NBA Best Bets Today: 3 of the best NBA Cup Picks for Friday, November 22

It's Friday, and we have a full slate of NBA Cup games today! With eight games on the schedule, two primetime matchups will air on ESPN. While Cup games are exciting, point differential matters! With Cup matchups continuing on Tuesdays and Fridays, it's one of the most competitive nights of the week. With that said, let's break down the NBA schedule and odds for Friday, November 22.

(Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images).

Current FanDuel odds and NBA slate for Friday, November 22:

The NBA Cup Games Are Electric

The Golden State Warriors (11-3, 6-2 away) will take on the struggling New Orleans Pelicans (4-12,3-5 home) on the road. If you're located on the West Coast or a night owl, there will be a late-night matchup between the Sacramento Kings (8-7, 4-3 away) and the Los Angeles Clippers (9-7, 6-4 home). With both matchups scheduled in West: Group C, the Warriors lead the standings 2-0. However, the Mavericks (1-1) lead the group with a massive point differential (+38). Out of all eight games today, each of the matchups are within their respective eastern and western cup groups.

In this article, I will provide a mix of spread and player prop bets for tonight. If you happened to tail my last article, we swept 4-0 following the Knicks vs Suns betting matchup. Utilizing both FanDuel and DraftKings Sportsbooks, I placed all of my bets as separate picks, with one unit minimum on each. As the bank roll continues to grow, that remains my overall goal. With an NBA betting record of 37-19, I am up nearly 5 units in November. Let's continue the hot streak, and cash out on my three best picks and bets for tonight.

Are you looking to bet on the NBA all season long with us? Here at Ballislife Bets, we've gathered a complete list of the best sports betting offers here. 

NBA Cup Best Bets For Friday, November 22

Spread Best Bet #1: Golden State Warriors vs New Orleans Pelicans

Warriors 2024-2025 ATS Record: 10-4
Pelicans  2024-2025 ATS Record: 4-12

• Warriors -10.5 (-110 FanDuel)

My first best bet of today, I placed one unit on the Golden State Warriors to cover the -10.5 favorable spread on the road vs the New Orleans Pelicans. I don't normally bet on large spreads during NBA Cup games, especially teams on the road. However, the Pelicans are riddled with injuries, and that's not an exaggeration. While injuries have headlined the NBA all season long, half of New Orleans roster is injured.

That includes CJ McCollum, Herb Jones, Dejounte Murray, Jose Alvarado, and Zion Williamson. When you think things couldn't get worse, Brandon Ingram, Yves Missi, and Jordan Hawkins are all listed as questionable for tonight's game. Even if those players are able to suit up, how can they fair against an elite Warriors squad?

With a 1-1 record with a -34 point differential in Group C, winning the NBA Cup will be a challenge for the Pelicans. Let's call it how it is, at less than full strength, the Pelicans are 4-12 on the season. Without their biggest stars, they remain one of the worst teams on both sides of the ball, allowing the 23rd most points per game (115.4). With as many injuries as they have, they remain the worst offensive team in the NBA with 103.5 points per game.

Trending in the wrong direction, the Pelicans are fresh off a three game losing skid to the Cavaliers, Mavericks, and Lakers. Although that's a tough three game stretch, they've suffered a +74 point differential over that span. With back to back 128-100 and 132-91 defeats vs the Cavaliers and Mavericks, I can't imagine how confident this team is.

The Pelicans Have Gotten Blown Out Of Games Repeatedly

Not to be the bearer of bad news, it doesn't get any easier for New Orleans tonight. With one of the deepest rosters in the NBA, the Warriors remain atop of the Western Conference at 11-3. Having one of the most potent offenses, the emergence of Buddy Field aside Steph Curry has been one of the biggest surprises among bettors.

Although Golden State lost De'Anthony Melton for the season with an ACL injury, the depth beyond and deep. Leading the cup division in wins, point differential is key. Given the Mavericks have a +30 differential over Golden State, tonight is the moment to gain ground. For that reason, I love the large spread pick.

Overall, the Pelicans have a -69 point differential, conceding by 34.5 average points over the last two outings. I'd like to think the Warriors are up to par with the Cavaliers and the Mavericks. With back-to-back 28 and 41 point losses, I do believe New Orleans should be larger underdogs. Take a look at the Celtics, who are 16 point favorites tonight vs the Wizards. Grab this line fast, I expect it to increase as the day goes on.

If you're betting on the Pelicans, they most likely have players on the roster most don't recognize. Without Ingram and Hawkins vs Cleveland, it was Antonio Reeves who led the way with 34 points. It's nothing against these players, however, can Elfrid Payton, Brandon Boston and Trey Murphy III hold up vs the Warriors starting five.

New Orleans Doesn't Have The Talent And Depth Amongst Injuries To Keep Up

With a young experienced roster, there's very little depth that can keep up with the Warriors.  In fact, I believe Golden State's top five bench players could cover straight up vs New Orleans. That's how confident I am in this pick.

