NBA on TNT Premium Free Bet Philadelphia 76ers @ Dallas Mavericks (-3 | O/U: 228.5)

The 76ers and the Mavericks meet Thursday night for an interconference bout between title contenders, and although Dallas will have the advantage of playing at home, we elect to lean Philly in this contest.

Dallas has struggled since their acquisition of G Kyrie Irving, as the marriage between him and fellow G Luka Doncic has not been so seamless. The Mavericks are a staggering 1-4 when the two players have shared the court, dropping three of these games on their home court, and to marginal opponents (Wolves, Lakers, Pacers). The issue for Dallas continues to be their defense, as the team ranks 24th in Net Defensive Rating since the trade for Irving, and 26th in Pts/Poss over their last six games. Unfortunately for Dallas fans, life doesn’t get any easier with the 76ers in town.

The Sixers rank eight in Offensive Pts/Poss this season, and an even better second in the NBA when playing on the road. Look no further than last night’s win in Miami for evidence of their offensive prowess, as the Sixers crushed the Heat despite C Joel Embiid resting a lingering foot injury. Embiid is currently listed as probable for tonight’s game, but that designation can/should be interpreted as a signal that he intends to play-- and he should crush this matchup.

The Mavericks have a pair of adequate defensive big-men in Dwight Powell and Maxi Kleber, but neither player prototypes as one capable of stalling Embiid on the interior. The matchup is a favorable one for the rest of the Sixers’ five as well-- namely, guards James Harden and Tyrese Maxey. These two players have been prolific this season, and should have an advantage regardless of whoever Dallas has defending them. 

Bet: 76ers +3 (-110)

The pairing of Kyrie Irving with Luka Doncic has been lackluster thus far, and for all of the fireworks the duo may provide offensively, the Dallas defense will continue to hold them back. It’s an especially difficult opponent for the team, and we’re not so sure they're deserving of being favored to such a degree. Back Philly to keep it rolling on the road. 

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