Portland Through Washington

There are some easy under picks in this last section of teams. The San Antonio Spurs didn’t get better in the offseason while much of the rest of their conference did. They won 32 games a season ago and have to win 32 again to be a successful over selection. I see the Kings as being in a similar situation.

Portland Trail Blazers (Under 40.5)

I dunno if it’s because I don’t see enough of their games or because I just don’t like the roster. To paraphrase a Canadian National Treasure, they don’t impress me much. This is another team that I just don’t see as being on a trajectory to keep up with a Western Conference. They’re up against teams like the Lakers who are already in a dominant position AND teams like the Mavericks, Suns, and Pelicans who are continuing to improve. Just by token of the fact that winning games against improving teams take more energy, I’m betting the Blazers don’t quite make the 40 win mark this season.

Toronto Raptors (Over 41.5)

Yes, I’m a Toronto Raptors homer. You don’t have to look far to find that out. I’m anything but shy about it. But that’s not the reason you should trust my over pick here. History has the evidence. How many years in a row have you been surprised that the Raptors had a better regular-season record than you thought they would? Were you surprised with their 59-win season in 2017-18? How about 58 wins and a Championship in 2018-19?

Hell, they even surprised me last season. I predicted they would finish between 3rd and 5th in the Eastern Conference. Instead, they finished 2nd with 53 wins. Wouldn’t you look smart to all your friends if you’re on the side of the Raptors conversation that is in the know this year? Trust me; take the over.

Well, those are my picks. Agree or disagree, I want to hear from you @auxiliarythings on Twitter. Check out my general NBA takes on Belly Up Sports and my podcast Hardcourt Hunnies.

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