Both teams struggle to contain penetration, protect the rim, and finish defensive possessions. Milwaukee brings more offensive talent, but Charlotte can absolutely score in bunches at home. A total near 228.5 only needs a reasonably efficient, competitive game to clear. Given poor defensive metrics on both sides and likely free-throw and second-chance scoring, the Over is the play.

Phoenix is clearly the more talented and deeper team. Washington’s offense remains turnover-prone which is discouraging against a physical Suns defense. With Phoenix favored by double digits and owning most matchup edges, this is not a spread to second guess. Phoenix can and they should clear this line comfortably, they are the superior side.

Denver needs a bounce back performance after losing in crunch time to the Magic. They’ve owned the Heat in recent years winning 11 consecutive meetings. In 16 meetings they’ve covered 13 times, including in 8 straight at Kaseya Center.

This is all about the Rockets. Indiana’s season has been ruined by injuries, they are pretty much eliminated from playoff contention even after just 30 games played. Houston has won back-to-back games after dominant displays on the defensive end, I’m backing them to win their 10th home game in 13 outings.