The Lab The small number belongs to the Clippers
The small number belongs to the Clippers
A short spread and a rest edge make the home dog worth backing against the cleaner recent story.
Down 4.8 units going into this slate. Ugly, not mysterious.
A short spread gets my attention before a shiny payout does. That is especially true when the favorite has the tidier recent form but cannot create much separation on the board. New Orleans owns the cleaner surface case. The number still leaves a door open for the home side, and I am walking through it.
New Orleans Pelicans at LA Clippers
LA Clippers +103 at DraftKings is the dog I will take tonight. The Clippers are getting 1.5 points at home, which puts an outright result within reach without asking for a miracle. They have had 3 days off, while New Orleans has had 1. The Pelicans are 4-5, and their latest game ended in a 109-115 loss to the Timberwolves. The Clippers stand at 1-7, but their last home game against the Heat was decided 116-117. This is a thin edge, not a flattering resume. I will take the Clippers at +103.
What beats it: New Orleans brings stronger recent results, and the Clippers have several listed players out.
The Pelicans will have backers because their recent work looks better. Fair enough. I am not buying a favorite on this short spread when the home side has had 3 days to reset. The Clippers need to turn a close game into their own result. That is the part I am willing to stand behind.
Prices as captured Sunday, Nov 8 at 9:00 AM ET. Adults 21 and over only. This is research and entertainment, not a recommendation to bet.
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