The NBA regular season continues on Wednesday, February 26th with a big seven-game slate that’s headlined by the Mavericks at Lakers, which of course pits Luka Doncic up against his old club for the first time. We bring you our preview and best bet for that clash plus more below!
Also, make sure to head over to our NBA Tips regularly, as we’ll be providing free tips for all the major slates for each and every week of the 2024-25 season!
NBA Betting Tips: Wednesday, February 26th 2025
Cleveland Cavaliers at Orlando Magic (11:30am AEDT)
The Cleveland Cavaliers (47-10) take on the Orlando Magic (29-30) in a high-quality Eastern Conference clash. The Cavaliers, with the best record in the league, are on a seven-game winning streak and have won 11 of their last 12. Their offence has been dominant, averaging 122.9 points per game, while their defence concedes 111.8 points per game. They will look to continue their strong form as they push towards securing the top seed.
The Magic, currently seventh in the East, have endured a tough season with injuries but are finding form at the right time. Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, having missed significant time, are now back and contributing to the team’s recent success, including three wins in their last four games. Orlando’s defence remains one of the best in the league, ranking first by allowing just 105.2 points per game. Their home-court advantage has also been key, having won their last three home games against the Cavaliers.
Cleveland are favoured by 8.5 points, but the Magic’s improved performances and strong defensive presence suggest they can keep this one competitive. While the Cavaliers are in fantastic form, Orlando have the tools to stay within the spread and make this a close contest.
Magic +8.5
$1.85 (1.5 Units)
Phoenix Suns at Memphis Grizzlies (12:00pm AEDT)
The Memphis Grizzlies (37-20) host the Phoenix Suns (27-30) in a Western Conference matchup, with Memphis favoured by 7.5 points. The Grizzlies have been solid at home, holding a 21-6 record, and will be looking to continue their dominance. While their defence has struggled at times, allowing 116 points per game, their offence has been strong enough to keep them near the top of the standings.
Phoenix have had an inconsistent season and sit 11th in the West. They average 113.2 points per game but concede 115.3, making it difficult to string together wins. While they have the scoring ability to challenge teams, their defensive issues have often cost them against stronger opposition. Facing a Memphis side that thrives at home, the Suns will need a big performance to stay competitive.
Memphis have already beaten Phoenix this season and have the advantage on both ends of the floor. Their ability to control the tempo and exploit the Suns' defensive lapses should give them the edge. With their strong home form and offensive firepower, the Grizzlies look well-positioned to cover the spread and secure another convincing victory.
Grizzlies -7.5
$1.90 (2 Units)
Dallas Mavericks at Los Angeles Lakers (2:00pm AEDT)
In a highly anticipated matchup, the Los Angeles Lakers host the Dallas Mavericks at Crypto.com Arena. This game marks Luka Doncic’s first meeting with his former team since his shocking trade to the Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis. The blockbuster move reshaped both franchises, with the Lakers adding one of the league’s most gifted playmakers while the Mavericks focused on improving their defence.
Doncic had a rough start with the Lakers, struggling in his first couple of games as he adjusted to his new surroundings. However, he looked back to his best in their recent win over the Nuggets, putting on a dominant display and showing signs of strong chemistry with his new teammates. His ability to control the tempo and create scoring opportunities makes the Lakers a dangerous team, especially against a depleted Dallas squad.
The Mavericks, meanwhile, are dealing with a host of injuries that make this a tough task on the road. Anthony Davis, who was acquired in the trade, remains sidelined with an adductor strain, while Daniel Gafford is out with an MCL sprain. P.J. Washington and Dwight Powell are also questionable, further depleting Dallas’ depth. With so many key players missing, it’s difficult to see them keeping up with a Lakers team that has been strong at home.
With Doncic back in form and the Mavericks struggling with injuries, the Lakers should have little trouble securing a comfortable win. Expect an emotional night as Doncic faces his former team for the first time, but the Lakers’ superior firepower and home-court advantage make them clear favourites to come out on top.
Lakers -9
$1.90 (2.5 Units)
