Online NBA betting players have mixed feeling about the offseason. On one hand, it affords players the rest they need to bring their best game to the upcoming season. On the other, it offers zero professional basketball action. While Ice Cube’s Big 3 tries to bite off more than it can handle, sportsbook players will agree that the Big 3 pales in comparison to the NBA.
Nevertheless, while the offseason offers a rest for NBA players, it does the opposite for NBA bettors. It is important to stay up to date with the latest signings, trades and transactions. At any point, any transaction could change the scenery in either the East or the Western Conferences. Naturally, the odds will adjust and jumping on these at the right time is the difference between a bandwagon prediction and getting in on some massive winnings. With that in mind, here is your sportsbook guide to navigating the offseason.
Changing of the Times
Saturday, July 1st will mark the beginning of the NBA’s moratorium period, which allows teams to make agreements with players or other franchises, but does not allow them the right to actually sign anyone. This period will last until July 7th, when teams will be able to formally sign players. However, most of the madness will begin on Saturday.
Who to Watch
- Chris Paul has been the biggest name on the move to date. The superstar was traded to the Houston Rockets earlier this week. Rumor has it that the Rockets have their eye on another star, Paul George.
- Most sports betting sites are expecting the Clippers to part ways with Blake Griffin. Los Angeles could get some value out of Griffin, and no one has heard his opinion on Paul’s departure.
- Gordon Hayward will be on the move this offseason. Hayward declined his player option for 2018 Thursday, and has scheduled meetings with the Heat, Jazz and the Celtics.
- Technically, Steph Curry and Kevin Durant have both opted out of their player contracts with the Warriors. The consensus on the web however is that both superstars did it to take a pay cut in order to keep the champions unified.
- Paul Millsap isn’t getting as much coverage but is still a great acquisition. Atlanta and Denver are expected to make a move for the veteran.
- Danilo Gallinari is part of the class and is drawing interest from Denver and the Clippers.
- Kyle Lowry and Serge Ibaka are expected to re-sign with Toronto, but it wouldn’t be a bombshell to see both players walk.
What’s expected from the online NBA betting Contenders?
Celtics: After what happened in last year’s playoffs, Boston is expected to make a push for a big name star; either Hayward or even Griffin. They have plenty to bargain with, which leads many to believe that this is the team to watch this offseason.
Cavs: Cleveland is in a bit of a pickle. With no GM, and with LeBron likely becoming irritated with the franchise, the Cavs might not have too many options in front of them. Rumor has it that they are looking to buyout Dwayne Wade or possibly Carmelo Anthony.
Lakers: The Lakers are contenders simply because LaVar Ball says so. Nevertheless, Lonzo’s addition gives Los Angeles an extra bargaining chip this offseason and we’ll have to see if they can make any use of it.
Warriors: As aforementioned, the Warriors cast have no problems taking pay-cuts and they’ll likely look the same this upcoming season. Shaun Livingston and Andre Iguodala could depart from the team if the offer is sweet enough.
Knicks: New York is the furthest thing from a contender but Phil Jackson’s recent departure earns them a spot on this list. We’re not expecting much from New York this upcoming season, but it’ll be interesting to see what they do this offseason. Reportedly, they are interested in acquiring Jeff Teague.