The NBA season finally kicks off tonight with two great matchups with plenty of star studded talent. Check out the betting lines and breakdowns for each outing.
Philadelphia 76ers (0-0) @ Boston Celtics (0-0)
- Time/Venue: 8:00 PM, TD Garden
- TV: TNT
- Line: BOS -5
- Over/Under: 209
- Consensus: 60% BOS -5
- Over/Under Consensus: 66% O 209
- 2017 Against the Spread Record: PHI (52-38-2), BOS (62-37-2)
This rivalry between the Celtics and Sixers has become must-see television. The Celtics got the better of the Sixers in both the regular season going 3-1, then defeating them in a heated battle in the 2nd round of the playoffs. The Celtics are now getting back both All-Stars Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward. Philadelphia may have a lineup change by starting 2017 #1 overall pick Markelle Fultz, which sends J.J. Redick to the bench. Boston has showed they can defend Ben Simmons, but they have trouble dealing with Joel Embiid. On the other hand, Philadelphia could have matchup difficulties with the amount of talent that Boston possesses. Expect a lot of trash talking from Embiid and Marcus Smart, leading to a very gritty opening night matchup.
Oklahoma City Thunder (0-0) @ Golden State Warriors (0-0)
- Time/Venue: 10:30 PM, Oracle Arena
- TV: TNT
- Line: GS -12.5
- Over/Under: 224
- Consensus:Â 60% GS -11.5
- Over/Under Consensus: 64% O 224
- 2017 Against the Spread Record: OKC (37-50-1), GS (46-56-1)
With Russell Westbrook likely out for this game, the Warriors should be able to handle business. Oklahoma City will start Dennis Shoder in Westbrook’s place, and he’s already proving to be a fine offseason acquisition. The loss of Carmelo Anthony will benefit the Thunder in the long run, but without Westbrook tonight OKC may not have enough firepower to out play Golden State’s offense. DeMarcus Cousins still is without a timetable to return, but Golden State virtually has the same roster minus losing JaVale McGee in free agency to the Los Angeles Lakers.