Picks for 5/21/24
NBA
8:00 PM EST
Rotation # 549
Pacers +9.5 over Celtics (win)
The Celtics are the best team in the Eastern Conference, but like the Knicks, they have a weak bench. Indiana has the best bench in the NBA, and if they play with pace and get the Celtics into foul trouble, they can beat up the Boston reserves. Indiana is a unique team that plays outstanding offense and poor defense. It’s hard to predict how they will play on any given night. We will take our chances with the large underdog in Game 1. Boston has played a lighter playoff schedule and has taken some quarters off as if they are bored with playing teams they know they can beat. Look for Indiana to get more points in the paint and knock down a decent number of three-pointers. Boston has lost their size advantage with Porzingis on the sidelines. Indiana must do damage before he comes back. Game one should be a feeling-out process, so I expect the Pacers to stay inside the number. Take the Pacers.
MLB
6:40 PM EST
Rotation # 903
Giants -135 over Pirates (loss)
Webb/Perez
The Pirates have the worst slugging percentage in MLB against right-handed pitching, and it won’t get easier against Giants starter Logan Webb. Pirates starter Martin Perez has beat up in his last few starts, so I expect San Francisco to get on the board early and often. Take the Giants.