1-9 straight up in the last ten matchups, the Pelicans are just 2-8 against the spread. If Ingram and Hawkins able to lace up, that may stop the bleeding. However, New Orleans hasn't proved they can cover many spread, including large ones. With a 3-8 ATS record as underdogs, New Orleans has failed to cover the +14, +13, +14.5, and +8.5 spreads vs the Cavs, Mavs, Thunder, and Magic. We know one aspect is certain, the Pelicans have a slim chance in covering the spread vs top teams.

0-3 ATS when underdogs by +10 or more, the Pelicans will now face the Warriors, who are coming off a 120-97 victory over the Hawks. Winners of four of the last five outings, Steph Curry doesn't have to carry Golden State on his back. With Andrew Wiggins vowing for a better season, we saw the forward record 27 points.

Final NBA Best Bet Pick and Prediction: Golden State Warriors -10.5 (-110 FanDuel)

Although I'm anticipating Steve Kerr may play his bench earlier than later, Golden State leads the NBA with 55 bench points per game. Overall, this is a classic best vs worst offensive and defensive matchup. Contrary to years past, Golden State ranks fourth in defensive rating (105.7), and fifth in offensive rating (115.9).

On the other side of the coin, the Pelicans offense is abysmal without half their roster. Ranking 27th in offensive rating (106.8), they rank second to last in defensive rating (119.2). With a 10-4 spread record, the Warriors are 6-2 ATS in road games, and 6-3 ATS as favorites. 1-0 when favored by 10 points or more, the Warriors have a nice cushion +10.4 point differential.

Overall, this is a high powered Warriors offense, who puts up a ton of points, and shoots a high clip from beyond the arc (38.7 %). Given the Pelicans are one of the worst teams around the perimeter (38.1 %), expect Golden State to shoot lights out tonight. The three-point line isn't the only issue, the Pelicans allow the second most paint points in the NBA (55). Unless the Warriors completely collapse, expect a double digit blow out tonight.

If you're tailing my best bets and picks for the NBA Cup games tonight, lay the points with the Warriors -10.5.

 Player Prop Best Bet #1: Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo 2024-2025 Season Stats

G: 14 | PPG: 32.1 | FG: 61 % | FT: 57.9 % | 3PT : 18.2 % | REB: 12.1 | AST: 6.1 | STL: 0.5 | BLK: 1.4

• Over 32.5 Points (-118 FanDuel)

My second best bet of today, I placed on unit on Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo to record over 32.5 points vs the Indiana Pacers tonight. Both teams underperforming with a 6-9 record on the season, Antetokounmpo once again is a bright spot for Milwaukee. Subject of several trade rumors, the Greek freak is as dominant as ever. This time, he gets the Pacers, where some of his brightest performances have come against. Since 2022, Antetokounmpo has put up a 50, 41, and 54 point performances. However, we can forget Antetokounmpo's career-high 64 points vs Indiana in December 2023.

Overall, I don't normally bet on big stars to score such high points. However, given it's a cup matchup, the Bucks look to tie the Pistons are 2-0, leading group B in the East with a +14 point differential. With Antetokounmpo anticipated to lace up tonight, the Pacers have several key members out of the lineup. That includes Andrew Nembhard, and Aaron Nesmith, who are pests on the defensive end. With Jarace Walker and Ben Sheppard listed as game time decisions, Antetokounmpo may just get his way tonight.

Leading the NBA with 32.1 points per game, Antetokounmpo is putting up career-highs in points! Putting together an MVP caliber season, Antetokounmpo has been consistent and dominant for the Bucks all season long. While we won't dwell on their season struggles, this is a strong pick for tonight, and here's why.

The Pacers Struggle To Contain Forwards

I'm certainly not expecting Giannis to get the points from the three-point line or charity stripe. However, there's not many players that can guard the forward, and that includes the Pacers. Sure, Pascal Siakam was an incredible pickup for the Pacers. On the downside, Siakam is not known for his high level of defense, ranking 298 in defensive rating (112.8). And we know Antetokounmpo has cooked Myles Turner on several occasions.

While the Bucks aren't the most dominant team in the paint, there's great news on the horizon for Giannis. Given the Pacers give up 7th most points in the paint (52.1), this is a prime matchup for the Greek native. With that said, the Pacers haven't been able to stop forwards, and that's a fact. Letting 10 straight forwards to soar over their points prop line, bettors have witnessed:

• RJ Barrett (39)
• Franz Wagner (29, 28)
• OG Anunoby (25)
• Brandon Miller (29)
• Zion Williamson (34)

all record over 29+ points. None of them comparing to Giannis physically, he has the green light tonight. Coming off a 41 point performance vs the Bulls, this line might be slightly inflated. Averaging 33 points in November and 35.8 minutes, I'm confident in this prop. Soaring over in two of the last four games, the Pacers allow the most points to forwards.

