The NBA continues to ramp up as we’re heading into the first portion of the year. After a few significant injuries, we’re going to take a look at how we think three games will play out.

Dallas Mavericks (-5.5) over New Orleans Pelicans

Although the Dallas Mavericks have yet to win a game on the road, tonight is the perfect night. They’re facing the New Orleans Pelicans who will be without Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. With those two out, Luka Doncic, who is averaging 33.5 points per game, should have a great outing. It’s also helpful that the Mavericks will only have to cover 5.5 points.

The New Orleans Pelicans have a 2-1 record but haven’t won at home yet. Their leading scorer is CJ McCollum, who averages 23.3 points per game. They’re coming off of a 122-121 loss to the Utah Jazz which is the game that Ingram and Williamson got hurt. Prior to that, the team won back-to-back games over the Charlotte Hornets and Brooklyn Nets.

LA Clippers (-9.5) over Oklahoma City Thunder

With a 2-1 record this season, the LA Clippers are looking pretty strong so far. The only problem is Paul George is already out with an injury. He and Marcus Morris Sr. will both be out for this game but they still come in as 9.5-point favorites. George led the team in points per game (23.7) but as a team, they average just 103 points per game.

The LA Clippers aren’t the only team dealing with several injuries. The Oklahoma City Thunder are also without several players. Forward Jalen Williams, PG Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and SG Josh Giddey have all been ruled out. With these players sidelined, the Clippers should be able to win and cover the spread.

Phoenix Suns (-2.5) over Golden State Warriors

This one is actually a tough one to call considering both teams are playing well. The Warriors are the road team in this one but have yet to play a game on the road. They’re 2-1 on the season with their only loss being to the Denver Nuggets. They bounced back from that loss with a 130-125 win over the Sacramento Kings.

The Phoenix Suns also have a 2-1 record but they’re playing at home tonight. They’re coming off a huge 112-95 win over the LA Clippers as well. Tonight, they’ll get the chance to make a statement by taking down the Golden State Warriors. Considering the Warriors are without a few players, the Suns are the better pick.

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.