Good morning, hoops fans! As dawn breaks on a brand-new NBA season, it's time for the inaugural edition of The Morning Dunk, your daily deep dive into the ever-evolving world of NBA betting.
With the 2023-24 season just about to tip off, we've got an exhilarating mix of storylines, trends, and insights to jump-start your betting strategies.
The Power Shift: Where the NBA Stands in 2023
Over the past few seasons, we've seen a seismic shift in the NBA's power rankings. Traditional powerhouses have had to make room for rising squads hungry for their moment in the spotlight. Will the Nuggets and Celtics continue their dominance? Or are old stars in new places set to shake up the establishment?
As bettors, staying ahead of these trends is paramount, and The Morning Dunk is here to keep you in the know.
Coaching Carousel
There's been a whirlwind of coaching changes this offseason. Some teams opted for experienced tacticians, like the Philadelphia 76ers and Nick Nurse, while others placed their faith in newer faces, such as Adrian Griffin and the Milwaukee Bucks, hoping for a fresh strategic approach.
History tells us that a change at the helm can significantly affect a team's performance, at least in the initial phase. As the season unfolds, winning or losing a bet can be as simple as identifying which teams are adapting well to their new coaches (and which are not).
Futures Market: Who's Hoisting the Larry O'Brien Trophy?
With the start of the season upon us, the futures market is buzzing with activity. Bettors are locking in their predictions for the 2023-24 NBA Championship. Teams that made significant off-season moves, like the Bucks and Suns, will be squads to watch as the season gets underway.
In fact, Giannis Antetokounmpo's brand new three-year contract extension will make the Bucks NBA championship contenders for most of this decade.
Milwaukee and Boston currently lead the way at +400 in the NBA Championship odds, followed by the reigning champion Denver Nuggets (+550) and Phoenix Suns (+650). Will parity reign supreme with a fifth straight different team lifting the Larry O'Brien trophy, or are the Nuggets destined to form their own dynasty?
Tip-Off Teaser: Opening Night Bets
The season's curtain-raiser features an electrifying face-off as the Los Angeles Lakers take on the defending champion Denver Nuggets. Check out our NBA opening-night odds here.
Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets are five-point favorites heading into Tuesday's Western Conference Final rematch. We're on the total in this one at UNDER 228, as Denver ranked 23rd in pace last season, while the Lakers will be in no hurry with a 38-year-old Lebron James pulling the strings. Should you prefer betting NBA player props, Lebron at 10+ assists sits at an enticing +550 on the oddsboard.
Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors battle the NBA's newest big three in the Association's subsequent opening-night matchup.
Unfortunately, both Bradley Beal and Devin Booker are listed as questionable for the Phoenix Suns. Should either of them miss Tuesday's contest, Kevin Durant will have the green light.
Durant will be motivated to punish his former team and should find more space with Draymond Green ruled out of the contest with an ankle sprain. Bet on KD 30+ points at +165 odds on NBA opening night.
Wemby Watch
As the 2023-24 NBA season tips off, The Morning Dunk will be right here with you, breaking down the trends, stats, and storylines that matter most.
Oh, and every incredible Victor Wembenyama highlight! Wemby's currently +340 to lead the league in blocks per game if you're looking for value to bet on the NBA's newest unicorn. The towering Frenchman is also worth a peek in the NBA Rookie of the Year odds, if you're into chalk, chalk, and more chalk.
Whether you're a grizzled vet going ring-chasing (yes, Tracy McGrady played for the Spurs), or just starting your NBA betting career, our insights are designed to guide you through the maze of NBA betting. Here's to a season of buzzer-beaters and betting brilliance!
