at the betting window this season, including 14-13 ATS at home.
As of Monday afternoon, 54% of the betting tickets wagered at online sportsbooks are on the Clippers to cover the spread. Meanwhile, 54% of the betting tickets wagered at online sportsbooks are on the over.
Dallas Mavericks Injury Report
Harrison Barnes is questionable to play tonight due to an ankle injury. Nerlens Noel, meanwhile, has been ruled out with a thumb injury. Both Seth Curry (shin) and Dorian Finney-Smith (knee) are both out as well.
Los Angeles Clippers Injury Report
Austin Rivers is out with an Achilles injury. Patrick Beverley is also out for the year with a knee injury. Finally, Jawun Evans (abdominal) is questionable.
Our Prediction
The under is 7-0 in the Mavericks’ last seven games playing on one day of rest. The under has also cashed in six of their last seven games overall. Finally, the under is 4-1 in their last five games against Western Conference opponents.
On the other side, the under is 4-0 in the Clippers’ last four games overall. It is 5-2 in their last seven games playing on one day of rest. The under is also 4-0 in Los Angeles’ last four games after allowing 100 points or more in its previous contest.
Monday NBA Prediction: Clippers/Mavericks under 212.5
