With the NBA season reaching its key point, the margin for error gets pretty close to zero. All teams are dealing and struggling with some injuries, and that could put their postseason chances — or positioning — in a tough spot.
Even so, there’s a reason why this is the greatest basketball league on the face of the Earth. Injuries leave the door wide open for unsung and unlikely heroes to step up and lead their teams to safe haven.
So, with the clock ticking and pressure to get the job done mounting up, we’re going to take a look at today’s slate and let you know our top picks for the most interesting matchups for Thursday.
Miami Heat vs Denver Nuggets
The Miami Heat must have this game marked on their calendars all season long, considering the Denver Nuggets beat them with ease in the past NBA Finals.
Now, they’ll get to face them in front of their crowd.
Nonetheless, the Nuggets have only gotten better this season, all while the Heat have been fairly inconsistent.
Erik Spoelstra is a great coach, but he doesn’t have the personnel to match up with Nikola Jokic and company.
Pick: Nuggets -3
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New Orleans Pelicans vs Cleveland Cavaliers
The New Orleans Pelicans are getting better when it matters the most and, more importantly, they’re getting healthier. That’s not what we can say about a Cleveland Cavaliers team currently missing three starters.
With Donovan Mitchell, Max Strus, and Evan Mobley still on the shelf, the door is wide open for the Pelicans to get a somewhat easy win in the Big Easy, especially if Zion Williamson continues to dominate.
Pick: Pelicans -6
Dallas Mavericks vs Golden State Warriors
The Golden State Warriors will be without superstar point guard Stephen Curry for the third consecutive game. They’re 1-4 in games without Curry this season, and things won’t get any easier against the Dallas Mavericks.
Jason Kidd has left a lot to be desired as a tactician and when it comes to making adjustments. Then again, the Warriors don’t have the firepower to keep up with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving out of the backcourt.
Pick: Mavericks -6
Sacramento Kings vs Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers will look to regain their supremacy over the Sacramento Kings.
Anthony Davis and LeBron James continue to deal with minor injuries, but they should still be able to suit up for this game.
The Kings are on the second night of a back-to-back, so there could be some tired legs here. The Lakers are playing their best defense of the season, and should get the win on the road in this matchup.
Pick: Lakers ML
