Some of the biggest names in basketball are set to take the court this Friday. BetDeluxe analyses the form of eight teams ahead of a big day in the NBA.
Nets vs. mavericks
28th OCTOBER 10:30AM
It’s too early to say there are warning signs with Dallas, but there might be some question marks at 1-2 after a whole week of games. All was set for the Mavericks to defeat a depleted New Orleans on Wednesday, but they fell just two points short.
The slow starts have been a feature of the Mavericks’ year so far, and they cannot afford a repeat against a talented, if at times unpredictable, Brooklyn side.
Luka Doncic continues to shorten as the favourite to take out the MVP, and he did his chances no harm with 37 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists against the Pelicans. Still, he needs support from his teammates, notably Christian Wood, who may have to step up to more court time.
The Nets also sit 1-2 and could have defeated Memphis last week but for some late foul trouble for Ben Simmons.
Simmons isn’t quite at his best but is at least showing tenacity. Once he gets a few things to click in his game, he can properly form the triumvirate with fellow stars Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving and could take Brooklyn deep. A win here would be a significant first step towards that.
Suggested Bet: Brooklyn +1.5 at $1.95
Thunder vs. LA Clippers
28th October 11:00AM
These two teams meet for the second time this season, with the Clippers keen to atone for their surprising early loss.
The Thunder will have a different-looking team, with Australian star Josh Giddey set to be sidelined for some time due to injury. Combine that with their go-to man Shai Gilgeous-Alexander battling a hip complaint, and OKC looks decimated.
The Clippers don’t have a clean bill of health, with Kawhi Leonard already ruled out with a knee injury after missing the first game against the Thunder. Paul George also missed the clash but is on track to return for the return bout.
But the Clippers seem to have the depth to cover Leonard partially. John Wall is providing plenty at both ends of the court and is proving to be a valuable acquisition and brings a new element. Expect him to play a big role in an LA win.
Suggested Bet: Clippers to win at $1.34
Heat vs. Warriors
28th October 1:00pm
The Warriors had an off night against Phoenix on Wednesday, with Steph Curry starting slowly, Klay Thompson being ejected and a heavy loss. They have proven themselves to be the most resilient team in the competition and should bounce back with ease. Expect another big game from Andrew Wiggins, who seems more comfortable at the level after a couple of seasons on the Warriors roster.
They are up against a vulnerable Miami team who are still trying to figure their team out. The frustrations boiled over in a physical altercation against Toronto, and the Heat need to get their year on track.
Jimmy Butler has had some extended bench time so far this season, but it will be a crucial factor if they are to provide any challenge here.
Suggested Bet: Warriors to win at $1.33
Kings vs. Grizzlies
28th October 1:00PM
After some pre-season buzz about potentially being one of the league’s most improved teams, it’s been a disappointing start for the Kings who sit winless after three games. Granted the most recent of their three losses was against the Warriors but the concerns are still there. De’Aron Fox is one exception, with a hot start to the season while Kevin Hunter and Keegan Muray settle in to their new roles.
It’s a tough match up for the Kings against a fired up Memphis team that has just defeated Brooklyn. Ja Morant continues his elevation into an elite NBA player while Desmond Bane has been a more than capable support act and veteran Steven Adams has been cleaning up the boards as he has done his whole career. Expect the Grizzlies to get it done here.
Suggested Bet: Same game multi
Leg 1: Grizzlies -3.5
Leg 2: Total score over 236.5
Total: $3.60
