Xam’s Gem(s):
Heat Money Line -118
The Heat finally got their 1st win of the season back on November 3rd. They have played in several close games this year, however. They have 3 losses by a combined 20 points this year. The Lakers are coming off a game where they completely no-showed against the Magic. Both of the losses this year for the Lakers have come on the road, and their offense has been inconsistent this year. The Heat should be able to do enough to slow down LeBron and Anthony Davis. The Heat are also getting it together offensively, scoring 114 or more points in 2 of their last 3 games.
Xam’s Prop(s):
Joel Embiid Over 28.5 Points -114
Embiid is averaging over 30 points per game this season, as another dominant offensive season is taking shape for him. Embiid had 26 in 3 quarters in his last game against the Suns, but sat the 4th quarter. He should be well rested heading into this game. There is blowout potential in this game, but if the 76ers have to stay engaged all game, Embiid should be able to do enough to hit this number.
Cam Thomas Over 1.5 Made 3s -154
This game is shaping up to be a high scoring affair, so Thomas will have his opportunities. The Nets will need to keep pace with a dynamic Milwaukee offense, and we all know Cam Thomas isn’t afraid to shoot. Thomas hasn’t been super-efficient from beyond the arc, but he has 22 3-point attempts in his last 3 games. We know Thomas is capable of getting hot, and the Nets will need him to show up if they’re going to pull off an upset against the reigning champions.
Austin Ekeler Over 35.5 Receiving Yards -110
The Jets have an elite pass rush and the Chargers have a banged up offensive line. This should equate to short passes from Herbert, and there’s perhaps no better pass catching running back than Ekeler. Ekeler has 6 or more targets in 2 of his last 3 games, and had 7 catches for almost 100 yards last week against Chicago. Herbert will need to get the ball out quick and keep the Jets elite pass rush off balance.
Justin Herbert Over 249.5 Passing Yards -110
Herbert has gone over this number in each of his last 2 games, and in 4 of his last 6 games. The Jets have a great defense, and they’ve played extremely well against some elite QBs, but everyone knows Herbert and the Chargers love slinging the ball around, and taking deep shots down the field. The Chargers will need their star QB to help them win this game. Even without Mike Williams, the Chargers still have plenty of weapons, including Austin Ekeler, maybe the best catching running back in the NFL.
Zach Wilson Over 12.5 Rushing Yards -110
Wilson has at least 14 rushing yards in each of his last 4 games, and has as many as 36 rushing yards in a game this year. The Jets have a very banged up offensive line, and the Chargers, led by Joey Bosa, can get after the quarterback. Wilson isn’t afraid of taking off, and he will have to tonight. The Chargers have 4 sacks or more in 4 of their 7 games this year.