Can Evan Mobley sustain his shot-blocking prowess as the Cavaliers take on the Nets this Sunday? I'm not so sure. While Mobley has been a tower of strength defensively, averaging 1.4 blocks overall in his last five games, his away-game performances depict a slightly different story. In his last five away games, he's averaged just 1.2 blocks - a subtle dip that suggests he might fall under the 1.5-line when in unfriendly territory. Moreover, it seems the Nets specifically have found ways to somewhat neutralize Mobley's shot-blocking prowess. Even when playing them on the road, he's averaged only 1.4 blocks. And let's not ignore the 7 out of 10 times he fell short of 1.5 blocks in his last ten games, and 5 out of 8 in recent away games. So, while Mobley is a tough competitor, betting on him to stay under 1.5 blocks seems like
James Harden (LA Clippers) Over 0.5 Steals (-278)
Odds available at fanduel at time of publishingSunday's matchup between the Brooklyn Nets and the Cleveland Cavaliers is shaping up to be a great day for James Harden. If you've been keeping a keen eye on Harden, you'd know his defensive form has been nothing short of impressive. The Beard's been picking up an average of 1.6 steals in his last five games overall, and 1.4 when playing at home. Against the Cavs? He's still holding strong with an average of 1.4 steals. The Cavaliers haven't been particularly tight with the ball either, conceding on average a steal per game in their last five away fixtures. And let's not forget Harden's spotless record: he's hit this mark in each of his last four games, and thrice in succession when playing at home. So, for those who like to bet with a bit of swagger, Harden swiping over 0.5 steals looks like a pretty solid play.
Terance Mann (Atlanta Hawks) Over 6.5 Points (-130)
Odds available at fanduel at time of publishingAllow me to steer your attention to Terance Mann of the Cleveland Cavaliers, who will be squaring off against the Brooklyn Nets this Sunday. This is one player who has been consistently surpassing expectations. Looking at the past, Mann has tipped the over 6.5 points in 14 of his last 19 games. That's a testament to his consistency and steady performance. Plus, when you consider that his last five games against the Nets saw him averaging 8.6 points, it's hard not to feel confident about this wager. Now, he may have averaged only 4.8 points over his last five outings overall, but don't let that cloud your judgment. Mann has a knack for raising his game when it counts, shown by his 5 out of 8 hit rate at home. So, for those seeking a calculated risk with a good chance of success, betting on Mann to score over 6.5 points is worth considering.
James Harden (LA Clippers) Over 1.5 Steals (+165)
Odds available at draftkings at time of publishingListen up folks, we're eyeing James Harden to rack up over 1.5 steals in Sunday's showdown between the Brooklyn Nets and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Now, I know what you're thinking: "Harden and defense, really?" But hey, the Beard's been quietly efficient in the theft department lately. Averaging 1.6 steals in his last five games overall, and 1.4 at home, he's showing a knack for snatching the ball that's hard to ignore. And his track record against the Cavs? Solid. He's notched up 1.4 steals on average in past matchups. Then consider this - the Cavaliers have been giving away the ball like it's on a silver platter, with a whopping average of 1 steal allowed in their recent away games. And let's not forget, Harden's been hitting this over with a resounding 9 out of 11 times at home. So, Harden over 1.5
Terance Mann (Atlanta Hawks) Over 9.5 Points + Rebounds (-132)
Odds available at fanduel at time of publishingWe're looking at Terance Mann to heat up the hardwood this Sunday, as the Cavs take on the Nets. Mann's not been a slouch lately, with an overall hit rate of 14 out of his last 19 games, comfortably surpassing our 9.5 mark for points plus rebounds. Sure, his last five overall averages may hover around 4.8 points and 2.8 rebounds, but when he squares up against the Nets, Mann seems to find another gear. His last five against Brooklyn shows an impressive average of 8.6 points and 3.8 rebounds. That's a combined average of 12.4 against our target of 9.5. Given that our model expects him to clock in at around 11.07, it's looking like a good day to bet on Mann going over. The Cavaliers' swingman is ready to swing for the fences, so let's ride that wave.