NBA Picks November 2015 (November 9-15)

I mentioned last week that my new way of breaking down the NBA Picks will be on a week by week basis rather than having one thread covering the month's picks. Those tended to get lost in the muddle and were also frustratingly long to read.


This is certainly the time of the season when the NBA takes a backseat to College Football and the NFL as those seasons are beginning to get down to the critical points. It has been a commonly held fact that the top teams don't really want to gel together until after the All-Star Break when they begin to look ahead to the Play Offs and all of the early stuff is just jostling for position.

No Seeds can be wrapped up in January, but a poor start can certainly make life uneasy and that is especially the case for the teams in the loaded Western Conference.


There isn't much to say about the picks last week after a 6-1 run in the final three days reduced the losses from a really poor opening to the week. Hopefully I can build on that momentum going into this week and get the season totals back moving in the positive direction.


Monday 9th November
San Antonio Spurs @ Sacramento Kings Pick: There is no doubting that it will take Gregg Popovich and the rest of the San Antonio Spurs a little time to figure out how best to employ LaMarcus Aldridge. The big off-season acquisition from the Portland Trail Blazers is trying to gel with his team-mates in the early portion of the season and the Spurs are certainly a team that will look to be in much better shape as a team come later in the season.

They have been there and done it so often that no one can seriously doubt the credentials of this team and Head Coach. After a disappointing loss in Washington snapped a three game winning run, San Antonio were back to winning ways against Charlotte, but now head off for another two game road game.

The first is at the Sacramento Kings who are missing key player DeMarcus Cousins and are still getting a new look team on the same page. Five straight losses against some of the best teams in the Western Conference has suggested the Kings are still looking to bridge the gap to become a genuine Play Off contender and the absence of Cousins really makes this a very difficult game for them.

Sacramento have only lost two of those five games by double digits, but Golden State were nine point winners meaning three of the five teams would have covered this number. The Spurs are playing well enough to do that too and have a solid 7-2 record against the spread in their last nine in Sacramento.

Add the fact that San Antonio are a solid 17-7 against the spread as a big road favourite in the last couple of years and I like the Spurs to earn a big win here.


Tuesday 10th November
The San Antonio Spurs put in a big effort in the Fourth Quarter to secure the win and the blow out.

Utah Jazz @ Cleveland Cavaliers Pick: Both teams have had a couple of days to get ready for this game which should mean the likes of LeBron James and Derrick Favors are able to go. Big players are what the fans are paying for so seeing these guys out there is great for the fans and both Utah and Cleveland have a few days before their next game.

Both teams have also made a very good start to the new season, but it is the Cavaliers with the momentum behind them after putting together six straight wins. Utah have played well too at the start of the season so they can't be dismissed easily, but the Cavaliers have the better talent level and should be too strong.

However, I have to be a little wary that Cleveland are generally over-rated at home because the books know they will get money on the Cavaliers. They are just 1-3 against the spread in home games, but I think this is a number they can cover even if the game will be close for a while.

With a few days until they visit the New York Knicks, I expect Cleveland to look to keep their momentum going and I think they win this by double digits.


Boston Celtics @ Milwaukee Bucks Pick: The Milwaukee Bucks are home underdogs against the Boston Celtics and I think they are in a good spot to cover in this one. The Boston Celtics are on the first of a back to back set when they host the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday and they might be looking ahead to that game having lost a close one to them last week and with revenge on the mind.

A quick road stop in Milwaukee before returning home to Boston might not be the ideal spot for the Celtics too. They haven't been the best road favourite to back as the Celtics have a 2-7 record against the spread in the last couple of years when favoured by 3 points or fewer on the road.

Boston have played well here, but Milwaukee are the team who have won four straight games to get their season moving in the right direction. The Bucks have played well on both sides of the ball in those wins, although it has to be accepted that Boston are the best team they have played in that run.

The Bucks have gone 3-1 against the spread in those four wins and I like them to potentially win this one outright as the underdog.


Charlotte Hornets @ Minnesota Timberwolves Pick: They might be at home, but the Minnesota Timberwolves have had to travel back from a stunning win in Atlanta. The Timberwolves had to dig deep to beat Atlanta after blowing a big lead in that game and now the Charlotte Hornets could take advantage.

The Hornets have won five of their last six games against the Minnesota Timberwolves and that includes two of their last three visits to Minnesota. This is the end of a three game road trip for Charlotte and they are back at home tomorrow which might take some of the focus, but I still like the spot that the road team are in.

Charlotte are 3-2 against the spread in recent years as a small road favourite while Minnesota are 5-8 against the spread as the small home underdog. The Timberwolves have played twice at home and have yet to cover and I think their young players may struggle to pick themselves up emotionally from a battle last night.

With Golden State Warriors the next visitors to the Target Center, I look for Charlotte to perhaps take advantage of tired minds and legs and win on the road.


Wednesday 11th November
It was a frustrating Tuesday as Cleveland missed a number of Free Throws and the Utah Jazz kept hitting their shots late in what was an eventual four point win for the Cavaliers.

Milwaukee were disappointingly blown out by the Boston Celtics, but Charlotte did take advantage of their spot to at least salvage something for the day.

New Orleans Pelicans @ Atlanta Hawks Pick: Anthony Davis could potentially become the latest in a long line of New Orleans Pelicans who are unable to go after picking up an injury in the win over the Dallas Mavericks. With no rest time between games and a potentially short-handed rotation heading to the Atlanta Hawks, it is no surprise that the home team are favoured by as many points as they are.

