The Toronto Raptors continue to boast the best record in the NBA, but it’s fair to wonder if a host of injuries will allow other teams to close the gap. Toronto has been dealing with the absence of many key players in recent weeks but will aim to keep on having success this week in a matchup against the Miami Heat.
Toronto boasts the superior record but the Heat do get this game at home. Injuries could play a part in where the oddsmakers put the spread, so check to see who all is available. Miami is right on the edge of a playoff spot, and while it is still early this team figures to be jockeying for a spot all year long.
The Heat would love to steal this victory in NBA gambling.
This NBA basketball game between the Toronto Raptors and Miami Heat will be held at American Airlines Arena in Miami, Florida at 7:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday, December 26th, 2018. The game will be nationally televised on NBA TV.
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Odds Analysis
The Raptors have a record of 25-10 on the season. They have been really solid on the road this year with a 12-6 mark. Toronto has the look of a true title contender because of their ability to win away from home and will look to pick up another quality road victory in this one.
The Heat is 16-16 on the season and playing very well of late. Miami is close to the Pistons, Hornets, Magic Nets and Wizards in the standings and not all of them are going to make the postseason. The Heat has a tough matchup in this one but if it can manage to pull the upset it would be a big help. Miami has struggled at home with a 7-9 record there and must pick it up moving forward in NBA wagering.
Injury Report
Nearly every key cog on the Raptors has been dealing with some sort of injury in the past few weeks, from stars Kawhi Leonard and Kyle Lowry on down the line. Luckily the injuries haven’t been too serious and the Raptors are expected to have their star duo available.
However, forward Serge Ibaka is dealing with a knee injury that has kept him out the past three games. Miami is banged up as well. Guard Goran Dragic and swingman Dion Waiters have both missed significant time this year. Dragic won’t play in this one after he recently had surgery on his knee, while Waiters is also expected to sit out.
Player To Watch
Hassan Whiteside -- The Heat is going to be outflanked in this one but if it can play well on the defensive side of the court it could stick around. Whiteside is a huge part of that as he is the main player patrolling the paint.
Whiteside is averaging 13.5 rebounds and 2.8 blocks per game in addition to 13.2 points. He has turned into a star after humble beginnings and needs to have a good showing in order for his team to stay close.
Whiteside is an efficient player on offense and if he can score in double digits that will be a boost, but his biggest value comes from defending the paint on the other side of the court.
Free NBA ATS Picks
The Raptors are the better team and they should win. Toronto needs to keep it rolling because teams like the Bucks, 76ers, Celtics and Pacers are on their heels. The Heat has a decent team and has put together a nice winning streak heading into this matchup but Toronto is elite and should emerge victorious even on the road.
Keep an eye out for the spread to see if it makes sense to pick Miami to cover in NBA wagering.
NBA ATS Pick: Toronto Raptors 117, Miami Heat 111
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