This article is part of our NBA Picks series.
Alex Barutha
Christian Wood under 18.5 points (-105) vs. Cavaliers -- DraftKings, 3:45 PM CT
Wood is averaging 20.2 points over his past 12 appearances, but I think he struggles against the intimidating frontcourt of Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. Mobley will be able to contain Wood from anywhere on the court, which is crucial since Wood likes to shoot threes. If he happens to blow by Mobley, Allen will be waiting for him at the rim.
Nick Whalen
Jarrett Allen OVER 17.5 points (+100) at Houston Rockets -- DraftKings Sportsbook, 11:00 AM CT
In general, I'm a big Jarrett Allen supporter, but this is more so about the matchup. Houston is the best combination of pace and terrible defense in the league right now, ranking 27th in defensive rating and first in pace over the last 10 games. Christian Wood wants no part of dealing with the Allen-Evan Mobley combination, and the Rockets have some of the shallowest frontcourt depth in the NBA. It's worth noting that Allen has scored 16 or fewer points in seven straight games, but that recent cold spell helps push this bet into plus territory.
