Damian Lillard may return in this one, and I like his team's chances for pulling the upset. In his absence, Allen Grabbe has really stepped up, averaging 18.7 points per game. If he has to go again, Portland still has a shot, but if Lillard can go, the combination will be powerful. The Blazers are averaging 101.3 per game on the season and 104.5 in division games. Their defense has improved since Lillard went out, giving up just 98.8 per game over their lsat five games. Utah is managing just 94.8 per game in their last five and 91.7 per game in division games. After a tough game where they were instilled as an underdog this season, Utah is just 4-10 straight-up in their next game. Under Terry Stots, the Blazers are 93-61 following a win. Take Portland on the moneyline.
This pick was released to clients on December 31, 2023 at 12:36PM ET.
NBA
Portland at Utah
December 31, 2015
9:05 PM Eastern
1 unit on Portland +150 (moneyline) (risk 1 to return 2.5)
Result:
LOSS
LOSS
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