The Houston Rockets, despite a strong run of 12 wins in their last 13 games, are considered underdogs against the Los Angeles Lakers in Monday`s NBA matchups. Coming off a dominant 148-109 victory over Phoenix, Houston is currently ahead of Denver for the second spot in the Western Conference. However, they face a 5-point spread as underdogs, according to SportsLine Consensus NBA odds, as the Lakers aim to capitalize on their recent 134-127 win against Memphis. Monday`s NBA schedule is expected to feature tight contests with most game spreads within single digits, starting with four games at 7 p.m. ET and culminating in the Lakers versus Rockets game at 10 p.m. ET.
An advanced model from SportsLine has simulated each NBA game on Monday to identify the top NBA picks. Combining three of these selections into a parlay bet could yield returns of nearly 6-1. This model boasts an impressive track record, with a 153-113 record on top-rated NBA picks since last season. Below are the model`s recommended best bets for NBA parlays for Monday.
Top NBA Bets for Monday, March 31
Clippers (-2.5) vs Magic
Score Prediction: Los Angeles 109, Orlando 102
The Clippers are fiercely competing for playoff positioning in the Western Conference. While Kawhi Leonard missed Sunday`s game, he might return on Monday. Leonard has been a key player recently, averaging 24.6 points and 6.9 rebounds in his last 15 games. Norman Powell is also in form after a 34-point game. The model predicts Leonard to score close to 20 points on Monday, increasing the Clippers` chances to cover the spread in 60% of simulations.
Celtics (-4) vs Grizzlies
Score Prediction: Boston 116, Memphis 109
The Boston Celtics are currently playing exceptionally well, having won 8 straight games and 13 of their last 14. They hold the league`s best road record at 31-7 and are coming off a win against San Antonio. Conversely, the Memphis Grizzlies have struggled, losing 5 of their last 6 games and recently fired their head coach. The model anticipates Boston to maintain their winning momentum and cover the spread in nearly 60% of simulations.
Thunder (-15) vs Bulls
Score Prediction: Oklahoma City 125, Chicago 105
The Oklahoma City Thunder have dominated Eastern Conference opponents this season with a 27-1 record. They are on a 9-game winning streak and could potentially reach 70 wins for the season if they win their remaining games. Even after securing the Western Conference title, they continue to perform strongly, winning their last five games by an average of 19 points. The model predicts another dominant win for the Thunder, expecting them to cover the spread over 60% of the time.
Looking for More NBA Picks?
These are just some of the model`s best bets for Monday. For comprehensive spread, total, and moneyline picks for every game, consult the model that simulates each game 10,000 times.
Jasper Hawthorne