Final NBA Best Bet Pick and Prediction: Giannis Antetokounmpo Over 32.5 Points (-118 FanDuel)

Recording over 32.5 points in six outings this year, Giannis get's a home matchup, where he's averaged 36.1 points and 36.4 minutes. With the Cup in mind, Antetokounmpo absolutely dominated the Pacers last season. While their roster has largely remained the same, Giannis put up 42.2 points and 13 rebounds in five games vs Indiana last year.

One of my best picks for tonight, take Giannis Antetokounmpo OVER 32.5 points. 

 Player Prop Best Bet #2: De'Aaron Fox

De'Aaron Fox 2024-2025 Season Stats

G: 15 | PPG: 28.8 | FG: 50.6 % | FT: 83.8 % | 3PT :35.5  % | REB: 5.0 | AST: 5.7 | STL: 1.7 | BLK: 0.1

• Over 25.5 Points (-120 FanDuel)
• Over 1.5 Made Threes (-145 FanDuel)

My third best bet of tonight, I placed one unit on Kings guard De'Aaron Fox to record over 25.5 points and over 1.5 made threes vs the Clippers. While I thought these were strong plays, I played them separate. If you happen to have a boost, you can always parlay the two and sprinkle a smaller unit on this.

One of my favorite plays of the NBA Cup games, there's not nearly enough talk about Fox. Putting up a career-high 28.8 points per game, Fox ranks 6th in the NBA in scoring. Even with the addition of DeMar DeRozan, Fox has continued to stand out amid a ton of talent on the Kings.

While we've continued to see Fox's stats increase by the years, he's truly been playing out of his mind. Coming off a 28 point performance vs the Hawks, Fox recorded a franchise best and career-high vs the Timberwolves. Although Sacramento was without Malik Monk and DeRozan, Fox's 26 fourth quarter and overtime points were simply not enough. What I can tell you is that Fox drives and makes the improbable shots. Floaters, mid-range, three-point shots, Fox can do it all.

Aiming to stop the Clippers from gaining their sixth straight win, the Kings will once again be without shooting guard, Malik Monk. While Keon Ellis should get some minutes behind Monk, this is a monumental cup game for both squads. Both 0-1 in West Group A, both teams will look to catch the Rockets, Timberwolves, and Trail Blazers. In a must win scenario, I don't expect Fox to let up on the gas tonight.

De'Aaron Fox Is In The MVP Conversation

I do believe this is a strong pick for tonight, and here's why. Aside from his recent performances, Fox is averaging 31.5 points alone in November. Playing nearly 38 minutes a night for Mike Brown, Fox has recorded 26+ points in four straight games. After all, scoring 60 vs a solid Timberwolves defensive team is impressive. Not only that, but Fox's shot volume is higher than ever this season. Coming off 23, 30, and 35 attempts, 26+ points is doable, especially with heavy playing time.

We also have to consider how well Fox is shooting the rock. Shooting at a high clip (50.6 %) from the field, the guard is having another solid year beyong the arc (35.5 %). Shooting over 57 % from the field over the last four games, how do I fade this? Especially against a Clippers squad who allows the 22nd most points to guards. While 60 points may have boosted his average just a bit, I do believe 25.5 points is too low. Recently, LA has allowed guards:

• Steph Curry (26)
• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (45)

to fly away with the points.  Although the Clippers are a surprisingly the 6th best defensive team in the NBA. Not giving up a ton of points, Fox should have a decent matchup. That is vs James Harden, who's not particularly known for his defense.

Fox Has Been On A Heater

Averaging nearly 39 points in the last five outings, I'll back Fox, not only for the points, but for 2+ three-pointers. Simply clearing this line in three straight games, I'm not sure why this line is too low. Fox is ruthless, if you remember he stepped back for a wide open three vs the Timberwolves. With 12 trey balls in the last three matchups, Fox gets a Clippers team that allows the 17th most deep shots a game.

Banking in two trey balls vs the Clippers on November 8, Fox finished with 31 points on 12-20, and 2-5 from deep. While LA held Sacramento to just 98 points, Fox was by far the Kings lead in points, and shot attempts. With Monk, he should see a similar shot volume again.  Sure, the odds are a bit juiced, however:

• Jalen Suggs (2)
• Steph Curry (6)
• Collin Sexton (3)
• Dillon Brooks (5)
• Jalen Green (5)
• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (4)
• Immanuel Quickley (3)

are all guards who lit up up beyond the arc against LA.

My third best prediction of tonight, I'm betting on De'Aaron Fox to score Over 25.5 Points and to record 2+ three-pointers. 

Honorable mention player props for November 22

• Clint Capela Over 20.5 Points + Rebounds (-105 FanDuel)

Check out Ballislife Bets for more NBA picks and predictions for upcoming matchups.