The NBA and NHL continue to ramp up as we move through the year’s first half. With a few big games scheduled, let’s look at how we think three matches will play out.

Phoenix Suns (+2) over Miami Heat

The Phoenix Suns are underdogs in this game which is rather surprising. Although they’re on the road, they have a better record than the Miami Heat. The Suns are 8-4 this season while the Heat are 6-7. To be fair, the Suns are coming off a 114-97 loss to the Orlando Magic a few nights ago. They also have a loss to the Philadelphia 76ers under their belt.

The Miami Heat just beat the Charlotte Hornets 132-115. They played two games in a row against the Hornets and won both of them actually. Prior to those wins, they lost to both the Portland Trail Blazers and Indiana Pacers. Because of this, and their 6-7 record, we’ll go with the Suns +2.

Atlanta Hawks (+4) over Milwaukee Bucks

The Atlanta Hawks might be underdogs but don’t underestimate them. Of all the teams in the NBA, the Hawks have one of the highest-scoring offenses. They have an 8-5 record this season and are 3-3 on the road. A few nights ago, however, they lost 121-109 to the Philadelphia 76ers. Had it not been for that loss, the spread in this game would be smaller.

The Milwaukee Bucks also suffered a recent loss. They played the San Antonio Spurs and lost 111-93. They’ve gone 3-2 over their last five games, the same record as the Hawks. The big problem is all of the injuries the Bucks have suffered. Sidelined today are players like Pat Connaughton and Jrue Holiday. Take the Hawks at +4 over the Milwaukee Bucks.

Colorado Avalanche (-213) over St. Louis Blues

At this point in the season, the St. Louis Blues have a record of 5-8-0. The good news for the Blues is they’ve won their last two games. Their most recent win was a 3-2 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights. Prior to that, they pulled off a 5-3 win over the San Jose Sharks. Still, even with those wins, they’re averaging 2.38 goals per game this season.

The Colorado Avalanche have won their last four games this season. In this time, they’ve beaten the Columbus Blue Jackets, the Nashville Predators, and the Carolina Hurricanes. As a team, they’re averaging 3.69 goals per game. On defense, they’re allowing just 2.69 goals per game, so take the Avalanche -213.

All odds are courtesy of Action247 Sportsbook. Good luck!!

* All odds provided by Action247 Sportsbook and all odds subject to change.
**All views expressed are my own. My picks are my own and are not a guarantee, bet at your own risk.