NBA Halftime Report
Here is a look at betting trends in the NBA’s Western Conference as we approach the midway point in the season.
Western Conference
Best of the Best:
Los Angeles Lakers – Although the Lakers have the best overall record in the Western Conference, it’s clear the oddsmakers were determined to not give away free money on them. Thus, they are just 16-19 against the spread despite being 29-6 straight up. Even so, don’t fall asleep on this team in the second half of the season. Phil Jackson-coached teams historically peak late in the season, as he spends much of the early going using a deep bench and slowly cultivating his team’s chemistry. Don’t be surprised of a big run ATS is in store.
Denver Nuggets – Trading Allen Iverson for Chauncey Billups is one of the best moves this franchise has made in its recent history. The Nuggets removed one ball-thirsty superstar – they had one too many – and replaced him with a championship-tested veteran who knows how to run a team. Expect more good things from this club, which boasts a 22-16 record against the spread thus far.
Utah Jazz – It’s amazing that the Jazz have managed a 21-16 ATS mark to go along with their 22-15 overall record considering the rash of injuries they have battled to stars Carlos Boozer and Deron Williams. Once they transition the return of Boozer, the upstart could be a dangerous team, especially down the stretch.
Keep an eye on:
Portland Trail Blazers – Brandon Roy has proven to be the superstar the Blazers (22-14 overall, 16-19 ATS) have been lacking in recent years, and he’s the player most likely to help them return to the realm of legitimate contenders. But the Blazers need more overall consistency, particularly at home, to be taken seriously. They are worth
New Orleans Hornets -- The Hornets have had a bit of sophomore slump, so to speak, following their breakout season last year. But MVP candidate Chris Paul and forward David West form one of the league’s best duos, and New Orleans has quietly climbed to a respectable 22-11 record. Although the Hornets are just 14-17-2 ATS thus far, look for a big improvement in the second half.
San Antonio Spurs – Every time it looks tempting to write off this aging and battle-tested team, the Spurs (24-11, 17-17-1 ATS) go on a run of wins that proves they still deserve our respect. So long as they have Gregg Popovich, one of the few NBA coaches who can command respect, on the sideline and Tim Duncan on the court, this team will give you a solid return on your money.
Take a pass:
Phoenix Suns – The addition of Shaquille O’Neal seemed to add an element of dysfunction to this team, and the Suns evidently haven’t taken to new coach Terry Porter, either. They often look as though they can’t decide whether they are an up-tempo or half-court team, and the results speak for themselves. The Suns have suffered several embarrassing home losses, and their 13-20 ATS mark is a good indicator to stay away.
Houston Rockets – The Rockets are an injury waiting to happen, and they never fail to deliver. Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming have to be the most fragile tandem in league history, and it seems the Rockets are always without at least one of them. Even when healthy, the Rockets are erratic, a hallmark of Rick Adelman’s teams, and despite flashes of greatness, they appear destined to disappoint their backers.
Golden State Warriors –By far the league’s biggest disappointment this season, coach Don Nelson’s team has redefined the “Ole!” in matador defense, giving up an astounding 106 points per game. Although they will pull the occasional upset when they get hot, your money is better off not guessing when this rare occurrence is going to materialize.
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