76ers vs. Nets prediction, odds and spread for Game 3
The first-round NBA playoff series between the Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn Nets shifts to Barclays Center for Thursday's Game 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Philadelphia has dominated the first two games of this matchup as it won both contests by double digits.
Can Brooklyn get back in this series or will the Sixers push the Nets to the brink? Here are my picks and predictions for Game 3 with odds powered by Tipico Sportsbook.
Sixers vs. Nets spread: Sixers -4.5 (-108)
After being favored by at least 8.5 points in both Games 1 and 2, the Sixers are currently a -4.5 point favorite on Thursday night.
They are 8-3 ATS in their previous 11 matchups on the road. In the regular season, Philly was the best overall team against the spread (48-34) and was fifth ATS on the road (23-18).
The Nets have failed to cover in five straight first-round playoff matchups and have only covered the spread in three of their past 10 home games.
I believe the Nets will be more competitive than they were in the first two games, but I'm betting on the Sixers to cover this number and win by at least five points in this one.
Sixers vs. Nets total: Over 209.5 points (-108)
Game 2 saw a low total of just 180 points, but wager on the over and here's why.
Philadelphia had gone over this number in four of its last five games dating to the regular season. Meanwhile, the Nets are 6-1 to the over in their prior seven games after a straight-up loss.
The Sixers and Nets combined for 239 points in the final tune up before the playoffs on April 9.
Wager on both teams to have more success on offense and combine for at least 210 points Thursday night.
Sixers vs. Nets moneyline: Sixers (-190)
Do I believe the Nets put up their best fight in Game 3? Absolutely. However, I don't expect Sixers guard James Harden to shoot 3-for-13 again as Philly takes complete control and goes for the sweep on Saturday afternoon.
Other wagers I'd place on Tipico Sportsbook are for the Sixers to score more than 108.5 points (+122), to lead at halftime and the end of regulation (-110) and to win between 6-10 points at +380.
My Best Bets
Place a bet on the Sixers moneyline (-190), to cover the -4.5 spread (-108) and the over 209.5 total points scored at -108 on Tipico Sportsbook.
