With training camp officially beginning on Tuesday, the NBA season is just three weeks away and it's a great time to learn how to bet on NBA futures. There are a plethora of teams that could be in contention for a title, but the Pacific Division could potentially have three championship teams: The Phoenix Suns (+215), defending champ Golden State Warriors (+200), and the Los Angeles Clippers (+200). Yes, the Lakers (+750) are likely going to bounce back in 2022-23, but they're not expected to be in the Finals conversation. Keep reading for the Pacific Division picks.
Before we get into the odds, preview, and early pick, make sure to check out our tips for betting on NBA games.
NBA Pacific Division Odds
Odds | |
---|---|
Golden State Warriors | +200 |
Los Angeles Clippers | +200 |
Phoenix Suns | +215 |
Los Angeles Lakers | +750 |
Sacramento Kings | +15000 |
The Suns have won this division in back-to-back seasons, while the Lakers won in 2019-20, the same year they end up taking home the Larry O'Brien in Orlando. From 2014-2019 though, the Warriors won the Pacific Division.
Golden State Warriors (+200)
It would be unfair to not mention the champions first. Steve Kerr's squad captured their fourth title in the last seven years in June, taking down the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals. Unfortunately for the rest of the league, the Warriors have brought back basically their entire same team. Steph Curry, Draymond Green, Klay Thompson, Andrew Wiggins, and Jordan Poole, among others, all remain. The notable losses are Gary Payton II and Otto Porter. Although they could be in the Finals mix again, Golden State will have their work cut out for them in the Pacific Division picks. The Suns and Clippers are no joke.
Los Angeles Clippers (+200)
When Charles Barkley and Kendrick Perkins pick you as a championship favorite, you're doing something right. The Clippers were disappointingly knocked out of the play-in tournament earlier this year, but their roster is looking extremely scary with some key players coming back from injury. Kawhi Leonard is the standout name and he's put on some serious muscle. He returns to form a dominant partnership with Paul George and we've seen what that duo is capable of in past years. The supporting cast is also very impressive, consisting of Norman Powell, John Wall, Luke Kennard, Reggie Jackson, and Nic Batum. The big addition could prove to be Wall, a former All-Star who is getting a fresh start in Los Angeles. It's unlikely he starts, but the ex-Kentucky standout may just be the star of the second unit for Ty Lue. If this group can stay healthy, they're undoubtedly going to be a possible Pacific Division winner.
Phoenix Suns (+215)
The Suns weren't just the best team in terms of record in this division across the last two campaigns, they were one of the top squads in the entire Association. Many believed Phoenix would be one of the last organizations standing in the playoffs, but unfortunately, Monty Williams' group was upset by the Dallas Mavericks in the second round. After re-signing Deandre Ayton, the Suns bring back their core of Devin Booker, Chris Paul, and the big man Ayton, who continues to improve. The Indiana Pacers almost lured him away, but Phoenix matched their offer sheet. On both ends of the floor, this is still a very good team, even with Jae Crowder on his way out. Booker is a budding superstar and CP3 is still the Point God. They're definitely a threat to the Dubs and Clippers in the Pacific Division picks.
Los Angeles Lakers (+750)
Laker Nation is just praying that 2022-23 is a different story. After all, Los Angeles did miss out on the play-in and playoffs altogether last season, despite LeBron James enjoying a historic season for a 37-year-old. Russell Westbrook struggled to co-exist alongside The King and Anthony Davis, although the latter barely played due to injuries. The Lakers didn't make a ton of notable moves this summer, bringing in several average players. The only positive is they were all younger guys, which is definitely going to help them defensively. Remember, the roster was extremely old a year ago. Also, the hiring of new head coach Darvin Ham is expected to make a difference. LA also traded for Patrick Beverley recently and signed Dennis Schroder again. Pat Bev is an absolute dog who gives 110% every time he steps on the floor and is the type of player LeBron will absolutely love. If Bron and AD stay healthy and Russ can find a way to be his former self, I give the Lakers a chance to make the playoffs as a top-six seed. But, realistically, the Clippers, Suns, and Warriors are likely to be above them in the division.
Final Pick
This is one of the most talented divisions in the league. I'm all aboard the Clippers train, though. It's honestly their time to finally be a serious contender. Their roster is just fantastic and full of hard-nosed, gritty players who are hungry to win. Take LA here.
Pick: Los Angeles Clippers to win Pacific Division
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