The NBA trade deadline is over and while some franchises are still exploring the buyout market to get some extra boost, the current lineup of teams is most likely what we’ll see in the remaining two months of basketball action.
While Houston and Atlanta swayed betting odds in their favour with their recent moves, the likes of New Orleans, Sacramento, Philadelphia and Dallas also strengthened their squads and made online betting even more exciting.
Charlotte Hornets @ Sacramento Kings (February 26, 06:00 GMT+8)
Sacramento are not expected to contend for a playoff spot, but their upset of Denver yesterday behind Willie Cauley-Stein’s big game showed otherwise. The departure of DeMarcus Cousins surprisingly gave the Kings a better balance, and if they can maintain their excellent form, the slumping Hornets might find themselves in trouble once again. With that said, Sacramento +2.50 for 2.03 should be a good bet.
Atlanta Hawks @ Orlando Magic (February 26, 08:00 GMT+8)
The Hawks were a little rusty as they got torched by the Heat in their first game after the break, but that shouldn’t worry them that much when they face a Magic squad building for the future. It should also help Atlanta that besides having Dennis Schroder back following a team suspension, they’ll be facing Orlando at the Amway Center where they have a solid record.
I don’t think this one will be close, so I’ll pick Atlanta -3.00 for 2.00.
Philadelphia 76ers @ New York Knicks (February 26, 08:30 GMT+8)
After taking down the third-placed Wizards, the Sixers should be overflowing with confidence when they visit the Knicks. Dario Saric and Robert Covington’s emergence have helped Philadelphia a lot in the absence of the injured Joel Embiid, and they should be able to lead and impress once more when they meet New York who aren’t playing well at home. Go for Philly +5.00 for 1.93.
Indiana Pacers @ Miami Heat (February 26, 09:00 GMT+8)
Paul George wants to be on a winning group, but he needs to have the winning mindset and the consistency to do so. George remains an erratic shooter, and it is a huge problem for Coach Nate McMillan if his best player on the court is plagued with inconsistencies. Hence, if this continues, they might not be able to keep up with the Heat who are motivated to clinch the last playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
If you’re willing to take a little risk, the Heat -5.00 for 2.04 is a punt worth considering.
New Orleans Pelicans @ Dallas Mavericks (February 26, 09:30 GMT+8)
Both teams got a frontcourt upgrade, but New Orleans seem to be in a better position with the acquisition of All-Star DeMarcus Cousins. Though it might still take some time before Cousins gel with Anthony Davis and the rest of the Pelicans’ crew, the difference in quality between the two is just massive. Not to mention that Deron Williams – who led Dallas in a losing effort against New Orleans last December – is no longer with them to run the floor. Choose the Pelicans +1.00 for 1.92.
Chicago Bulls @ Cleveland Cavaliers (February 26, 09:30 GMT+8)
The Bulls have already defeated the Cavs twice this season, and they are more than capable of repeating the same results with their star forward Jimmy Butler remaining in Chicago. It should also be good news for them that Cleveland failed to bolster their squad through trade and are still looking in the buyout market to improve their bench unit.
The hosts have a good advantage with the handicap, so Chicago +11.00 for 1.94 is the best choice.
Minnesota Timberwolves @ Houston Rockets (February 26, 10:00 GMT+8)
Obtaining Lou Williams from the Lakers could be graded as one, if not the best move in the trade. The Rockets now have two of the best sixth man in the league (the other one in Eric Gordon), making them a team even more lethal in the wing.
Karl-Anthony Towns could pose some challenge, but he should learn from Davis and the Pels who got ripped apart last Friday. Pick Houston -11.00 for 1.91.
Brooklyn Nets @ Golden State Warriors (February 26, 11:30 GMT+8)
The best in the league fighting the worst side is a recipe that would most certainly lead to a one-sided affair. The Warriors – led by Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant – should comfortably bag the W in this match as they are up against the Nets who have lost their last 15 games. Even the returning Jeremy Lin can’t do much to turn around Brooklyn’s fortune. Golden State -22.00 for 1.94 is an effortless punt.
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Disclaimer: Odds are correct at time of publish.
