Picks for 5/16/24
NBA
8:30 PM EST
Rotation # 525
Nuggets +2 over Timberwolves (loss)
Denver looked defeated after their game one and two loss to the Nuggets on their home court. It’s been an incredible turnaround for Denver, as they have Minnesota on the ropes and can clinch the series tonight. Minnesota might be without Mike Conley tonight, or at best, they get a weak version of him with his ACL not being 100 percent. Denver needs to limit Anthony Edwards to a night under 40 points and is confident the role players can’t beat them if they double-team Edwards. Momentum plays a huge role in how a playoff series goes. Denver has momentum and is unfazed by big road games deep in the season. Look for Nikola Jokic to lead his team to the Western Conference Finals. Take the Nuggets.
MLB
6:40 PM EST
Rotation # 951
Mets +120 over Phillies (win)
Quintana/Walker
The Phillies are the hottest teams in baseball and have won three straight against the Mets. The Mets dropped two at home and are in danger of dropping two in a row at Philly, trying to avoid the rare four-game home/away sweep. The Philly’s kryptonite is they strike out too much against left-handed starters. Jose Quintana doesn’t have the strike-out ability he once did, but he should get a few punchouts. Look for New York to play harder to avoid the embarrassing sweep to their divisional rivals. Take the Mets.