We’re at the business end of the first round, so expect betting odds to give you big risks and rewards!
The Clippers, the Bulls and the Hawks will be coming into their respective games with their seasons on the line, so expect the remaining games of the first round to be hotly contested affairs that could be decided by the last possession in the fourth.
Los Angeles Clippers @ Utah Jazz (April 29, 10:30 GMT+8)
The Clippers haven’t repaired the Blake Griffin-sized hole in their offence, making free bets for them virtually unfeasible. The Jazz kept them off in front of the Staples Center crowd during Game 5. Sure, JJ Redick could take over Blake Griffin’s shooting numbers, but the absence of his irreplaceable defensive presence is definitely hurting Doc Rivers and Chris Paul.
The Jazz are now looking to kill this series in six as they head back to Salt Lake City. With the Utah machine in full swing, I find it hard to disagree with the odds. Betting for the Jazz with a -6.00 handicap promises a 1.99 reward.
Washington Wizards @ Atlanta Hawks (April 29, 07:30 GMT+8)
The Wizards barely managed to keep the Hawks away at home during Game 5, making Game 6 a difficult proposition for John Wall and company.
The Hawks comfortably won their last two games at home and managed to keep the highly efficient Wizards under 10 points for the majority of Game 5. Dennis Schroder and Paul Millsap will surely make life difficult for the Wizards in their home floor.
I personally think this series will go the distance to an exciting Game 7 in DC. Punters will surely be intrigued with Atlanta’s -3.50 Asian handicap for 2.01.
Boston Celtics @ Chicago Bulls (April 29, 08:00 GMT+8)
Probably the most unpredictable game of the three, the Celtics will try to send the Bulls out the back door with a daring win at the United Center.
The Celtics managed an impressive string of three consecutive double-digit wins thanks to Isaiah Thomas’ heroics. Celtics coach Brad Stevens commended his star guard for his stellar play despite the personal turmoil he is experiencing regarding his sister’s untimely demise.
The Bulls will try to force a Game 7 but they will need everyone on their roster to pull their weight and stop the Celtics. Dwyane Wade and Jimmy Butler need to lead from the front at the same time to divide the Celtics’ attention. With Rondo ruled out for Game 6, Jerian Grant, Michael Carter-Williams and Isaiah Canaan have to work double to contain Thomas.
Without a defensive anchor to really stop Thomas, I take the Celtics to advance to the next round. A -1.50 handicap for the C’s gives 1.88.
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Disclaimer: Odds are correct at time of publish.