The spread looks to be moving upwards as more and more people understand how big an absence Davis will be for New Orleans, but I wouldn't be comfortable letting it move much further.

I have to give New Orleans credit in being competitive in their games recently and being beaten by double digits isn't easy in the NBA. However, they are 0-2 against the spread in the second of back to back games this season and Atlanta have won a few games by wide margins.

The Hawks are also looking to bounce back from a disappointing home loss to Minnesota as the big favourite, but they are 16-10 against the spread in that spot in recent seasons and I like them to cover.


Golden State Warriors @ Memphis Grizzlies Pick: When you're as good as the Golden State Warriors, even a little bit of motivation like being disrespected as Champions will see your team pummel opponents. That is the way they have opened the season as they remain unbeaten and look to put the hammer down on the Memphis Grizzlies for a second time.

The Grizzlies were arguably the team that gave up the Golden State Warriors most to think about in the Play Offs last season on their run to the Championship, but the Warriors have blown them out once already. Memphis have played better since that blow out defeat in the Oracle Arena and now have home court to support them.

Mario Chalmers could make his debut and give the Grizzlies a little more shooting, but it is tough to keep up with Golden State at the best of times. Memphis are a Defensive team, but the Warriors can spread them out and hammer them from the three point arc and that has led to a couple of big wins in Memphis during the Western Conference Semi Finals.

Memphis aren't a great home underdog to back, but they are rarely dogged by this many points so I expect them to be plenty motivated, including because of that blow out loss earlier in the season. However, I think Golden State have too much scoring and can win this by double digits.


Detroit Pistons @ Sacramento Kings Pick: I think the Detroit Pistons could be one of the surprise packages in the Eastern Conference this season and Stan Van Gundy should be expecting a Play Off spot at the very least. This is the third road game in four days which can be tough, but the Pistons have been playing well during this Western Conference swing and can put in a big effort knowing they have a few days to rest before their next game.

Andre Drummond versus DeMarcus Cousins looks the big match up in this one, but I am still surprised that the Sacramento Kings are set as the home favourite considering how each team has been playing. Add in the fact that Cousins only just returned from a four game absence and Drummond might be able to win that match up and give the Pistons the edge.

I can't dismiss the fact that Sacramento have had a tough schedule to open the season as they continue to fit Rajon Rondo into their system alongside Rudy Gay and DeMarcus Cousins. Even with that in mind, the Kings might be surprised they have allowed at least 100 points in every game this season and that makes things tough against a Detroit team that has been good Defensively.

The Pistons have won five in a row against Sacramento and have won four of their last five here outright. Detroit are 9-6 against the spread as a road underdog of three points or fewer while the Kings are 3-8 against the spread as a small home favourite.

I'll take the points on offer here.


Thursday 12th November
It was a frustrating Wednesday to back up a frustrating Tuesday... Basically Atlanta didn't start playing until the second half and won by eight points against a short-handed opponent, while Detroit couldn't recover from a poor first quarter in their loss.

Golden State Warriors continue to be a popular team to back with another easy win over the Memphis Grizzlies and look to have come into this season with back to back Championships firmly their goal.

Golden State Warriors @ Minnesota Timberwolves Pick: My sole pick on Thursday night sees me go back to the well with the Golden State Warriors despite this being a back to back set for them. However, the chance to make a franchise record ten straight wins to open the season is in front of them as they visit the Minnesota Timberwolves and this is a Golden State team playing with a lot of passion and heart despite coming in as reigning Champions.

That might have seen Golden State perhaps make a slow start, especially with Head Coach Steve Kerr out with a back injury. Instead they haven't missed a beat and a second convincing win over Memphis this season means the Warriors should have enough energy for a second consecutive road game on a back to back.

Minnesota were expectedly not quite ready for their last home game and that has seen them drop to 0-3 at the Target Center this season. Their last two losses have both come by double digits, but they should be boosted by the return of Ricky Rubio, Andrew Wiggins and Nikola Pekovic.

It should make the Timberwolves more competitive and this young team will want to give the Champions all they can handle. However, Golden State are 9-3 against the spread in their last twelve visits to Minnesota and I think the motivation for creating a new franchise record of wins to open the season sees the Warriors pull this out.

The experience they have should see them roll with the punches as this young Minnesota team takes it to them, but I expect the Warriors become the third straight visiting to win by double digits in this Arena.


Friday 13th November
The Golden State Warriors blew a nineteen point lead in the middle of the third quarter and looked to be letting the Minnesota Timberwolves hang around for long enough to secure a backdoor cover. However, Stephen Curry continued his hot start to the new season to hit a couple of big shots and the Warriors moved to 10-0 behind a thirteen point win.

Minnesota Timberwolves @ Indiana Pacers Pick: A poor first quarter saw the Minnesota Timberwolves behind the black ball against the Golden State Warriors on Thursday. However, the exuberance of youth saw them challenge the defending Champions the rest of the way, get within five points of them before Stephen Curry made some big plays late to see the Warriors come through.

This is the fourth game in five nights for Minnesota and putting in the effort they did to stay competitive against the Golden State Warriors will have an effect in this game. Minnesota are 0-1 against the spread in the only back to back game they have played this season and getting up for the challenge against the Indiana Pacers will be tough as they travel on Friday.

The Pacers have won five of their last six games to start showing what kind of effect the changes made in the off-season can have. They have a couple of days rest before they have to play again so Indiana should be ready to come out and compete on their home floor.

