2023 NBA bets, lines and stats for Pacers-Grizzlies, Wizards-Blazers and more - ESPN

The NBA is in action again Thursday night with an eight-game slate for bettors to choose from. The game I'm looking forward to the most has the Indiana Pacers traveling to Memphis to take on the Grizzlies. Ja Morant delivered a superb performance in his first game following his suspension, posting 34 points, six rebounds and eight assists Tuesday against the Pelicans. Against a Pacers team that ranks 30th in points allowed per 100 possessions, he is also well positioned to surpass 30.5 points on Thursday night. A number of Grizzlies `backcourt players are injured, including Marcus Smart. Another Memphis player has been negatively impacted by Morant's return, which leads me to my first recommendation.

Jaren Jackson Jr. under 30.5 points, rebounds and assists: Jackson has gone under this line in three consecutive games, and his usage rate is negatively affected by Morant's return. On Tuesday night, Morant had a 39.5% usage rate against the Pelicans, while Jackson was at 28.8%. While the Pacers rank 30th in points allowed per 100 possessions, they do a decent job limiting rebounds and assists. Considering Jackson Jr.'s current situation, this line seems high.

Cade Cunningham over 31.5 points and assists: Cunningham has had 31 or more points+assists in two consecutive games. Although the Pistons rank 30th in points scored per 100 possessions, Cunningham leads the team with 22.2 points per game. He has a usage rate of 31.1% and should be very productive against a Jazz team that ranks 25th in points allowed per 100 possessions. Utah also gives up the most assists per game to point guards.

Deandre Ayton over 14.5 points: Ayton scored 16 points Tuesday against the Suns, his former team. Against a Wizards team that ranks 29th in