NBA Wednesday is back with three big games that will shift the standings. BetDeluxe finds all the trends and form to give you the information you need.
76ers vs. Kings
14th December 11:00AM
After a rocky start, Philadelphia may be making its run, having won its past two games with James Harden back in the line-up and Joel Embiid firing on all cylinders.
Embiid posted a mammoth 53 points in his most recent game and presents a formidable force against a Kings team that has been impressive but may struggle against such a big-bodied presence.
Embiid added 12 rebounds to emphasise he can dominate in all aspects of the game and is the critical player in this match-up.
Sacramento will be sweating on the fitness of De’Aaron Fox, who has missed the past few games with an injury. They have a relatively deep roster which has been key to their current fifth position on the western conference standings. They have had some fantastic output from Domantas Sabonis and Malik Monk, among others.
This will be a good test for them, and while they are in with a chance, Philly at their best is challenging.
Suggested Bet: Philadelphia win at $1.46
Bucks vs. Warriors
14th December 11:30AM
This was the match-up that many predicted would be in the NBA Finals at the end of the year.
Two talent-laden teams have taken very different paths to get to this game. While the Warriors have vastly improved on their shambolic start to the season, they are still prone to inconsistency and have dropped some games they should have easily won.
Fresh off a comprehensive win over Boston, Golden State has a strong self-belief and the familiar shooting danger of Steph Curry and Klay Thompson. Throw in some strong rebounding performances from Kevon Looney and continual improvement from Jordan Poole; they are a team most are fearing.
The Bucks, however, play with no fear and will quickly put aside their shocking loss to Houston. Their concern, though, is the fitness of Khris Middleton, who left that game early with an injury and is unlikely to return. If he doesn’t, Milwaukee needs Giannis Antetokounmpo to bring his best to see off a plucky Golden State, but even that may not be enough.
Suggested Bet: Golden State win at $2.50
Lakers vs. Celtics
14th December 2:00PM
Basketball’s biggest rivalry is on stage here, with some fascinating storylines leading into this game.
Boston was a surprise loser against the Warriors, with a rare below-par game from Jayson Tatum. He’s allowed to have the odd off night and will be back to the form that has him installed as MVP favourite in no time.
For Boston, a Tatum off night converted into an on night for Jaylen Brown, who is more than comfortable stepping up to be the leading man.
The Lakers have had a slight return to form in recent times and will be comforted to see the traditional big numbers from LeBron James and Anthony Davis, who has been in a sensational patch of form lately.
Austin Reaves has become an unlikely third banana playing career-best basketball lately. It will be a hostile reception for Boston, but that is unlikely to faze them as they return to the winner’s list here.
Suggested Bet: Boston win at $1.60
