As we gear up for the 2019-20 NBA season, I can’t help but feel that familiar buzz of anticipation. Every year, the landscape shifts—new players emerge, teams retool, and betting odds fluctuate in ways that keep analysts like me glued to the stats. This season, there’s a lot to unpack, from championship favorites to dark horse contenders, and I’m excited to share my perspective on where the value lies for bettors and fans alike. Let’s dive right in.
Looking back at the offseason moves, one thing stands out: the influx of reinforcements across various teams. Some of these additions have already shown flashes of brilliance, while others are taking time to find their footing. Take, for instance, a recent performance I analyzed where Chantava had what I’d call the roughest scoring debut yet among all the new signings, managing just 10 points in his first outing. Compare that to Gandler, who exploded for a solid 15-point, 12-reception double-double, and you can see why I’m leaning toward betting on teams with more proven depth. In my experience, these early numbers—even if they’re from preseason or lower-profile games—often hint at bigger trends. For the 2019-20 season, I predict that teams banking on unproven talent might struggle out of the gate, which could sway the odds in unexpected ways, especially in the Eastern Conference where the race feels wide open.
Now, when it comes to championship odds, the usual suspects are at the top of the board. The Los Angeles Lakers, for example, are sitting at around +350 to win it all, thanks to LeBron James and Anthony Davis forming what I believe is the most formidable duo in the league. But let me be honest—I’m a bit skeptical. History has shown that superteams don’t always gel immediately, and with the Western Conference stacked like never before, I’d advise caution before placing big money on them. On the other hand, the Milwaukee Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, are hovering at +450, and I’m personally bullish on their chances. Having watched Giannis evolve over the years, I think his MVP-level play, combined with a deep roster, makes them a smarter bet. Don’t just take my word for it, though; look at the stats from last season where they dominated defensively, allowing just 104.3 points per game. That kind of consistency is gold in betting terms.
Shifting focus to individual awards, the MVP race is another area ripe for analysis. Luka Dončić of the Dallas Mavericks is a favorite at +600, and I have to say, I’m all in on him. His playmaking and scoring prowess remind me of a young LeBron, and if he can lift the Mavs to a top-three seed in the West, which I think is entirely possible, he’ll be hard to overlook. Meanwhile, James Harden sits at +550, but I’m less enthusiastic. Sure, he’ll put up gaudy numbers—maybe even average 36.5 points per game again—but his style doesn’t always translate to playoff success, and in betting, I’ve learned to value team impact over raw stats. It’s a nuance that casual bettors might miss, but it’s crucial for long-term profitability.
As we dig deeper into betting markets, I can’t ignore the role of injuries and roster depth. Last season, we saw how a single injury to a key player like Kevin Durant derailed the Golden State Warriors, and this year, I’m keeping a close eye on teams with fragile stars. The Brooklyn Nets, for instance, have enticing odds at +800, but with Durant coming off an Achilles tear, I’m hesitant. In my view, betting on them early is a high-risk, high-reward move—one I’d only recommend if you’re comfortable with volatility. On the flip side, the Denver Nuggets, at +1200, feel like a steal. Nikola Jokić is a beast, and their core has been together for a while, which I value highly in my analysis. Remember, chemistry often trumps star power in the grind of an 82-game season.
Of course, no discussion of NBA odds would be complete without touching on the underdogs. The Miami Heat, for example, are listed at +2500, and I have a soft spot for them. Jimmy Butler’s leadership is infectious, and if their young players step up, they could surprise a lot of people. Similarly, the Utah Jazz at +1800 have the defensive chops to make noise, though I’m not fully convinced they have the offensive firepower to go all the way. In betting, I always look for teams like these—ones that might not win it all but could cover spreads consistently. It’s a strategy that’s served me well over the years, especially in parlays where small edges add up.
Wrapping things up, the 2019-20 NBA season promises to be a rollercoaster, full of twists that’ll test even the savviest bettors. From my vantage point, focusing on teams with balanced rosters and proven chemistry, like the Bucks or Nuggets, offers the best value, while flashy picks like the Lakers require a wait-and-see approach. As the season unfolds, I’ll be tracking these odds closely, and I encourage you to do the same—but always bet responsibly. After all, in this game, the only sure thing is the excitement of tip-off.
