LeBron James and James Harden are this year’s frontrunners for the MVP honour, and they are ready to show the reason for that when they continue their playoff runs this week.
Harden and the Rockets are through to the West semi-finals and will face online betting underdogs Utah Jazz. Meanwhile, LeBron and his Cavs are set to play a do-or-die Game 7 against Indiana Pacers who have surprised betting odds with their performance this series.
Indeed, with how things are shaping up, the Monday playoffs slate is something sports betting fans can’t afford to miss!
Western Conference Semi-finals Game 1
Utah Jazz @ Houston Rockets (April 30, 03:30 GMT+8)
This game is a battle of contrasting philosophies: Houston and their high-octane offence versus Utah and their top-of-the-line defence.
The Jazz’s defence was no match for the Rockets’ three-happy attack during the regular season, with Mike D’Antoni’s team sweeping the season series. In fact, Harden averaged 34 points in their four meetings this year.
However, the Jazz have transformed into a different beast in the playoffs — something which the Oklahoma City Thunder learned the hard way.
Utah played with a faster pace in the playoffs and unleashed Donovan Mitchell who is undoubtedly a superstar in the making. While the Rockets have the better offence behind the trident of Harden, Chris Paul and Clint Capela, they will have to be cautious of the threat the Jazz brings.
Fortunately for Houston, Utah will be shorthanded when they meet after Jazz starting point guard Ricky Rubio picked up a hamstring injury.
Harden and Houston would likely want to make a statement here, so betting on the Rockets -10.50 @ 1.81 seems the best move to make.
Eastern Conference First Round Game 7
Indiana Pacers @ Cleveland Cavaliers (April 30, 01:00 GMT+8)
LeBron has never lost in the first round of the NBA Playoffs. That’s the only stat you need to know heading into this crucial Game 7.
The King is no longer the same player he once was, and the effects of the proverbial switch might be fading. Not to mention that his current Cavaliers team is probably the worst he ever had in his career.
However, it shouldn’t be forgotten that LeBron James has been in situations like this before, and he delivered countless times for his team. Most recently is the 2016 NBA Finals when LeBron helped Cleveland force a Game 7 and win the title after going down 3-1 against the Golden State Warriors.
Victor Oladipo is a legitimate All-Star, surprising everyone by doing what Paul George wasn’t able to do for Indiana. Nonetheless, it remains to be seen if he can deliver under such immense pressure.
With all these considered, Cleveland -5.50 @ 1.92 is the way to go for me.
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Disclaimer: Odds are correct at time of publish.
