This article is part of our NBA Picks series.
Alex Barutha: Rockets on the moneyline (-189) vs. POR -- BetMGM 1:12 PM CT
The Rockets are getting Christian Wood back for this game, and he should have no problem carving up the Trail Blazers terrible defensive frontline headlined by Enes Kanter. DeMarcus Cousins should see fewer minutes, but he could go for a 15-and-10 game in 20 minutes -- Portland is that bad at center. It's not clear if John Wall is still on a minutes restriction, but a Wall plus Victor Oladipo backcourt should be able to outplay a Damian Lillard plus Rodney Hood backcourt. It's just impossible to trust the Blazers in their current state.
Nick Whalen: Eric Gordon OVER 17.5 points vs. POR (-110) -- DraftKings Sportsbook
I've learned over the years of playing fantasy that trusting Eric Gordon isn't always the best idea, but I like how things line up against the shorthanded Trail Blazers. Gordon has reached the 20-point mark in each of his last five games. He's launching more than seven three-pointers per game during that span, but more importantly he's insulating his scoring with 5.6 trips to the free throw line. Over the last three games alone, Gordon has attempted 25 free throws. Meanwhile, Portland has the second-worst defensive rating (118.4) in the league over its last five games, and it's allowing opponents to shoot better than 48 percent from the field during that span. It'll be close, but I like Gordon's chances to push his 20-plus-point streak to six games.
Jeff Edgerton: Reggie Jackson OVER 5.5 ASSISTS (MGM Sportsbook, 7:30 a.m. ET) AND LAKERS (-10.5) Over PISTONS (FD Sportsbook, 7:30 a.m.)
I expect Jackson to remain the facilitator with both Kawhi Leonard and Paul George sidelined. He had eight assists in the last game of its scenario, and he's the obvious candidate to direct the offense.
Unless Jerami Grant posts a career game, I don't see the Pistons making this game close. Wayne Ellington's three-point excellence isn't sustainable, and the Lakers will look to remount a winning streak after a stinging loss to the Sixers.
