The 2023-24 NBA schedule is out, and there are scores of marquee games to keep an eye on. But opening night has its own unique shine, and that's why we've zeroed in on the first two games of the season.
This year's NBA season begins October 24 with a star-studded doubleheader.
NBA Opening Night Odds
Here are the NBA opening night odds.
Los Angeles Lakers vs Denver Nuggets
| Teams | Spread | Moneyline | OVER/UNDER |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Lakers | +5.0 (-110) | +170 | O 226.5 (-110) |
| Denver Nuggets | -5.0 (-110) | -200 | U 226.5 (-110) |
Pick: Nuggets -5.0 (-110)
Do you really expect me to pick against the defending NBA champions on opening night? The Nugs might not have as much depth this season, but they'll still have perennial MVP candidate Nikola Jokic, and that's enough to bury the Lakers.
A more damning stat: the Nuggets are 5-3 ATS in their last eight opening nights, while the Lakers are just 1-7 ATS during that span.
Phoenix Suns vs Golden State Warriors
| Teams | Spread | Moneyline | OVER/UNDER |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phoenix Suns | +1.5 (-110) | +105 | O 230.5 (-110) |
| Golden State Warriors | -1.5 (-110) | -125 | U 230.5 (-110) |
Pick: Warriors -1.5 (-110)
I'm fired up for the new-look Suns team. Adios Chris Paul; hello Bradley Beal. But look at the NBA stirring up some drama by pitting Paul and the Warriors against his former club. Funny how that works.
The idea of revenge-game Paul frightens me just a tad. And that's part of the reason why I'm leaning Dubs. As the spread suggests, this game should be real close, but I'll take Golden State -1.5
