N. Jovic 1.5 Ass Over Here, the odds clearly indicate that Jović is closer to the under at this line since the under is priced at 1.4, but I see value on the over and believe the chances for this bet are at least 50/50. Given that we’re looking at odds of 2.65, we definitely have to take it, and here are a few reasons why I think so. First, at this line in his last three games, he’s had 2 easy overs—4 assists against Brooklyn, and 5 against a tough, defensively strong Orlando team. In the last game against Atlanta, he finished with just 1 assist, but even there he had 4 potential assists, which is perfectly acceptable for this line and these odds. Over the last three games, he’s averaging 5 potential assists, which to me is enough to clear this line. His bigger role in organizing the offense coincided with Drew Smith’s injury (he tore his Achilles and is out for the season). Also, because Butler is out of the starting lineup, Jaquez stepped in—he can create, so in the second unit, the only players capable of creating are Rozier (who only looks to score) and Jović. For his height, Jović handles the ball very well and has excellent court vision. In the last three games, he’s averaged 24 minutes, and I hope he gets similar minutes tonight, but with Spoelstra, that can vary from 20 to 30 minutes depending on his assessment. Regarding Houston, they’re one of the better defensive teams in the league and allow the second-fewest assists to opposing teams, but I actually think that works in favor of this pick. They usually put a lot of pressure on primary ball handlers, so secondary creators often benefit, and Jović is one of those—something similar to Orlando, who’s #1 in fewest assists allowed, yet Jović still managed to pick up 5 and ended up leading the team in that department. I should also mention one game from last season, since they haven’t played Houston yet this season: Jović played 21 minutes against them and collected 6 assists, which was his highest assist total of the season. This year, he’s also had one game with 6 assists, against Charlotte. Clearly, Jović can surpass this line, and I’m hoping his teammates are in a good shooting mood. Good luck.