Indiana's last two wins have come by double digits and they have backed up upset wins by going 3-0 against the spread in their next game this season. The Timberwolves are 9-12 against the spread when set as the road underdog of between 6.5 and 9 points in recent years, although they have to be respected for going 4-0 against the spread as the road underdog this season.

However, I think fatigue plays a part in this one and putting in such a physical and emotional effort on Thursday might be tough to pick themselves up again. That should lead to Indiana winning this game by more than seven points.


Cleveland Cavaliers @ New York Knicks Pick: As a New York Knicks fan, the expectation might not have been great going into the season, but the early season suggests more could be in play. Kristaps Porzingis might not have been the player most fans would have Drafted last June, but he has made a stunning start to his life as a New York Knick and there are plenty of positives with this team to like.

They still don't look like an Eastern Conference contender, but a Play Off berth is certainly in their reach if the Knicks can maintain this form through the next few months. This game gives them a chance to see if they have improved in the last week having already lost to the Cleveland Cavaliers on the road by ten points.

LeBron James, like many other superstars in the NBA, loves playing in the magic of Madison Square Garden. James has been essential in helping a banged up Cleveland team win seven straight games and this looks a team with the depth to win it all this season.

Cleveland haven't covered in their last five games and their last three wins have come by a combined fourteen points since beating the Knicks by ten at home. However, I do think the Cavaliers are the stronger team when it comes to the depth they have and I like their chances of beating the Knicks by double digits for a second time this season.

The Cavaliers are well rested and have covered 17 of 27 games with at least two days rest between games. I really expect the Knicks to challenge them through three quarters, but Cleveland to prove too strong and pull away in the fourth to cover this number.


LA Lakers @ Dallas Mavericks Pick: The Dallas Mavericks made a point by beating the LA Clippers in their last game, but this looks a difficult spot for their team. Coming off an emotional game that meant a lot to face a terrible team before hitting the road to play the Houston Rockets on Saturday makes it difficult to understand their focus in this game.

Of course any time the LA Lakers visit town it is going to be a big deal regardless of their 1-7 record and what looks another difficult season in the making. Kobe Bryant might be restored to the starting line up as the Lakers conclude this five game road trip and try to snap an eight game losing run to the Dallas Mavericks.

The Lakers have shown some fight in their last four road games with only one seeing them lose by double digits, although they have lost three of those games. With the spot as it is, I think the Lakers can be competitive in Dallas who will be looking ahead to the big game with Houston on Saturday.

Dallas had blown out the Lakers in three straight home games with a close one on Boxing Day last year. The Mavericks are not a very strong big home favourite to back and they are 8-15 against the spread when coming off an upset win.

We can at least see the Lakers are 11-8 against the spread when set as the road underdog of between 6.5 and 9 points and I think they might be getting too many here. Kobe's return would be huge and the Lakers can catch Dallas between two 'bigger' games and perhaps take advantage of a lack of focus against a team they have dominated in recent games.


Saturday 14th November
A highly frustrating Friday as the Indiana Pacers blew a 17 point lead going into the fourth quarter to barely hang on and win rather than produce the convincing cover.

Thankfully the LA Lakers did just enough to stay within their point spread, while Cleveland did pull away in the fourth quarter as anticipated but could produce a push when it came to the spread.

Should have been so much better than 1-1-1, but at least it wasn't worse than that else I really would have thought the Friday the 13th Curse had hit me.

Denver Nuggets @ Phoenix Suns Pick: The Denver Nuggets have surprised the Houston Rockets twice already this season, but they will want to have a much better response than the first time. Denver were crushed by almost twenty points by the Minnesota Timberwolves following the road win in Houston and now they are on a back to back in Phoenix after holding off Houston on Friday.

The Nuggets are just 14-20 against the spread in the second of back to back games in recent seasons, while they are 0-3 against the spread following an upset win this season.

Phoenix are off an easy win over the LA Clippers at home, although their visitors were certainly shorthanded, and they have a strong 6-1 record against the spread against Denver in the last seven games.

This is a team that has thrived after a dominant win and I think the Suns are well-rested and can take advantage of Denver having to travel here and trying to back up a big win as an underdog. It's a fair few points to cover, but I do like the Suns being able to do that.


Sunday 15th November
Boston Celtics @ Oklahoma City Thunder Pick: The Oklahoma City Thunder may have to get used to playing without Kevin Durant if the rumours are true about his impending Free Agency next summer. However, they have already gotten a little too used to missing Durant through injury after he was ruled out for much of last season and he is now out for the next week at least.

That hasn't stopped the Thunder so far as Russell Westbrook has once again put this team on his back and helped the team win their first game without Durant. This is another big challenge for him as he faces the Boston Celtics who are a solid Defensive team and coming with some confidence having beaten the Atlanta Hawks at home a couple of days ago.

Boston are on a quick two game road trip on Sunday and Monday but the key for them in facing a couple of Western Conference teams is whether the Celtics have enough scoring to keep up. Even without Durant, the Thunder can score plenty of points and it is part of the reason they are 4-1 against the spread in the last five games between these teams.

The Thunder are a decent home favourite when favoured by six points or fewer at home. Add in the fact that Boston are 2-7 against the spread when coming off a double digit win as the underdog and I like Oklahoma City to cover.


Toronto Raptors @ Sacramento Kings Pick: It all seems calm in Sacramento after a blow up between DeMarcus Cousins and George Karl looked certain to end with one of them leaving, most likely the Head Coach. Winning does that though and back to back home wins over two of the lower Eastern Conference teams will give them confidence, although now the Kings face a better team in that Conference.

