Pick #1: Mikal Bridges over 18.5 points(-105)

With his enthusiasm, motivation and a favorable matchup, I'm betting on Mikal Bridges to score over 18.5 points tonight.

Mikal Bridges has been on a hot scoring streak lately, averaging 23.2 points in his last five games and 22.8 points in his last ten. He's scored over eighteen and a half points in seven consecutive games and is trending up. In his first game with the Nets, Bridges scored twenty-three points. This season, he's been averaging 17.3 points per game, with 17.3 points at home and 17.3 points on the road. He's achieved more than 18.5 points in 24 games this year, making it a likely outcome for tonight.

What's more, Bridges has something to prove. After being traded from the Suns to the Nets, he's eager to show what he can do in this new role. His ambition and determination should help him achieve his goals tonight. You could tell he was angry he was traded and I think he proves tonight that was a bad move. 

Bridges has 23 games this year with 15+ FGAs. In those 23 games he's only gone under this line 5 times, with 2 losing on the hook. He shot 18 times in his first game with the nets. Tonight and the rest of the season expect a similar if not bigger workload. 

Finally, the Knicks have allowed the sixth most points to opposing small forwards this season, giving Bridges an even bigger chance to score. With the odds in his favor and his recent success in mind, I believe he will exceed the 18.5 point mark tonight.

Given all of these factors, I'm betting on Bridges to score over 18.5 points tonight. His enthusiasm, motivation and favorable matchup make him a prime candidate to have a great night.