The NBA started life as the Basketball Association in 1946. It then merged with the National Basketball League in 1949 to create the National Basketball Association (NBA). Since then it has risen in popularity and ultimately became the American institution that it is today.
The great thing about the NBA is that there is always something exciting happening, whether an underdog surprises or the top team develops a losing streak — not to mention all the drama that takes place among the players too.
All that only underscores the potential of sports betting — it adds a little extra thrill to each game, and even the offseason. But, if you’re going to place a bet based on these predictions or your own intuition, you must find a reputable sportsbook. Once you decide where you are going to place some bets, it’s time to actually place the wagers.
On that note, let’s make some NBA predictions for the 2019 calendar year:
Toronto Raptors will win the NBA Finals
This is not the wildest of predictions, the odds are currently set at 26-11. However, you need to consider the fact that the Warriors are starting to look unbeatable and the Raptors generally struggle in the playoffs.
Related: NBA Title Odds
A Duke player won’t be drafted No. 1 overall
There are several Duke freshmen dominating the headlines this season. R.J. Barrett and Zion Williamson spring to mind as players likely to go toward the top of the 2019 NBA Draft. But, Bol Bol (Oregon) offers the same qualities as these players and is over 7 feet tall. He’s the son of Manute Bol, a former NBA player, and he has more skill than his father. He can shoot, block and pass — however, he’s currently hurt. If he comes back healthy and performs, he may go early in the draft.
Brook Lopez will shine at All-Star weekend
Brook Lopez is likely to enter the three-point competition. Originally a back-to-the-basket center, he hit just three three-point shots in the first eight seasons of his career. The following two years, he made 134 and 116, respectively — it’s not often you see that kind of transformation.
Los Angeles Clippers will strike out in free agency
The Clippers are rumored to be pursuing a number of options this summer and it seems likely that some of the best free agents will be interested in continuing their careers with the Clippers. But, this doesn’t mean it will actually happen. Several of the top free agents, such as Leonard, may stay where they are or take a pay cut to join a winning team — potentially leaving the Clippers with nothing.
Related: Best Sportsbooks to Bet on the NBA
