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- A Look at the Odds on the Eve of the NBA Playoffs
A Look at the Odds on the Eve of the NBA Playoffs
April 16, 2018
It’s seems like just a short while ago that the NBA season
got underway, but we now find ourselves – just about – on the verge of
the playoffs. At time of writing, 15 of 16 teams have booked their
place in the NBA’s postseason, with that 16th team going to be either
the Minnesota Timberwolves or Denver Nuggets.
In light of the playoffs getting underway on 14th April, it might
interest a few observers to take a look at some of the contenders and,
crucially, what the bookmakers say about their chances. It will use the
latest odds from UK bookmaker Betfred. If you want a free shot on
basketball, check out the latest Betfred free bet.
Golden State Warriors, 5/4
Everyone who knows about basketball, knows just how good this side is,
but have GSW been a little bit complacent this season? An injury to
Stephen Curry should also concern Warriors fans.
Houston Rockets, 6/4
Many neutrals think the Rockets, led by leading MVP candidate James
Harden, should be favourites ahead of GSW. Regardless, they have been
the standout side in NBA so far this season.
Cleveland Cavaliers, 8/1
Why are they third-favourites despite trailing the Raptors and Celtics
by a considerable margin in the Eastern Conference? A simple answer:
Lebron James.
Toronto Raptors, 8/1
A solid season all round for Toronto, who look easily the most
all-round candidate in the Eastern Conference. They have actually a
better record than GSW, which is something to consider when placing a
bet.
Philadelphia 76ers, 25/1
If you are looking a hot team to upset the odds, Philadelphia may be
your best bet. They are currently on a 14-game winning streak that has
propelled them to a 50-win season for the first time in nearly two
decades. They should be feared.
Oklahoma City Thunder, 33/1
The good news is that they have made the playoffs, which would have been slightly embarrassing for a team with the likes of Carmelo Anthony and Paul George in its ranks. The bad news is that it looks like they will come up against GSW in the playoffs.
Portland Trailblazers, 40/1
The foot has been taken off the gas somewhat since Portland booked its spot in the playoffs. Still, they look a solid outfit.
Boston Celtics, 50/1
If you are wondering why the team with the fourth best record in NBA
has such high odds. The answer is that franchise star Kyrie Irving will
miss the playoffs through injury.
San Antonio Spurs, 66/1
The best defence in NBA is not backed up by a powerful offense. It
would be a huge shock to see the Spurs make a lasting impact on the
playoffs.
Indiana Pacers, 100/1
Indiana just about come in above average in all metrics used for
basketball. That will not be enough to see them go late into the
postseason.
The other outsiders:
You can find Miami Heat, Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards and Milwaukee
Bucks all at odds of 100/1 at the moment. Minnesota Timberwolves and
Denver Nuggets, both of whom will be vying for that final place in the
postseason are priced at 150/1 and 200/1 respectively. New Orleans
Pelicans are also at the bottom of the odds at 200/1.
