Thunder Favoured Over Bucks as Lakers, Blazers Target Key Wins in Friday NBA Slate

Posted : 13 February 2026

Friday night’s NBA schedule features three compelling matchups, with playoff implications and betting value shaping the narrative across the board. From an interconference showdown in Oklahoma City to a Western battle in Utah and a marquee clash in Dallas, each contest presents distinct tactical angles for bettors.

The Milwaukee Bucks travel to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in what would ordinarily be a high-profile clash. However, both teams are dealing with significant absences. Milwaukee remain without Giannis Antetokounmpo, limiting their interior dominance and transition threat.

Oklahoma City are also missing Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, placing added offensive responsibility on Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren.

Despite that setback, the Thunder’s depth, structured defense, and strong home performances this season give them a measurable edge. Oklahoma City’s ability to dictate tempo and rely on a more consistent supporting cast makes them favourites to secure a straight-up victory. From a betting standpoint, the Thunder moneyline and a lean toward the under appear logical given the defensive focus and missing star power.

In Salt Lake City, the Portland Trail Blazers meet the Utah Jazz in a matchup that could influence Western Conference positioning. Portland enter in solid form, having won four of their last five games, with Jrue Holiday providing steady scoring output and Donovan Clingan offering a strong rebounding presence inside.

Utah, meanwhile, continue to navigate roster adjustments and lack consistent depth, particularly in the frontcourt. If Portland control the boards and limit second-chance opportunities, they should be able to manage the pace and grind out a result. The Blazers hold the advantage on paper, making their moneyline attractive, while the total leans toward the under in what may develop into a half-court battle.

The late-night spotlight shifts to Texas as the Los Angeles Lakers take on the Dallas Mavericks. Los Angeles come into the game refreshed and have performed reliably when installed as favourites, leaning on veteran leadership and depth around LeBron James.

Dallas are still adapting to roster changes and absences, which have affected scoring balance and secondary playmaking. If the Mavericks struggle to generate consistent offensive rhythm, the Lakers’ interior defense and bench contributions could prove decisive.

Los Angeles are positioned to control the contest early, making the spread a viable option, while the over holds appeal if the Lakers succeed in pushing the pace and exploiting mismatches.

Thunder Favoured Over Bucks as Lakers, Blazers Target Key Wins in Friday NBA Slate

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