Plenty of surprises have already bobbed up in the NBA this season, and there could be more in store for this Friday’s matches. BetDeluxe identifies all the movers and shakers ahead of a big day of basketball.
Wizards vs. Mavericks
11th November 11:00AM
For much of its recent history, Washington has been unable to break out of its lower to middle ranking, which is where it finds itself at the moment.
After three successive losses, including a heavy defeat at the hands of Brooklyn, the early signs are that the Wizards won’t make the jump just yet.
But they will be boosted by the return from illness of Bradley Beale. They’ve also had a recent discovery in the shape of Jordan Goodwin, who has steadily improved this season, posting some career-best numbers.
Goodwin and the Wizards will face a stern test from Dallas in this game, showing it has what it takes to win the clutch games. That ability to come through late in games is in no small credit to Luca Doncic, who averages 36 points and more than eight rebounds and assists per game as he looks set to be a serious contender for the MVP race.
Other parts of the Mavericks outfit are yet to click, but they have seen some big signs from Australian Josh Green, who is shooting the lights out and could be set for another big game here.
Suggested Bet: Mavericks -3.5 at $1.94
Hawks vs. 76ers
11th November 11:30AM
Atlanta has largely gone under the radar this season, but their winning record speaks for itself, and they have quickly become a force in the Eastern Conference. An upset win over Milwaukee to bring the Bucks’ undefeated run to an end was a statement performance from the Hawks, even without star Trae Young. Dejounte Murray is playing an impeccable defensive game.
Young should be fit and raring to go for this one as the Hawks look to continue their giant-killing ways against a Philadelphia team missing an injured James Harden.
Their focus will be on reducing the output from Tyrese Maxey, who has been devastating from the field. Joel Embiid has been up and down this season, and the 76ers hopes rest heavily on him. But even if he does show up, some smart money would be resting on the Hawks to win this one.
Suggested Bet: Atlanta to win at $1.82
Heat vs. Hornets
11th November 11:30AM
The fall of Miami is one of the season’s biggest mysteries so far. Apart from a surprise win over Golden State, there hasn’t been much to write home about for the Heat. Recent losses to Indiana and Sacramento have been concerning.
Caleb Martin hasn’t settled into the starting five, Kyle Lowry can’t find his groove, and Victor Oladipo is yet to take to the court this season. They can get things on track against a Charlotte team that has also struggled this season. They are sorely missing LaMelo Ball, who can’t shake an ankle injury, and while Kelly Oubre jr and PJ Washington have shown flashes, it hasn’t been enough to generate any real momentum.
Suggested Bet: Miami to win at $1.17
Pelicans vs. Trailblazers
11th November 12:00PM
New Orleans remains one of the league’s most frustrating mysteries, and that reputation has only grown this season. A win over the Warriors closes either side of losses to the Lakers and the Pacers and only highlights the inconsistency that continues to plague them.
The most significant piece of their puzzle is Zion Williamson’s fitness, who is finding some continuity. With Bradon Ingram and Herb Jones slowly building their minutes after interruptions, the Pelicans could be a force before we know it.
They have a big challenge against a Portland team that has performed above expectations this season. Damian Lillard has the strongest support cast around him for years, with Jerami Grant, Josh Hart and Anfernee Simons all playing more significant roles than they have in the past. The Pelicans may have the buzz, but the Blazers have the record and are the bet here.
Suggested Bet: Portland to win at $3.30
