This year’s All-Star starters and reserves have already been selected, and sports betting fans will have a chance to take a look at some of them this Thursday in the NBA‘s nine-game slate.
While the Twin Towers of the Big Easy and The Process of Philadelphia try to dominate and impress the online gambling community, expect the likes of James Harden, DeMar DeRozan, Damian Lillard, Victor Oladipo and Kyrie Irving to light up the scoreboard as well and delight live betting.
New Orleans Pelicans @ Charlotte Hornets (January 25, 08:00 GMT+8)
With trade rumours surrounding Kemba Walker and reports about his strained relationship with the Hornets, it’s hard to see them winning this game against the Pelicans. New Orleans are growing increasingly confident day by day and will be difficult to beat with Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins keeping their top-six offence flowing. Pick the Pelicans +1.50 @ 2.03.
Utah Jazz @ Detroit Pistons (January 25, 08:00 GMT+8)
Both teams are struggling defensively, so it will be interesting to see how this game will play out. Utah, however, appears to have the edge offensively with rookie sensation Donovan Mitchell averaging 19 points a game and Rudy Gobert returning to his old dominant self. Betting on the Jazz +2.00 @ 1.95 is a move worth considering.
Phoenix Suns @ Indiana Pacers (January 25, 08:00 GMT+8)
The Suns have shown tremendous progress when it comes to three-point shooting, which made their offence somewhat deadlier. Nonetheless, with consistency still an issue, they can’t hope to get their revenge against the Pacers that blew them out by 23 points ten days ago. Expect another double-digit win for the Pacers and bet on -8.00 @ 2.03.
Chicago Bulls @ Philadelphia 76ers (January 25, 08:00 GMT+8)
Although Philadelphia lost to Chicago last month, they will still fancy their chances in this game. Besides Joel Embiid proving he is a legitimate All-Star, the Sixers also have the advantage of playing at home against the Bulls that have won just seven times on the road this season. If you’re punting, Philly -5.50 @ 1.99 seem the best choice.
Toronto Raptors @ Atlanta Hawks (January 25, 08:30 GMT+8)
Atlanta are improving, thanks to Dennis Schroder who has been pivotal in their wins against the Spurs, Pelicans and Jazz. Despite that, however, taking down Toronto remains a tall order. After all, the Raps have beaten the Hawks twice with an average lead of 23.5 points.
Even though I expect this one to end closer than their previous meetings, it shouldn’t be hard for Toronto to beat a -6.50 handicap that pays at 2.03.
Houston Rockets @ Dallas Mavericks (January 25, 09:00 GMT+8)
This one might be a “rivalry” by name, but the difference in quality between the two teams is night and day. Houston are second in the West and are coming off a win against the Warriors, while Dallas are second to the last in the conference and have only one win in four. With that said, choosing Houston -6.00 @ 1.95 is a no-brainer.
San Antonio Spurs @ Memphis Grizzlies (January 25, 09:00 GMT+8)
While the Grizzlies are far from playoff contention, they have shown plenty of grit this past month. The Grizz have been excellent offensively since Christmas, which should prove beneficial when they play a Spurs team that lacks firepower. Memphis have to be cautious of San Antonio’s top-five defence though.
Minnesota Timberwolves @ Portland Trail Blazers (January 25, 11:00 GMT+8)
After getting snubbed in the All-Star for two straight years, Damian Lillard is back to the annual festivities. He will now look to prove that him being part of the West’s elite wasn’t a mistake when they play the surging Timberwolves.
Luckily for the Blazers, Jimmy Buckets, who dropped 37 and 24 in their first two meetings, is doubtful to play.
Boston Celtics @ LA Clippers (January 25, 11:30 GMT+8)
Four straight losses and the Boston Celtics remain in strugglesville.
Kyrie Irving and Co. have another shot at ending their slump against the injury-riddled Clippers. Nevertheless, they have to be cautious of Lou Williams who will be determined to show everyone why he’s the biggest All-Star snub of 2018.
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Disclaimer: Odds are correct at time of publish.
