Who else was shocked with the DeMarcus Cousins trade to New Orleans?
Online betting will undoubtedly take a huge swing after this week as it is unlikely that the Kings’ deal is the last high-profile move we’ll see before the trade deadline, especially when you consider that most contenders are looking to bolster their lineup and sway betting odds in their favour.
Sure enough, this Friday will be more than just the six exciting matches you can bet online on – some players might no longer be with their teams come game time!
Portland Trail Blazers @ Orlando Magic (February 24, 08:00 GMT+8)
Orlando are already discussing a deal to acquire Reggie Jackson – a point guard who they hope will restore order in their chaotic backcourt. Nonetheless, without a deal in place yet, that is a problem they need to address with what they have. Portland, though, will be difficult opponents with Damian Lillard raring to make us remember Game 6 and prove why he is a big All-Star snub (again).
I don’t think this will be close, so I’ll pick Portland -3.00 for 2.05.
Charlotte Hornets @ Detroit Pistons (February 24, 08:30 GMT+8)
By making two of their best players available to the highest bidders, the Pistons are showing that they are prepared to make changes in their lineup. They are barely hanging in the East playoff picture, so they would want to improve that record. Nevertheless, they won’t need to worry that much when they meet the Hornets who appear to be the ideal target after losing 11 of their last 12 matches.
Although their battle could also end up close, I believe the Pistons can pull through. Go for Detroit -4.00 for 1.88.
Houston Rockets @ New Orleans Pelicans (February 24, 09:00 GMT+8)
Facing the Rockets will be the perfect opportunity to test the new Twin Towers in the Big Easy. DeMarcus Cousins and Anthony Davis are unarguably the best NBA frontcourt pairing, and they will be a nightmare matchup for a team that is massively outclassed in the power forward and centre positions.
The good news for Houston, though, is the acquisition of Lou Williams who will further solidify their bench unit and already potent wing.
If you’re willing to take the risk, the Pels +3.00 for 2.02 is a punt worth considering.
New York Knicks @ Cleveland Cavaliers (February 24, 09:00 GMT+8)
The Carmelo-Anthony-for-Kevin-Love swap finally happened…in the All-Star game. However, that is all there is to it as New York seemed to fail in finding a trade partner for their disgruntled star.
Cleveland will certainly miss Love in their final battle with the Knicks this season, but the rest that LeBron James and Kyrie Irving had during the recent break should be enough to give them a winning start.
The Cavs just have too much advantage in this game, so Cleveland -10.00 for 1.96 should be a good bet.
Denver Nuggets @ Sacramento Kings (February 24, 11:30 GMT+8)
Sacramento’s surprising trade of their only star for a young prospect and draft picks is a signal that they are in rebuilding mode. Hence, they might also start tanking the season to increase their chance of getting a lottery pick in the loaded 2017 draft. With that said, the Kings aren’t expected to pose much of a challenge when Denver visit the Golden 1 Centre. Go for the Nuggets -6.00 for 1.82.
LA Clippers @ Golden State Warriors (February 24, 11:30 GMT+8)
Three blowout losses against the Warriors won’t do well for the confidence of the surging Clippers. The Clips have won four in a row – two against playoff-bound teams – but that doesn’t erase the fact that they need Chris Paul to go neck and neck with other top-tier teams like Golden State.
It shouldn’t also help LA that the Bay Area team is full of energy right now after having four All-Stars in last Monday’s festivity.
This one is another no-brainer. Choose Golden State -11.50 for 1.84.
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Disclaimer: Odds are correct at time of publish.
