NBA Picks Tonight: Expert Bets (Friday, March 8)

We have eight games on the docket tonight, and I've found my favorite spread and player prop. Check out my NBA picks for Friday night's action below.

NBA Picks Tonight: Expert Bets (Friday, March 8)

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The Knicks will get a big boost with the return of Jalen Brunson, who is listed as questionable with a knee contusion after practicing on Thursday. The Knicks are 7.0 points better with Brunson on the court than off.

This also sets up as a letdown spot for the Magic, who have won and covered five straight games. According to our Action Labs data, road favorites that have covered five games in a row are 35-56-3 (38%), failing to cover by an average of 2.7 points per game since 2004.

I'd bet this to a pick'em.

Pick: Knicks +1.5

Whitmore has come on strong as of late, averaging 15.5 points per game in 20.3 minutes per game over his last 16 games.

The under-drafted 20th overall pick is averaging a 29.1 usage rate since the All-Star break and has seen his playing time tick up, as well. He has posted at least 13 points in 12 of his past 16 games and at least 14 points in 11 of his past 16. Whitmore could also benefit from a few extra minutes if Houston can open up a big lead on the shorthanded Blazers.