The Toronto Raptors had lost three in a row, but they won back to back games against two of the weaker teams in the NBA to try and right their ship. I am a little concerned they visit the Golden State Warriors next on the schedule and could look ahead to their shot at the unbeaten defending Champions, but the Raptors have to respect the Kings in front of them.

With DeMarcus Cousins, Rajon Rondo and Rudy Gay, Sacramento have talent but they never seem far away from controversy. Cousins might not have a free reign to dominate the boards which could take away some of his Offensive game, while Toronto also have plenty of scoring to challenge the Kings.

Toronto are 7-3 against the spread as the road favourite being asked to cover three points or fewer while Sacramento are 4-8 against the spread as the home underdog of three points or fewer. With the Raptors building momentum ahead of the Golden State game, I will call for them to continue it here and cover.

MY PICKS: 09/11 San Antonio Spurs - 8 Points @ 1.91 Bet Victor (1 Unit)
10/11 Cleveland Cavaliers - 6 Points @ 1.91 Bet365 (1 Unit)
10/11 Milwaukee Bucks + 2 Points @ 1.95 Bet365 (1 Unit)
10/11 Charlotte Hornets - 1.5 Points @ 1.91 Betway (1 Unit)
11/11 Atlanta Hawks - 10 Points @ 1.91 Bet365 (1 Unit)
11/11 Golden State Warriors - 7 Points @ 1.91 Ladbrokes (1 Unit)
11/11 Detroit Pistons + 1.5 Points @ 1.91 Paddy Power (1 Unit)
12/11 Golden State Warriors - 8 Points @ 1.95 Betway (1 Unit)
13/11 Indiana Pacers - 7 Points @ 1.91 Paddy Power (1 Unit)
13/11 Cleveland Cavaliers - 6 Points @ 1.91 Ladbrokes (1 Unit)
13/11 LA Lakers + 8.5 Points @ 1.90 Bet Victor (1 Unit)
14/11 Phoenix Suns - 7 Points @ 1.91 Bet Victor (1 Unit)
15/11 Oklahoma City Thunder - 5.5 Points @ 1.91 Sky Bet (1 Unit)
15/11 Toronto Raptors - 2.5 Points @ 1.91 Bet365 (1 Unit)

November 9-15 Update: 6-7-1, - 1.59 Units

November 2-8 Final: 7-8, - 1.59 Units
November Update: 7-8, - 1.59 Units

October Final: 5-4, + 0.57 Units
Season 2016: 12-12, - 1.02 Units

Final Season 2015: 109-108-5, - 6.91 Units

Final Season 2014: 58-72-1, - 16.86 Units

Final Season 2013: 105-93-3, + 10.49 Units

Final Season 2012: 79-53-1, + 27.48 Units

NBA Picks November 2015 (November 2-8)

Over the last few years I have put all of my monthly NBA Picks under 'November Picks', 'December Picks' etc etc, but I have decided it might be wise for a slight change this time to make it easier to read as well as update.

So I will break down the month picks on a weekly basis so a new thread begins on a Monday and ends on a Sunday, or whenever the month ends.

One it should make it easier to follow, two it doesn't mean the monthly picks are lost in the mix and three it will mean the posts are not ridiculously long.


The first few days of the NBA season have been interesting as some teams have surprised while others have been a let down.

It is an eighty-two game season though so the first three games won't break any team, plus I always think they want to get into a groove by February. However, the Western Conference is definitely not a Conference in which you want to give everyone a big lead so it is an important month for the likes of the Houston Rockets.


It was a mixed start for the picks, but October ended with a profit and I will take that every week. Hopefully the first week of November follows suit.


Monday 2nd November
Portland Trail Blazers @ Minnesota Timberwolves Pick: The young and exuberant Minnesota Timberwolves have been able to handle the emotion of the opening games of the season. Flip Saunders' passing casts a heavy shadow over the franchise and he was laid to rest on Saturday, but Minnesota have produced two great performances for their former Head Coach.

This is the first home game of the season for Minnesota and Saunders will be honoured through the night which is likely to give the home team another emotional lift. Kevin Garnett has kept the younger players focused and I think the Timberwolves are the better team of the two taking to the court.

The Portland Trail Blazers are unlikely to challenge for a Western Conference Play Off berth having lost some key figures of their starting line up from last season. It will likely be an inconsistent season for them but Damian Lilliard can take over a game and they will be dangerous if the last few days have gotten on top of Minnesota.

Minnesota are 3-1 against the spread in their last four home games against Portland and I like the Timberwolves to cover.

Memphis Grizzlies @ Golden State Warriors Pick: The Golden State Warriors have come out with a major chip on their shoulders which isn't usually associated with a team that dominated the NBA as much as they did last season. They were the deserving Champions, but too many teams have disrespected their achievements and the Warriors look like a team that is looking to win back to back Championships without being challenged.

Stephen Curry has been shooting lights out in the new season and the Warriors have won three games in a row by double digits. It seems strange that they are not being asked to cover a bigger number in this one against the Memphis Grizzlies despite the improvement in the last couple of games for the Grizzlies.

However, beating Indiana and Brooklyn won't prepare you for the Golden State Warriors and the Grizzlies were blown out by Cleveland. Visiting the Oracle Arena is going to be difficult at the best of times, but this is a Warriors team that didn't just win games, but won by big margins last season.

When the Warriors have been set as home favourites of between 6 and 9.5 points, they are 15-7 against the spread in recent spots and I like them to win this by at least ten points.


Tuesday 3rd November
The Minnesota Timberwolves may have just had too much emotion to overcome in their loss to the Portland Timber Wolves, especially as they blew a big First Quarter lead.

