Christmas Day Free NBA Basketball Picks

The NBA really takes center stage for the first time on Christmas every year. That’s because there is no football. Heck, there is no other sport at all being played. There was a very real effort by the NBA and TV networks to capture what the NFL had with Thanksgiving Day. It may not quite be the same ratings bonanza but viewership definitely increases and so does the NBA betting action.

There is a slate of five NBA games that span all day long. The marquee game, arguably, is the rematch of the season opening Lakers vs Clippers. The first go-around was very exciting and both teams played like they were in mid-season form. We have taken a quick peak at the games and selected a free betting pick.

Game 1
Toronto vs Boston (-3)
12:00 Noon EST

Boston is coming to town and they aren’t looking to deliver presents. They are looking to deal a blow to the Raptors. Boston is on a three game win-streak. Toronto just had their win streak ended in their last game, a five point loss to Indiana.

70% of the public riding Boston in this one so I’m going to take the Raptors at home getting the points. Simple, short and sweet.

Game 2
Philadelphia vs Milwaukee (-2.5)
2:30 pm EST

The Bucks are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 games. Philly is 2-4 in their last 6 ATS. Philadelphia is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games when playing at home against Milwaukee. The Bucks can handle themselves

The Bucks have (in our opinion) the best player in the league in Antetokounmpo, who scores 31 PPG and Christmas would be a perfect day to showcase his skills to the nation. We are taking the Bucks on the road.

Game 3
Golden State vs Houston (-11)
5:00 pm EST

This is not Golden State of yesteryear. They have basically been gutted by injury and free-agency. They have, however, been able to put together an almost even 6-7-1 ATS record at home.

This will be a chance for Harden and company to show that they have the firepower. And they will defeat the Warriors. But the numbers don’t justify betting Houston -11. The numbers suggest that Golden Sate should cover. This line should be more like Houston -8.5 points. Take Golden Sate at home getting the points.

Game 4
L.A. Lakers (-1.5) vs L.A. Clippers
8:00 pm EST

The marquee game of the day. Is it time for Lebron and AD to get revenge for the opening day loss? Lets see. The Lakers are on a three game losing streak right now. The Clippers have lost three of their last five. This is a really tough one. In actuality the game should be a pick em’ but the Lebron Christmas TV factor has them as slight favorites.

I have to admit I’m a sucker for the Lebron on Christmas factor too and I think the Lakers have had plenty of time to gel and work out the kinks. They want this win against the Clippers. And they will get it. Take the Lake Show.

Game 5
Denver (-10) vs New Orleans
10:30 pm EST

Two teams with opposite type seasons. Denver is coming up and their record shows it. They are 23-9 overall and just beat the Lakers. The Pelicans are 8-23 and are 2-14 SU in their last 16 games. Woeful.

New Orleans is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games on the road. But they are 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Denver, granted these are different teams than when they trends were made. The line is a just a tad bit high. It should probably be more like -8 or -8.5. I’m not loving this, but I have to take New Orleans in this one.