We are just 2 days into 2026 and already the NBA is treating us with a massive 10-game slate on Friday night. Prime Video will also have a double-header starting at 7.30 pm ET between the Cavaliers and Nuggets, followed by a Western Conference clash between the Thunder and Warriors at 10:00 pm ET.
I have done some research on all 10 games being played this evening and have picked out my best bet for every single one. Be sure to check our NBA picks for predictions on the side and total, but now let’s get into my bets!
Spurs vs Pacers Best Bet: De’Aaron Fox 2+ made threes (-192)
With Wemby out, Fox is once again the primary scoring option for the Spurs. He has connected on at least a pair of threes in 17 of 25 games played, so I feel quite confident he will add to that run in Friday’s game.
Nets vs Wizards Best Bet: Michael Porter Jr. Over 3.5 threes (-130)
MPJ’s numbers in December were really impressive. He averaged 4.8 threes per game on 47.5% efficiency. Being the #1 option on offense has done wonders for his confidence. He sat out last night’s game against the Rockets to be fully ready for the Wizards.
Nuggets vs Cavaliers Best Bet: Nuggets +13.5 (-106)
People are quick to write off the Nuggets because of Jokic’s absence, but just like we saw against Toronto they still have capable players. The Cavaliers have been far too unreliable for me to back them. Denver keeps it close on the road.
Hawks vs Knicks Best Bet: Kristaps Porzingis Over 13.5 points (-108)
KP just returned from illness and made an instant impact in the big win over Minnesota. This should be a fairly easy line for him to clear, playing against his former team. He has done it in 13 of 14 games played, a success rate of 93%.
Magic vs Bulls Best Bet: Magic -4.5 (-110)
Josh Giddey is out for Chicago. The Bulls did beat the Pelicans in their last game, but Orlando will be a way more difficult challenge. Expect Banchero and Bane to carry the Magic on the road in this one.
Hornets vs Bucks Best Bet: Bucks -6 (-112)
Just 4 days ago the Bucks beat the Hornets by 10 points. They are now 8-2 SU in 10 meetings and are on a 5-game home winning streak against this team. Giannis is healthy and playing, and Milwaukee needs the win to make up ground in the race for the postseason.
Trail Blazers vs Pelicans Best Bet: Trail Blazers ML (-112)
New Orleans has dropped 5 in a row, most recently losing to a Bulls team without Giddey. Unlike the Pels, Portland still has something to play for here.
Kings vs Suns Best Bet: Suns -12.5 (-115)
Sacramento has 3 loses on the bounce, all by double-digits. The Kings are the league’s worst three-point shooting team, going up against a Suns squad that ranks in the top 10 in threes made and accuracy.
Thunder vs Warriors Best Bet: Thunder -7.5 (+100)
Curry is questionable after turning his ankle against Charlotte, while Draymond Green is officially out. OKC has put the 2 losses to San Antonio behind it by winning the last 3 games by double-digits. Give me OKC all day in this matchup.
Grizzlies vs Lakers Best Bet: Lakers -3.5 (-110)
Although they have a bunch of role players and Austin Reaves out injured, I still like the Lakers. Doncic has owned the Grizzlies averaging 33.3 points, 9.7 rebounds and 7.9 assists. That includes a 44-point, 12-rebound and 6-assist explosion in the first meeting this season. It’s hard to bet against those kinds of numbers.
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