NBA on ESPN Friday Free Bet: Brooklyn Nets @ New Orleans Pelicans (+4.5 | O/U: 231)

The Brooklyn Nets visit the New Orleans Pelicans in a highly anticipated interconference matchup on Friday night. Let’s dive into the matchup:

The Nets had won twelve straight prior to losing in Chicago on Wednesday night, and look to regain their rhythm versus a depleted New Orleans team (click here for today’s complete injury report). Since the start of their win streak, the Nets grade out as the best team in the NBA per Net Rating, and have ascended to having the third best odds at winning the title.

The Pelicans have had a stellar start to the season as well. New Orleans has been unfortunate in having to withstand injuries to the likes of Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson, yet they find themselves just one game back from the top spot in the Western Conference. Much of their success can be attributed to their deep bench, as the majority of their relief players grade out as positive players, per 538’s RAPTOR ratings.

It is because of such depth that we elect to side with New Orleans tonight. The Nets may have the best player on the court tonight in Kevin Durant, but the Pelicans will have the advantage elsewhere. Brooklyn’s second unit pales in comparison to New Orleans’, and the absence of Zion Williamson is not crucial enough to deter us from backing them on their home court. 

Bet: Pelicans +4.5 (-110)

Brooklyn has earned the distinction of being the favorite, but not to such a degree. Their past month has been exceptional, but they haven’t truly been tested, and they have been less efficient on the road. Give us the upstart Pelicans, and give us the points. 

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