NBA betting: Four bets that stand out for Monday's games - ESPN

The 2025 NBA playoffs continue Monday with two games. First, the Detroit Pistons look to even up the series against the New York Knicks (-6.5, 221.5). Then, the Denver Nuggets aim to preserve homecourt against the LA Clippers (-1.5, 218.5).

Here are some of the bets that stand out for Monday's games.

Odds are as of publication time. For the most up-to-date odds, visit ESPN BET

Cade Cunningham over 36.5 points and assists (-115). Cunningham didn't shoot well in Game 1 — just 38% from the field on 21 attempts — but he still looked comfortable out there. The Knicks weren't doubling him, and their defensive approach was pretty much what we saw during the regular season. This is still a matchup Cunningham can take advantage of, especially working out of the pick-and-roll. I expect Cunningham to be more assertive and shoot the ball better. He's gone over this line in 59% of the games this season when he's played 36 minutes or more.

Nikola Jokic over 27.5 points (-115). Jokic scored 29 in Game 1 on 12-of-24 shooting, but he had to work for every bucket. The Clippers threw constant double teams at him, and it came at a cost. Early on, when Ivica Zubac guarded Jokic one-on-one, the defense held up and L.A. led. But once the double teams came, Denver's role players got into a rhythm. Jokic dished out 12 assists. The one guy who didn't show up? Michael Porter Jr., who faded into the background and was even called out by Jokic postgame. That should spark a bounce-back from MPJ, which could make the Clippers think twice about sending doubles. Jokic's hit this line in 69% of games where he's played 36+ minutes.

Clippers Money Line (-115). The Clippers haven't lost back-to-back games since early March and have looked like the league's