On the other hand, the Golden State Warriors proved they are still a dominant team by blowing out the Memphis Grizzlies easily thanks to a dominant Third Quarter.

Chicago Bulls @ Charlotte Hornets Pick: The Charlotte Hornets were expected to struggle without Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and their opening three games have all ended in losses. It has to be remembered that the last two games have been close against the Atlanta Hawks, but now they face a Chicago Bulls team that is has been better Offensively to open the season.

It wasn't a great performance from them on that side of the ball in the win over the Orlando Magic last time out, but the Bulls did win which is important for them. One concern for Chicago has to be that they are not really a great road favourite to back, but they are 6-2 against the spread in their last 8 games in Charlotte.

I also do like the way Chicago have bounced back from failing to cover as the home favourite, especially when they win that game straight up. They are 9-6 against the spread in that spot and they are the better team in this game, but another concern I do have is this being a one road game between home games for the Bulls.

Charlotte have been Offensively challenged though and I think Chicago have enough to win this by four or more points.

Indiana Pacers @ Detroit Pistons Pick: When a team basically changes their philosophy and style in one off-season, it is always going to be a learning curve for them. The Indiana Pacers have looked to improve Offensively by going to a smaller line up, meaning the likes of David West and Roy Hibbert have moved on, but the team have had their difficulties to open the season.

Compare that with the Detroit Pistons who look more like a Stan Van Gundy team that has the dominating presence in the paint and the three point shooters around him. Andre Drummond should have a big impact in the game as the reigning Eastern Conference Player of the Week won't have anyone of the size to match up with him and the Pistons look like they have every chance to move to 4-0.

The difference in this game could be the Defensive side of the court where Detroit have played well. Van Gundy still wants more cohesion Offensively and this is still a dangerous Pacers team that might get hot very quickly, but the edge certainly seems with Detroit heading into the game.

Detroit are 4-1 against the spread in the last 5 games between these teams and I will look for them to extend that run here.

Orlando Magic @ New Orleans Pelicans Pick: One of these teams will finally get off the mark in terms of wins for the season and I have to say I favour the home town New Orleans Pelicans to be that team. It is unfortunate scheduling that they have run into the Golden State Warriors twice in their first three games and this is the 'easiest' game New Orleans would have played so far this season.

As talented as the Orlando Magic look, young players are prone to mistakes at key times or consistent nights shooting the basketball. They have been competitive in all three losses against teams that will be expected to be challenging for Play Off spots, but that can take its toll mentally.

Alvin Gentry is still trying to make his mark with the New Orleans Pelicans since arriving as Head Coach in the summer, but he would have seen some positive signs. The team is banged up a little to open the season which is a concern, but they look in the better spot of the two teams knowing they have time to prepare for their next game while Orlando play again on Wednesday.

New Orleans have responded to heavy home losses by going 6-4 against the spread in their next game, while they are 6-1 against the spread when hosting Orlando. I like them to find a way to secure a narrow cover on Tuesday.


Wednesday 4th November
That was an embarrassing day and goes to show when I need to think about the gut feeling a little more... I should never have picked Chicago in a bad spot, but was more disappointed with both Detroit and New Orleans who played some rubbish basketball.

It happens though so hopefully Wednesday will be a bounce back spot after some poor picks so far this week. The four losing picks have all had their issues and I have to take a portion of the blame for a couple of them.

LA Clippers @ Golden State Warriors Pick: Out of all the teams talking the loudest about how 'lucky' the Golden State Warriors had been in the post-season, the LA Clippers were the loudest. Now the Warriors have come out in the new season with a real chip on their shoulder and have been blowing out some teams, but this is the game they would have circled.

The fans in the Oracle Arena are loud on a normal night, but the atmosphere is going to be electric on Wednesday. Of course I imagine the Clippers are looking to make a statement too, but their 4-0 start to the season hasn't seen them face a team like the Warriors who will test the depth of the rotation which has been a key area the Clippers have looked to improve.

This Golden State team is also one that will blow out many a team at home this season and have done the last couple of years and they need to be given more points than they have in this one. Any time they are not getting double digit points to cover at home makes them appealing and the motivation to blow out the Clippers and make a statement can't be ignored at all.

Golden State are 17-5 against the spread in their last 22 games at home against the LA Clippers and they can put together a big win in this one.


Thursday 5th November
It has been a pretty poor couple of days for the NBA Picks with four straight losing plays after the LA Clippers put together a big effort after half time which meant they were only beaten by four points.

Miami Heat @ Minnesota Timberwolves Pick: After falling just short in a comeback against the Portland Trail Blazers in their opening home game, the Minnesota Timberwolves are back at home but are now the underdog. I am not convinced they should be even if this young team has been put through the ringer over the first few days of the season.

The Miami Heat certainly look like one of the better teams in the Eastern Conference, although still having some room to bridge to get closer to the Cleveland Cavaliers. They have a strong, experienced starting line up that will give the youthful Timberwolves plenty to think about, but Miami have not been a great road favourite to back in recent years.

In saying that, Minnesota haven't exactly thrived as a home underdog, but the quick flip from a favourite to an underdog could work for a team that will want to prove themselves. Dwyane Wade is questionable for the game and Miami are on the road tomorrow night in Indiana too so they might be able to be caught by the Timberwolves in a bad spot here.

This is a small spread, but I do think Minnesota can come up as the dog.

