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

Toronto Maple Leafs (-323) over San Jose Sharks

The San Jose Sharks are on the road today, facing the Toronto Maple Leafs. With a record of 8-13-4, the Sharks haven’t had a strong start to the season.

They average just 3.00 goals per game but allow 3.44. Although they’re coming off a win over Montreal, the Sharks are heavy underdogs tonight.

At -323, the Toronto Maple Leafs are the clear favorites in this game. They have an overall record of 14-5-5 and are 7-2-3 on the road this season.

With four straight wins under their belt, they’re an easy pick for us. Look for the Maple Leafs to get off to a fast start and earn another home win tonight.

Los Angeles Clippers (+6) over Utah Jazz

The Clippers are the road team heading into this game and have a 13-9 record. On the road, they’ve gone 6-4 this season, which isn’t bad considering all the injuries.

Both Paul George and Kawhi Leonard have been ruled out of tonight’s game. John Wall and Luke Kennard also made the injury list. However, they’ve been winning games without these four players for a while.

The Utah Jazz, however, are on a five-game losing streak. Their most recent game was against the Chicago Bulls, and they lost 114-107.

They have a few players sidelined as well, Leandro Bolmaro and Mike Conley. Because of their recent performance, we’re going to take the Clippers over the Jazz today.

Los Angeles Lakers (-5.5) over Portland Trail Blazers

The Portland Trail Blazers are coming off a 118-112 loss to an injured Clippers team. Over their last five games, the Trail Blazers have gone 1-4.

With an overall record of 11-10, they’ll have to find an answer for Anthony Davis. Taking their last few games into consideration, we don’t think they’ll be able to.

Although the Los Angeles Lakers are coming off a 116-115 loss, they’re still a good team. They beat the San Antonio Spurs in back-to-back games not long ago.

With Davis leading the offense, the Lakers are in much better shape. LeBron James might still be sidelined, but they should be able to cover the spread.

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.