Posted at 10:45 AM EST. Odds subject to change.

Pinnacle +102 BET365 +100 Sportsinteraction -105 888Sport -105

L.A. Clippers (+102) over Dallas

8:40 PM EST. This is the spot to bet on the Clippers. They're facing a ton of vitriol from the media right now, really from every direction since Harden came over, but when this team puts it all together we know they can be really impressive. We're tremendously annoyed by James Harden, too, but that's true even if he's a big part of the equation. 

The Clippers' depth and two-way prowess is substantial. From Kawhi Leonard to Paul George to their bigs and even to Russell Westbrook, who seems to be more settled into his new ancillary role, LAC can be a matchup nightmare for any team that has its guard down. We're not sure if that will be Dallas' disposition tonight, but in this case it may not matter.

The overrated Mavericks are 6-2 thanks to an easy opening schedule, but this is not a team we trust to consistently churn out wins in tough matchups. Grant Williams has been a nice addition, but no one else plays consistent defense. Eventually Kyrie Irving's return to the lineup will inevitably create an awkward and clumsy offense, especially when he takes away opportunities from Luka Doncic, and the Clippers have the versatility and length to force the Dallas offense into uncomfortable shots. Tim Hardaway Jr., Grant Williams, and Luka Doncic have been shooting with premiere efficiency to start the season, but we saw that inevitably regress in their last contest (a loss) vs. the Raptors. Kyrie continues to take too many shots (18 per game), and his shooting percentage has been consistently low (43% through six games). 

The recent media firestorm launched on the Clippers will motivate an all-out, "prove it" performance against a team predicated on a good but beatable offense. Dallas has a long trip ahead, starting in two days, which could affect their energy-commitment to this game. Lord knows that's the modality of the modern NBA. The Clippers are hungry for a W and they'll return for a long homestand after tonight's matchup. Give us  a way-more-talented Clippers' squad to win straight up. 

Farley

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