Charlotte Hornets @ Dallas Mavericks Pick: There is no doubt that the Dallas Mavericks are going to need time to gel together with a number of new faces joining in the summer. Wesley Matthews and Deron Williams are both banged up which means their minutes are restricted as is Chandler Parsons, but they are looking to bounce back from an opening home loss.

It does look a good game for the Mavericks to bounce back even if the Charlotte Hornets won their first game of the season last time out. However, I am not sure that game was something of a mirage and I still think the Hornets have some work to do.

They impressed in front of owner Michael Jordan, but this is the beginning of a road trip and Dallas have bounced back from two previous losses this season with impressive wins. They were outplayed by the Toronto Raptors in their home opener, but Dallas are better than they showed.

Dallas have won 11 in a row at home against Charlotte and only one of those wins have come by fewer than five points. I like the Mavericks to bounce back and beat Charlotte and cover the spread at home.


Friday 6th November
What a poor week to say the least. Can't seem to catch a break either, but to be honest, these have been some horrific picks. Hold my hands up to that!

Toronto Raptors @ Orlando Magic Pick: Both teams are perfect at the window going into the game, but I like the home underdog Orlando Magic to maintain their run.

All the credit in the world has to be given to the Toronto Raptors in being the last undefeated team in the Eastern Conference, but this looks a bad spot for them in between big games with Oklahoma City and Miami.

I can't imagine focus is a problem at this stage of the season, but Orlando have been a covering underdog and this looks a big number for the Raptors to get above. Orlando don't have a great covering record against Toronto at home, but did last time they played here and can do so again.

Atlanta Hawks @ New Orleans Pelicans Pick: I've been really disappointed with the way the New Orleans Pelicans have opened the season, but you have to say injuries are hindering what Alvin Gentry is trying to ask his team to do. Losing to Orlando at home was more than a hiccup and a much stronger Eastern Conference team visits town on Friday.

Now I would have expected the Atlanta Hawks to perhaps stumble out of the blocks a little after the way the season ended for them last season. However, they have looked like they have learnt from their experiences and look like a contender in the East.

This is a one stop road game before returning home on Saturday to face a rival Washington team which worries me a little. However, they look the better team and I like the Hawks to cover a small number against an injury-hit team still trying to plug the leaks.

Detroit Pistons @ Phoenix Suns Pick: The Pistons let themselves down against the Indiana Pacers in the last game, but I think they might be getting too many points in their visit to the Phoenix Suns.

It has been a solid start to the season for the Suns, but I am not sure how good this team actually is. It will be am emotional game for their best player Markieff Morris who welcomes his brother back to Phoenix having seen Marcus traded to Detroit in the summer in a move that upset Markieff greatly.

Take away that stinker against Indiana and Detroit have been playing well to open the season and I will take the points on offer.


Saturday 7th November
The first few days of the week were pretty terrible to be perfectly honest, but Friday at least turned things around somewhat with all three teams picked not just covering, but actually winning their games outright.

Hopefully I can build on that over the weekend and turn this week completely on its head, but it is a long season and it will only work if teams hit my criteria.

New Orleans Pelicans @ Dallas Mavericks Pick: Neither of these teams have been playing to the level that they would have expected to be in the early portion of the season. The New Orleans Pelicans are dealing with a number of injuries which isn't helping their cause, while the Dallas Mavericks are keeping some of their better players on limited minutes as they recover from injuries.

Even with those issues in mind, not many would have picked New Orleans as being 0-6 at this stage of the season after reaching the Western Conference Play Offs last season. They are also trying to pick themselves up from a narrow home loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Friday when rallying in the Fourth Quarter and that kind of effort for a short-handed line up could hurt on a back to back.

The Dallas Mavericks are looking for their first home win of the season having lost back to back games at the American Airlines Center. They have been shooting poorly in their last couple of games, but this is a Pelicans Defensive unit that haven't had an easy time in shutting down opponents.

Dallas are 8-3 against the spread in their last 11 games against New Orleans, and while the Pelicans have been a decent pick in back to back games, they should come up short in this one.

Brooklyn Nets @ Milwaukee Bucks Pick: The Brooklyn Nets were expected to be one of the weaker teams in the NBA this season, but now the pressure is building on Lionel Hollins as they try and snap their winless start to the season. It doesn't get any easier when they visit the Milwaukee Bucks who have won three in a row to get back to 0.500 and once again look a Play Off contender in the weak Eastern Conference.

Jason Kidd has led his team to a 4-1 record against Brooklyn since leaving that post as Head Coach and the Bucks are 4-0-1 against the spread in those games. With his team improving in recent games and earning an impressive win at Madison Square Garden on Friday night, Milwaukee have momentum behind them.

It had to have hurt the Nets in losing to the LA Lakers at home on Friday as they were favourites to win that and there is clearly something not right here. Bad moves in the off-season haven't helped and the Nets will do well to reverse their 3-8 run against the spread in their last 11 in Milwaukee.

Both teams had tough games on Friday, but the winning feeling and the home advantage could be key for Milwaukee and I like the Bucks to cover.


Sunday 8th November
After a really miserable run to open this week, five straight winning picks has at least pulled it around. One more day of this weekly thread to go and I have two picks from the Sunday slate of games.

LA Lakers @ New York Knicks Pick: Both of these big market franchises are in the midst of a rebuild to try and turn them back into Championship material, but it has to be said that the New York Knicks look considerably further along than the LA Lakers.

Both sets of fans have to accept there will be a lot more downs than ups this season, but it can be tough to see a team lurch from one disaster to another. The Lakers at least snapped their winless start to the season by beating Brooklyn last time out and are facing a Knicks team off the back of three straight losses.

