UPDATE: As the NBA season approaches, experts are weighing in on early betting odds for the highly anticipated opening night and Christmas Day games. With the schedule set for October 21, fans and bettors alike are eager to place their wagers.
Experts at ESPN BET have spotlighted key matchups that could shake up the betting landscape. Among the most intriguing bets is the showdown between the Lakers and Warriors, where the Lakers are favored at -155. Betting analyst Andre Snellings believes the Lakers are primed for a significant leap this season, stating, “LeBron and the newly invigorated Luka are expected to lead the charge against the Warriors.”
The Lakers aim to capitalize on the momentum gained from last season’s struggles, which were impacted by injuries to both LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Snellings predicts a strong performance from the Lakers on opening night, setting the stage for a thrilling contest.
Eric Moody also highlights the Rockets as a potential upset team on opening night against the defending champs, the Thunder. The Rockets, currently at +200, are facing off against a team celebrating its championship ring ceremony, a moment that can often distract players. With new star Kevin Durant joining forces with young talents like Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson, Moody expects Houston to challenge Oklahoma City effectively.
As for the Christmas Day games, Moody declares the Spurs +9.5 against the Thunder as a strong bet. San Antonio’s roster, featuring rising star Victor Wembanyama, is set to take on the champions. With a blend of depth, youth, and an exciting matchup against Chet Holmgren, the Spurs are positioned to give the Thunder a run for their money, making them a worthy pick to cover the spread.
In another notable matchup, Snellings questions the line for the Cavaliers +3.5 at the Knicks. Despite sweeping the Knicks last season and boasting an average victory margin of 17 points, the Cavaliers are still seen as underdogs. This intriguing line presents an opportunity for bettors as both teams return largely intact for another showdown.
With the NBA season just around the corner, these early betting insights are creating buzz among fans and bettors alike. As the opening night nears, keep an eye on these matchups and the potential for unexpected outcomes.
Stay tuned for more updates as the NBA season unfolds and betting lines evolve!
