On Thursday, the NBA features a four-game lineup as part of the 2025-26 season schedule, with notable matchups including the Trail Blazers versus Pelicans, Clippers taking on the Rockets (with a -9.5 point spread), Celtics favored by -9.5 against the Bucks, and the Nuggets predicted to cover a -10.5 spread against the Kings. Boston aims to continue their six-game winning streak, while New Orleans looks to break a seven-game losing run. For bettors seeking the best NBA picks on Thursday, expert computer models from SportsLine provide detailed predictions and advice, backed by a track record of over $10,000 returns on $100 bets across top-rated NBA picks in the past eight seasons. New users can benefit from promotions like the Draft King promo code offering up to $200 in bonus bets and the FanDuel promo with $150 bonus bets on $5 wins.
The SportsLine model runs 10,000 simulations per game and currently boasts a strong 29-14 record for top-rated spread picks through Week 8 of the season. For Thursday, the model favors the Nuggets to cover the -10.5 spread against the Kings at 10 pm ET, highlighting Denver’s recent dominance over Sacramento, although both teams face key player absences. Nikola Jokic is projected to lead the Nuggets with 32.2 points, while DeMar DeRozan is expected to be the top scorer for the Kings at 17.4 points. Denver is favored in nearly 70% of simulated outcomes, signaling a decisive victory.
Additionally, the model offers two other strong picks for Thursday, collectively promising potential parlay payouts of +600 or higher. SportsLine is the exclusive source for these top NBA betting insights and predictions.
Fan Take: This update is crucial for basketball fans and bettors as it highlights the power of advanced analytics in making informed predictions, offering a glimpse into how data-driven strategies are reshaping the way fans engage with the sport. The projections not only boost betting excitement but also emphasize the importance of star players and team dynamics in determining game outcomes.