However, it is the Knicks who have generally been more competitive and they have had the more difficult schedule early in the season.

The New York Knicks are 4-0 against the spread in their last four home games against the LA Lakers and I think my team can win this one.

Phoenix Suns @ Oklahoma City Thunder Pick: This is a big game for the Oklahoma City Thunder who are trying to get snap a three game losing run and I like them to do that against the Phoenix Suns.

This has been an inconsistent start to the season for the Phoenix Suns, but they have to expect that with some of the moves they have made in the off-season.

The Suns are a team that is solid to back as the road underdog and they have a decent record against the Oklahoma City Thunder going 5-2 against the spread in the last 7 meetings.

However, it has been some late collapses that haven't helped the Thunder in recent games and controlling those should see them dominate this game and win by double digits.

MY PICKS: 02/11 Minnesota Timberwolves - 5.5 Points @ 1.91 Coral (1 Unit)
02/11 Golden State Warriors - 8.5 Points @ 1.91 Ladbrokes (1 Unit)
03/11 Chicago Bulls - 3.5 Points @ 1.91 William Hill (1 Unit)
03/11 Detroit Pistons - 5 Points @ 1.91 Paddy Power (1 Unit)
03/11 New Orleans Pelicans - 3 Points @ 1.91 Ladbrokes (1 Unit)
04/11 Golden State Warriors - 7.5 Points @ 1.91 Coral (1 Unit)
05/11 Minnesota Timberwolves + 3.5 Points @ 1.91 Bet Victor (1 Unit)
05/11 Dallas Mavericks - 4 Points @ 1.91 Paddy Power (1 Unit)
06/11 Orlando Magic + 6 Points @ 1.95 Boyle Sports (1 Unit)
06/11 Atlanta Hawks - 2.5 Points @ 1.91 Coral (1 Unit)
06/11 Detroit Pistons + 4.5 Points @ 1.91 Bet Victor (1 Unit)
07/11 Dallas Mavericks - 4.5 Points @ 1.91 Paddy Power (1 Unit)
07/11 Milwaukee Bucks - 5.5 Points @ 1.91 Ladbrokes (1 Unit)
08/11 New York Knicks - 4.5 Points @ 1.91 Bet365 (1 Unit)
08/11 Oklahoma City Thunder - 8.5 Points @ 1.91 Bet365 (1 Unit)

November 2-8 Update: 7-8, - 1.59 Units

October Final: 5-4, + 0.57 Units
Season 2016: 5-4, + 0.57 Units

Final Season 2015: 109-108-5, - 6.91 Units

Final Season 2014: 58-72-1, - 16.86 Units

Final Season 2013: 105-93-3, + 10.49 Units

Final Season 2012: 79-53-1, + 27.48 Units

NBA Picks November 2013

There are times during the regular season, which is long enough, when you have to take a step back and take stock of the picks made and figure out what has gone wrong, especially when going on a poor run. That was the situation for me at the end of October as the first four picks went down, but two of those were down to ridiculous late efforts and collapses from teams and I decided to let the season settle down somewhat.

Indiana failed to cover my first pick by allowing a three pointer with time running out, while the Knicks somehow blew a huge 25 point lead against Milwaukee and won by 7 points when they were being asked to cover 8... In both games, the losing team decided not to foul down the stretch and send Indiana/New York to the foul line either so they were a couple of bad breaks.

To be honest, the first week of November was filled with erratic games too and so I took a watching brief, but like I said above, the hope is that the season will settle down now and teams can get on with the tough months ahead.


Teams have also had surprising starts with Miami already having 3 losses and the New York Knicks starting off 2-4. The Western Conference looks the more competitive of the two, while the LA Lakers will be desperately hoping that Kobe Bryant can return in the near future to spark what could be a terrible season for the franchise.


November 12th
Washington Wizards @ Dallas Mavericks Pick: I wouldn't at all be surprised if both of these teams combined for over 200 points in this game as both have certainly been better in the opposition half of the court than they have when it comes to Defensive unity.

Of the two, Dallas at least have something to build on when it comes to the Defensive side of the court after their performance against Milwaukee. They are also facing a team that might be a little down after blowing a definite win on Sunday night at Oklahoma City and I like Dallas to cover.


November 13th
Charlotte Bobcats @ Boston Celtics Pick: The momentum is all with Boston heading into this game and I do think they are capable of making it 5 in a row against a Charlotte team that is still trying to find their identity on Offense.

Boston have found a good formula with Avery Bradley and Jordan Crawford in the back-court and I like the Celtics to cover.


New York Knicks @ Atlanta Hawks Pick: The New York Knicks have struggled since Tyson Chandler was injured and also have a big game on national television tomorrow so they look in a bad spot here.

The fact that are playing a team with a front-court as big as Atlanta's won't help the Knicks and second chances to score should be dominated by the Hawks. I expect them to dominate the boards and I think the Hawks cover in this one.


November 14th
Oklahoma City Thunder @ Golden State Warriors Pick: Oklahoma City haven't shown much Defense in their last three games, and that could be exposed by the Warriors who have been blowing teams out in front of their own fans.

The Thunder will need some scoring from Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook to make this a game and we could see the total points surpassed.


November 15th
Minnesota Timberwolves @ Denver Nuggets Pick: It is never easy facing Denver in the altitude of Colorado, but the Timberwolves are scoring a lot of points and are playing very well over the last week.

The spread just looks too low here and I think Minnesota win and cover.


