Mavericks (+9) @ KINGS (229.5)
Pick: Under 229.5
We’ve detailed the uphill battle Sacramento had in the Western Conference to make the postseason. Unfortunately for the Kings, they’re going to fall short of the playoffs and while there’s a lot to be excited about in California’s capital city, this won’t be the year DeAaron Fox and company play beyond 82 regular season games. Teams in these spots can present interesting gambling opportunities though. Against most other teams, if the Kings were a nine-point favorite we’d fade them and take the points. But Dallas is trying to hold on to its top five protected draft pick and is on the second leg of a back-to-back. We’re not interested in buying Mavericks stock. The general idea here is that neither team might not care much about this game which probably lends itself to less scoring making the under the strongest play.