The Denver Nuggets were able to cover the spread and avoid the hook despite only scoring 8 points in the first quarter and a late collapse in the fourth quarter. Oklahoma City was able to even the series 2 - 2 with great defense and grit. A fascinating series continues between the leading MVP candidates.

Nikola Jokic was not able to get off the hook, earning 13 rebounds and most of which came in the first half. It was a sloppy game as anticipated, as the 39-hour turnaround was a bit too much for both teams.

The Indiana Pacers, with plenty of rest, destroyed the Cleveland Cavaliers. The game was over at halftime, and Donovan Mitchell did not return due to an injury in the halftime warm-ups. Despite that, Tyrese Haliburton was nowhere near his point line. In fact, he scored just 11 points as six other Indiana players scored more than him. This series is about to be over.

 

 

 

NBA Picks, Predictions & Best Bets Today, 5/12 

There are two games taking place today, both of which are game four,s and both have great importance. One is in the Western Conference and one in the Eastern Conference, and the first NBA best bet today comes from the Mecca of the NBA.

Celtics vs Knicks Prediction: Boston -6.5  (-110 on Bet365) *BET OF THE NIGHT 

The New York Knicks host the Boston Celtics at Madison Square Garden, and the home team is still seeking its first win in this series. The Celtics once again had a 20-point lead in the second half. This time, 99 - 79 in the fourth quarter, and the Celtics put the game away, just as predicted two days ago.

Today’s game promises to be another thriller at Madison Square Garden. Although the Knicks control the series with a 2 - 1 lead, the Celtics are favored to win this match. Fantasy Alarm backs that notion too, expecting the series to be tied when it returns to TD Garden.

The Knicks had to come from behind in both of their wins and had to do it late in the game. Boston cruised to their victory, so much so that their spread moved up a full point. When the Celtics are making their threes, it’s almost impossible for any team to win against them. Even when they are not making their threes, it takes a great performance to beat them.

The Celtics are defending champions for a reason, and as tempting as it is to tease up the spread, take the -6.5 line. There could be another late surge from New York that could take a double-digit lead to single digits. However, Boston should win by double digits once again.

Put a unit on this wager at Bet365, and for those new to sports betting apps, make sure to take advantage of the promotional offer at the end of this article.

 

 

 

Celtics vs Knicks Prediction: Jayson Tatum Over 10.5 Rebounds  (-102 on FanDuel)

Part of the reason the Celtics won was the play of their leader, Jayson Tatum. He made 5 threes, recorded 9 rebounds, passed out 7 assists, had 2 steals, and ended with 22 points in 40 minutes of court time.

Believe it or not, his 9 rebounds were the lowest he has recorded in the 2025 Conference Semifinals. He earned 14 in game two and 16 in game one. He has a combined 39 rebounds through three games, or a series average of 13 per game. Tatum’s season average is 8.7 per game, but with Kristaps Porzingis banged up and Al Horford climbing in age, Tatum has stepped up where his team needs him most. As would any true, capable leader.

Tatum is the captain of the team and knows that a loss and game four would put unneeded pressure on his coaches and fellow teammates. As the captain and the most versatile player on the team, Tatum will be required to do it all again. The Knicks do not want to lose control of the series and will be playing with desperation. 

Look for Tatum to attack the defensive glass against Karl-Anthony Towns, Mitchell Robinson, and OG Anunoby. He should also earn a few offensive rebounds from missed threes, which have a habit of bouncing hard and far away from the rim.

Put a unit on this NBA best bet at FanDuel, and for those not utilizing the sports betting application, take advantage of Fantasy Alarm’s promotional offer for new customers.

 

 

 

Best NBA Prop Bets & Other Picks Today, 5/12

The late game is in San Francisco in a match of a rising young team and a dynasty that could be experiencing its last opportunity.

Timberwolves vs Warriors Prediction: Minnesota -5.5 (-105 on BETMGM) 

The Golden State Warriors host the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Chase Center in a pivotal game four. Minnesota took control of the series with back-to-back victories. Today, they can essentially put the series out of reach with another win. 

This series really took a turn when Stephen Curry was declared out for at least three games. The hope is he is healthy enough to return for game six, but the reality is this series could be over before game six has an opportunity to arrive. Minnesota has been one of the best teams since April, and although they showed some difficulty putting away game three, they could put game four away early.

Minnesota displayed in game two that they have an offense capable of scoring with any team. Although they are known for their defense, it’s their offense that should win this match. The starters are playing well, and Naz Reid has been one of the best bench players of the 2025 playoffs.

If the starting unit and the Timberwolves' bench score as they are capable of, this game will be out of reach. They won game three by five points, but won game two by 24 points. Minnesota is too fast, too strong, and too driven to be stopped by an older and smaller team. Barring a career night from Jimmy Butler and Buddy Hield combined, this spread should easily be covered.

Put a unit on the Timberwolves to cover the spread on the road, and win by more points than they did in game three. For those new to BETMGM, make sure to take advantage of the promotional offer from Fantasy Alarm for up to $1,500 in best bets.

 

 

 

Get $150 in Bonus Bets Today At Bet365 Sportsbook When You Sign Up

Ready to jump into the action? New users can score a fantastic deal with Bet365 Sportsbook without even needing a Bet365 promo code. Sign up today, place a $5 wager, and instantly receive $150 in bonus bets—win or lose! It’s one of the best offers out there, giving you extra firepower to follow our NBA picks today.

Whether you’re fading or following our NBA best bets today, this promo reduces the risk and boosts your potential payout. Head to Bet365 now to claim your $150 in bonus bets and get in on the NBA excitement! With these NBA predictions and options in hand, you’re set for a profitable night.

Bet Smart, Be Lucky - Iggy

 

*All NBA odds accurate at time of writing and NBA best bets today to be placed at 1 unit unless specified otherwise