San Antonio Spurs @ Utah Jazz Pick: San Antonio have been playing some of the best basketball in the Western Conference and they have won 3 in a row by wide margins.

They should be able to roll against the struggling Utah Jazz including 3 blow outs in a row before their win over New Orleans. I expect the Spurs can go into their extended break after this game with continued momentum behind them.


November 19th
It has summed up the early season that I would pick Atlanta to beat the Knicks and they play like crap and lose, but two days later blow out the same team on the road. More late backdoor covers haven't helped my early mood when it comes to the NBA so far this season.

Atlanta Hawks @ Miami Heat Pick: The Miami Heat have begun to turn up the, errr, Heat on the Defensive side of the court and LeBron James is playing at a monster level. I guess he doesn't want to talk about his future by giving the media something else to write about and I like Miami to win and cover if they maintain the Defensive effort of recent games.


Minnesota Timberwolves @ Washington Wizards Pick: About the only time Minnesota have failed to cover in recent games was when I picked them, but hopefully that hex is broken on Tuesday night. The Timberwolves have been wiping teams out with an Offensive output that is hard to match, although I hope they remain focused with a big game against the LA Clippers tomorrow night.


November 20th
Indiana Pacers @ New York Knicks Pick: The New York Knicks have been playing really badly and they need a big improvement to match the Indiana Pacers in this one. Indiana have had a few days to recover from the loss to the Bulls and will want to put on a bigger effort in this one and I like them to win this one and cover.


Miami Heat @ Orlando Magic Pick: The NBA has had some strange results in the opening month of the season, including a number of teams blowing huge leads. However, the Miami Heat have been picking up the form that we have come to know of them and I think they can cover again tonight.

I have respect for Orlando in the way this young team gives their all in every game, but the Heat are rolling at the moment.


November 22nd
Cleveland Cavaliers @ New Orleans Pelicans Pick: The New Orleans Pelicans have a big game in a few days time at the San Antonio Spurs, but have been scoring a lot of points since Ryan Anderson returned to health. They should be too strong for Cleveland who are on a short road trip at two Western Conference teams and I like them to cover the points.


November 25th
Chicago Bulls @ Utah Jazz Pick: It was confirmed that Derrick Rose is going to miss the rest of the season and while they play a team that completely sucks in Utah, the Chicago Bulls might not be ready to win a game as favourite here. It's the last game in the West before a couple of road games against Eastern Conference teams and I'll take the points with Utah.


New York Knicks @ Portland Trail Blazers Pick: One of the most disappointing teams in the first month of the season are the New York Knicks and I have to keep fading a team that is still missing the likes of Raymond Felton and Tyson Chandler.

Portland will be missing Mo Williams through suspension, but this is a team on a roll and I would be surprised if they don't win this one handily.


November 26th
LA Lakers @ Washington Wizards Pick: The LA Lakers have a mini-road trip to the East coast through Thanksgiving, which opens up with this game in Washington. The Wizards have been playing well, but are struggling Defensively and that is an area where the Lakers can at least make this competitive so I will take the points.


November 27th
Chicago Bulls @ Detroit Pistons Pick: The loss of Derrick Rose is huge for this Chicago team that also has lost the depth that made them competitive last season. They won't tank the season, but they may need the Thanksgiving break between games to make the adjustments to the Offense without their star Point Guard.

With Detroit finally winning back to back games, the Pistons may have the confidence to dominate the boards and win this game while covering the spread.

New York Knicks @ LA Clippers Pick: Injuries are hurting New York and their Offense has struggled for consistency which doesn't bode well for them against a team like the Clippers that can score a lot of points. Usually I would steer clear of such a big spread, but New York are struggling badly from beyond the three point range and I think the Clippers crush them in a track meet.

MY PICKS: 12/11 Dallas Mavericks - 5.5 Points @ 1.92 Bet Victor (1 Unit)
13/11 Boston Celtics - 5.5 Points @ 1.95 Ladbrokes (1 Unit)
13/11 Atlanta Hawks - 4 Points @ 1.95 Pinnacle (1 Unit)
14/11 Golden State Warriors-Oklahoma City Thunder Over 208 Points @ 1.95 Pinnacle (1 Unit)
15/11 Minnesota Timberwolves - 2 Points @ 1.92 Bet Fred (1 Unit)
15/11 San Antonio Spurs - 10 Points @ 1.92 Paddy Power (1 Unit)
19/11 Miami Heat - 9.5 Points @ 2.05 Paddy Power (1 Unit)
19/11 Minnesota Timberwolves - 4 Points @ 1.95 Pinnacle (1 Unit)
20/11 Indiana Pacers - 6.5 Points @ 2.00 Pinnacle (1 Unit)
20/11 Miami Heat - 7.5 Points @ 2.00 Pinnacle (1 Unit)
22/11 New Orleans Pelicans - 6.5 Points @ 1.95 Pinnacle (1 Unit)
25/11 Utah Jazz + 4.5 Points @ 2.00 Pinnacle (1 Unit)
25/11 Portland Trail Blazers - 7 Points @ 1.95 Pinnacle (1 Unit)
26/11 LA Lakers + 5 Points @ 2.05 Pinnacle (1 Unit)
27/11 Detroit Pistons - 3 Points @ 1.95 Pinnacle (1 Unit)
27/11 LA Clippers - 9.5 Points @ 1.95 Pinnacle (1 Unit)

November 2013 Update: 8-7-1, + 0.82 Units
October 2013 Final: 0-4, - 4 Units

Final Season 2013: 105-93-3, + 10.49 Units
Final Season 2012: 79-53-1, + 27.48 Units