PREMIUM
The Coach's Friday NBA Trifecta
(NBA) New Orleans vs. Orlando,
Point Spread: 5.50 | -105.00 Orlando (Home)
Result: Win
Point Spread: 5.50 | -105.00 Orlando (Home)
Result: Win
The Orlando Magic will play their first game after the All Star break at home against New Orleans, and they will be a significant underdog in this spot. The Pelicans have really struggled on the road this year, and I am not convinced that they should be giving up so many points here in Orlando. New Orleans lost three straight and four of five before the break.
Here are my keys to the game:
1. Injuries - While the focus is on Anthony Davis as he recovers from a shoulder injury, it's important to note that Ryan Anderson and Jrue Holliday are also banged up, and neither play is expected to play tonight.
2. Nikola Vucevic - Orlando's leading scorer tallied 28 points and 18 rebounds in a win over the Knicks before the break, and without Davis, the Pelicans will have a tough time slowing down the seven footer.
3. X-Factor - The Pelicans have not been able to take advantage of inferior opponents on the road, failing to cover in five of their last seven versus teams with a sub .500 record.
Selection: This is a play on the Orlando Magic (8*)
Here are my keys to the game:
1. Injuries - While the focus is on Anthony Davis as he recovers from a shoulder injury, it's important to note that Ryan Anderson and Jrue Holliday are also banged up, and neither play is expected to play tonight.
2. Nikola Vucevic - Orlando's leading scorer tallied 28 points and 18 rebounds in a win over the Knicks before the break, and without Davis, the Pelicans will have a tough time slowing down the seven footer.
3. X-Factor - The Pelicans have not been able to take advantage of inferior opponents on the road, failing to cover in five of their last seven versus teams with a sub .500 record.
Selection: This is a play on the Orlando Magic (8*)