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Jamal Murray Over 1.5 Steals (+125, Bet365)
Jamal Murray has been on a defensive tear lately, consistently racking up steals. Over his last four games, he has surpassed the 1.5 steal mark in three of them, including a standout performance against the Portland Trail Blazers, where he snagged two steals in the first half alone during a blowout victory. Tonight, he gets another shot at the same turnover-prone Blazers squad.
Portland has struggled with ball security all season, ranking third worst in the league with 16 turnovers per game. They also allow 9.5 steals per game, which ranks among the worst in the NBA. More importantly, they give up the most steals to opposing point guards, allowing an average of 2.68 steals per game to the position.
This sets up an ideal scenario for Murray. With Portland’s continued issues taking care of the ball, he should have ample opportunities to rack up steals and clear this 1.5 line once again.
Christian Braun Over 5.5 Rebounds (+100, Bet365)
With Russell Westbrook sidelined, Christian Braun has taken on a larger role on the glass. Since Westbrook’s absence, Braun is averaging 7.8 rebounds per game, with 14 rebound chances per game. When he has received at least 12 rebound chances, he has hit the over on 5.5 rebounds in 16 of 17 games.
Tonight, his rebounding outlook could improve even further. Michael Porter Jr. is questionable, and with the All-Star break approaching, Denver could opt to give him additional rest. If Porter Jr. sits, Braun will see increased minutes and more rebounding opportunities.
The matchup also works in Braun’s favor. The Trail Blazers rank among the bottom third of the league in rebounding defense, allowing the 11th most rebounds to shooting guards (6.4 per game) and the 3rd most to small forwards (8.24 per game). Since Braun plays both positions and would see extended small forward minutes if Porter Jr. is out, he’s in a prime position to clear this 5.5 rebound line once again.
In the six games since Westbrook’s absence, Braun has consistently hit this mark, and tonight looks like another strong opportunity for him to do so.
Written by Denver Sports Betting’s host
@_betsindenver
