NBA Friday picks - November 29
The NBA is back in action on Friday with a packed slate of games after taking the night off for Thanksgiving, and we’ve got three plays for you to dive into. Whether you're looking at team trends or individual performances, this slate offers plenty of opportunities to cash in. Let’s break down the NBA best bets to be made on Friday, November 29.
Predictions
Pick #1: Charlotte Hornets vs New York Knicks Over 227.5 (-110)
Pick #2: OG Anunoby Over 19.5 Points (-110)
Pick #3: Boston Celtics vs Chicago Bulls Over 238.5 (-110)
Pick #1: Hornets vs Knicks Over 227.5 (-110)
This matchup screams offense and we’re banking on the Over at 227.5 total points. The Knicks have quietly turned into an Over machine in recent games, despite ranking just 27th in pace. Thanks to their second-ranked offense and 23rd-ranked defense, New York has seen six of its last eight games hit the Over. Even one of the recent Unders reached 227 points, meaning the offensive production has been consistently strong. The Knicks’ Jalen Brunson is at the heart of their offensive surge, creating easy scoring opportunities both for himself and his teammates.
On the other side, the Charlotte Hornets, led by LaMelo Ball, bring a defense ranked 19th in the league and have gone Over in five of their last six games. Four of those games saw totals exceeding 230 points, showcasing their ability to contribute to high-scoring affairs. While neither team plays at a breakneck pace, their efficiency on offense more than makes up for it. With both teams hitting their stride offensively, this matchup is primed to soar past the total.
Pick #2: OG Anunoby Over 19.5 Points (-110)
Prior to Wednesday’s 3-of-15 shooting outing, OG Anunoby had been on an absolute tear, and his scoring prop at 19.5 points feels like a steal given his recent volume. The Knicks’ versatile forward is averaging just 19 points per game this season, but his offensive role has increased dramatically in the last two weeks.
Against the Denver Nuggets on Monday, Anunoby exploded for 40 points on an efficient 16-for-23 shooting performance, including five made threes. That followed a 27-point game where he shot 10-for-19 and nailed seven threes. Over his last six games, Anunoby has surpassed the 24-point mark in four contests and has been shooting lights-out, hitting 50% or better from the field in each of those games.
The Hornets' defensive struggles should only bolster Anunoby’s chances of another big performance. Charlotte ranks in the bottom half of the league in defensive rating and will have their hands full trying to contain New York’s other weapons. This leaves Anunoby with plenty of opportunities to continue his hot streak. With his elite three-and-D skill set and a growing offensive game, he’s a solid bet to eclipse 19.5 points.
Pick #3: Celtics vs Bulls Over 238.5 (-110)
This matchup between the Boston Celtics and Chicago Bulls is tailor-made for the Over, and the total of 238.5 points feels too low for two teams with explosive offenses.
The Celtics boast the NBA’s third-ranked offense and lead the league in both three-point attempts and makes per game. With Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porziņģis anchoring the offense, and plenty of rest coming into this one, Boston is capable of lighting up the scoreboard in Chicago.
Meanwhile, the Bulls rank 28th in defense and are second in pace, ensuring there will be plenty of possessions for both teams. Chicago’s ability to push the tempo combined with Boston’s sharpshooting makes for a perfect recipe for points. Adding to the case for the Over, Chicago is among the league leaders in three-pointers allowed, which plays right into Boston’s strengths.
Even though the Bulls are at home, the Celtics are the significantly better team and should be able to dictate the flow of the game. With both teams trading buckets all night long, this game has all the makings of a high-scoring affair that easily clears the 238.5 total.
