February 27th, 2025: Best NBA Plays of the Day

Welcome back to the best plays of the day, your daily guide to the smartest plays in sports betting. To recap our last segment, we went 2-1 on the day. The Pistons defeated the Celtics 117-97 with Jaylen Brown out, while Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday played. This extends the Pistons' win streak to eight games, and it covered our +6.5 spread comfortably. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander crossed the 25-point mark with 30 seconds to go at the free throw line in a comeback win vs the Nets, ending the game with 27. The fatal blow came from Jordan Clarkson, who shot an abysmal one of 14 from the field and didn’t make a single three-pointer. On a five-game slate, we look to bounce back today as we continue giving you our best plays of the day.

Luka Doncic Made Threes Under 3.5: -136 on FanDuel Sportsbooks

Considering Luka Doncic’s recent performance and shooting statistics, Luka making under 3.5 three-pointers in today's game appears to be a prudent best play. Since joining the Los Angeles Lakers, Doncic has averaged two made three-pointers per game, with a shooting percentage of 25% from beyond the arc. In his most recent game against the Dallas Mavericks, he recorded 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 assists, but his scoring was notably below his season average of 26.4. This suggests a potential adjustment period with his new team, possibly affecting his shooting rhythm. Tonight he will be up against the Timberwolves who possess Anthony Edwards and Jaden McDaniels, who have the length, speed, and quickness to bother Doncic on most of his attempts. Luka is a microwave player but it’s still an adjusting period for him.

Anthony Edwards to Make 3+ Threes: -265 on FanDuel Sportsbooks

Anthony Edwards' proficiency from beyond the arc makes this best play appealing in today's matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers. This season, Edwards is averaging 4.1 made three-pointers per game on 10.2 attempts, resulting in a 40.6% success rate. Notably, he has made 236 three-pointers over 57 games, underscoring his consistency and volume from long range. His volume shooting at that percentage of makes shows that Edwards has the capability to shoot with some of the best shooters in the league. Coming off a one-for-six outing from beyond the arc on February 24th against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Edwards had an off night while nursing right calf soreness. With three nights of rest, expect Edwards to regain elevation in his jumper and cash this best play. 

Trey Murphy III to Score 20+ Points: -192 on FanDuel Sportsbooks

Trey Murphy III has been on an impressive scoring streak recently, making him a strong candidate to surpass 20 points in today's matchup against the Phoenix Suns. Over his last 10 games, Murphy has averaged 24.5 points per game, showcasing his offensive consistency. Notably, he delivered standout performances with 40 points against the Boston Celtics on January 31st, and 41 points against the Denver Nuggets on February 3rd, 2025. In his most recent outing on February 25th, Murphy led the New Orleans Pelicans with 24 points in a comeback victory over the San Antonio Spurs. The Phoenix Suns' defense has shown vulnerabilities as they rank 18th in the NBA in defensive rating at 117.2. With the line set at 236.5, Vegas is predicting a high-scoring affair. Murphy if he remains at his steady regular pace should be able to obtain 20 points and cash this best play without much of a sweat. 

Stephen Curry to Score 20+ Points: -330 on FanDuel Sportsbook

Jimmy Butler has significantly enhanced the team's offensive dynamics, particularly benefiting Stephen Curry. Butler's versatile playmaking and scoring abilities alleviate defensive pressure on Curry, creating more open opportunities for him. In their recent games, this synergy has been evident. For instance, during a victory over the Milwaukee Bucks, Curry scored 38 points on 12-of-24 shooting. Butler's presence on the court has eased Curry's offensive workload, allowing for a more fluid and efficient scoring dynamic. This gives this best play life, Curry’s line is set at 24.5 so 20+ should be a safe space for a best play. The Orlando Magic, while boasting a strong defense, have shown some vulnerability against point guards. They allow an average of 20.17 points per game to players at this position. This statistic suggests that elite point guards like Curry can find scoring opportunities against the Magic's defense.