We’re well and truly into the second round of the playoffs, with all but one series splitting their first games 1-1.
The BetDeluxe experts take an in-depth look at every game this weekend and table their best bets.
76ers vs. Celtics
6th May 9:30am
The Boston Celtics spoilt the return of 2023 MVP Joel Embiid when they drew level in the series with a 121-87 win over the Philadelphia 76ers.
After losing the home court advantage with a four-point Game 1 loss, the Celtics hit back via 25 points from Jaylen Brown and 23 from Malcolm Brogdon off the bench. After a groin issue in Game 1, Jayson Tatum managed just 19 minutes for seven points and seven rebounds.
Not long after being named MVP, Embiid recorded 15 points in his return but will be better for the run when the series heads to Philly. It was an angry Celtics who took to the floor in Game 2, making them $1.75 favourites in this one.
Suggested Bet: Celtics to win @ $1.75
Suns vs. Nuggets
6th May 12:00PM
The Suns and Nuggets series will head to Phoenix on Saturday, and not a moment too soon for Monty Williams and his men after going down to Denver by 18 and 10 in the first two games.
It was an improved effort from the Suns in Game 2 as Devin Booker dropped 35-5-6 alongside Kevin Durant’s 24 points and eight boards. Once again, they were left with too much to do as Deandre Ayton was the only other Sun in double figures with 14.
After scoring 24 and 19 in the opening match, Nikola Jokic continued his incredible form with a match-winning 39 points and 16 rebounds. The Suns have had no answer for the two-time MVP so far and must bring more of a defensive mindset on Saturday.
Suggested Bet: Suns (-3.5) @ $1.83
Heat vs. Knicks
7th May 5:30PM
This match-up has all the makings of a playoffs classic, with the New York Knicks hitting back against the Miami Heat with a six-point win on Wednesday.
Jalen Brunson led the charge for the home side with 30 points, while Julius Randle returned to the side and didn’t miss a beat with 25 points, 12 rebounds and eight assists.
The Heat were forced to do battle without Jimmy Butler as he sat it out with a sprained ankle. Caleb Martin dropped 22 points in his absence, but the Heat will be keen to have their superstar return to the line-up on home soil.
If Butler plays, which the Heat are confident he will, this is there for the taking.
Suggested Bet: Heat win @ $1.57
Lakers vs. Warriors
7th May 10:30PM
The battle of the champions commenced in spectacular fashion in San Francisco, with both sides recording a win from the opening two games.
After going down to an Anthony Davis masterclass in Game 1 (30 points and 23 rebounds), the Warriors returned to their winning ways with a dominant 27-point victory on the back of 84 points to 47 in Q2-Q3.
Importantly, they kept Anthony Davis to just 11 points while the entire Warriors outfit shot at 50% for the game and from beyond the arc.
If the Warriors can take their free-flowing, small ball to LA, they’re every chance to steal back a win on the road.
Suggested Bet: Lakers to win @ $1.69
