NBA Best Bets: Great Bonuses & Expert Picks for NBA Conference Finals
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Best NBA Bets Today, May 16, 2023:
- Over 222.5 points (-110) @ BetMGM Sportsbook
- LeBron James Under 22.5 points (-132) @ bet365 Sportsbook
The NBA Finals are set to commence on Tuesday night, featuring an exciting clash between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Denver Nuggets in the West, while in the East, the Boston Celtics will take on the Miami Heat. This matchup marks a historic moment in NBA history as both the Lakers, a No. 7 seed, and the Heat, an 8th seed, have made their way to the conference finals. This remarkable occurrence reflects the remarkable parity within the NBA landscape.
If you're an NBA enthusiast eager to engage in some early betting action, our team of experts has compiled a selection of FREE NBA best bets, along with in-depth analysis and expert predictions. These resources will empower you to make well-informed decisions before placing your wagers.
Before delving into the analysis, it's worth noting that there are several enticing betting bonuses up for grabs. By continuing to read, you'll discover how to claim these additional credits and identify which sportsbooks offer the best odds for tonight's NBA Playoffs.
NBA Best Bets Today: Los Angeles Lakers at Denver Nuggets - Over 222.5 points (-110 @ BetMGM Sportsbook)
- Date: Tuesday, May 16 | Time: 8:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Ball Arena -- Denver
- TV channel: ESPN |
- Over/Under Odds: O/U 222.5 (-110) @ BetMGM Sportsbook
Despite having A.D. and LeBron listed on the injury report with a foot ailment, the Los Angeles Lakers have consistently been listed as probable for numerous games and have not missed any playing time. It is highly unlikely that they will sit out or be significantly affected in Game 1. This bodes well for the Over bet.
The Lakers have a strong track record of surpassing the total points in their road games, with a 9-2 Over record in their past 11 away games. Moreover, they have maintained a solid 14-6 Over record in their past 20 overall games.
While the Denver Nuggets have seen the Under cash in 8 out of their last 11 home games, the Over has prevailed in 5 of the past 6 Conference Finals matchups and in 5 of the last 6 games when playing with 3 or more days of rest. These trends indicate a higher-scoring game.
In their previous encounters in Denver, the Over has hit in 6 out of the last 8 matchups between the Lakers and the Nuggets. Overall, in their past 44 head-to-head meetings, the Over has prevailed in an impressive 29-13-2 record.
Looking at the Lakers' recent series against the Warriors and the Nuggets' series against the Suns, most of the games went over the total points. This was also the case in their regular-season meetings, where three out of four matchups easily surpassed the set total. The only exception was a game back in late October when the Lakers scored only 99 points. However, since then, the Lakers have undergone changes, particularly after the trade deadline, making it reasonable to expect a different scoring outcome this time.
Taking all these factors into consideration, our prediction for the Lakers vs. Nuggets game leans towards the Over of 222.5 points, with -110 odds available at BetMGM Sportsbook.
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NBA Player Prop Bets: LeBron James Under 22.5 Points (-132 @ bet365 Sportsbook)
While it may not be the most enjoyable experience for Lakers fans, we believe that LeBron James will fall short of surpassing 26 points in Game 1. Despite being the NBA's All-Time leading scorer, there are several factors that support this prediction.
Firstly, the Los Angeles Lakers do not necessarily rely on James shouldering a massive scoring load to secure victory in this series. They have other capable scorers who can contribute significantly. Additionally, if there's a team that has the ability to contain the modern GOAT, it's the Denver Nuggets.
Throughout this postseason, James has been averaging just 23.4 points per game on 49.1 percent shooting. Furthermore, he has struggled to find his rhythm from beyond the arc, shooting only 26.3 percent from three-point range.
While there may not be a definitive "LeBron stopper" at this stage of his career, Denver's Aaron Gordon is a formidable defender who can hold his own against James on drives and isolation plays. His defensive efforts could result in a game where James fails to reach the 26-point mark.
Additionally, if Gordon and the rest of the Nuggets can effectively defend without committing fouls and limit James' opportunities at the free-throw line, the likelihood of James finishing Game 1 with fewer than 25.5 points increases.
How to Claim the Bet365 Bonus for the NBA Conference Finals Tonight:
Redeeming the Bet365 NHL bonus is a simple process. Follow these five steps to claim the offer:
- Sign up for an account and enter the Bet365 bonus code: GAMBLING.
- Fill out the registration form with the necessary details.
- Deposit a minimum of $10.
- Place a qualifying bet of at least $1.
- Receive $200 in bonus bets credited to your account.
Use BetMGM or bet365 NBA Bonus Codes and Unlock Great Bonus for Lakers vs. Nuggets Game 1:
The King of Sportsbook has done it again!!! With BetMGM Sportsbook you can always expect some great promos. For the Lakers vs. Nugget Game 1 tonight, you can unlock the great First Bet Offer up to $1,000 and place your NBA best bets before the first tip-off.
Furthermore, you can also sign up with Bet365 Sportsbook and claim an extra $200 in bonus bets that you can use to make some prop bets or explore other betting markets for the NBA Conference Finals, including the Lakers vs. Nuggets series.
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Get the Best Picks & Predictions for NBA Playoffs at Gambling.com
Looking for expert guidance on NBA picks? Look no further than Gambling.com! Our experienced team of experts is here to provide professional advice to help you make informed decisions. Whether you need help choosing your bets or want to stay up-to-date with the latest NBA news, we've got you covered. Take advantage of our NBA bonuses and start betting with confidence today!
FAQ
How do I get the First bet offer of up to $1,000 on BetMGM?
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Claiming BetMGM's first bet offer of up to $1,000 is quick and easy. Just visit the BetMGM website or download the app, click on "register," and enter the bonus code GAMBLINGCOM during the registration process. That's all it takes to unlock this great deal!
What is the Bet365 welcome offer?
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Take advantage of the exciting bet365 bonus offer for new members! Register today using bet365 bonus code GAMBLING and place a $1 bet to receive $200 in bonus bets. Redeeming your bonus bets is easy; simply place a qualifying bet of $1 or more on any event. Don't let this opportunity slip away - join now and start betting!
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Updated by
Admir Aljic
Last Updated:
