The NBA returns from its All-Star break Thursday night with teams rested and ready for one last playoff push over the final two months of the season.
The favorites in each conference are well established, with the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks leading the way in the East and the Denver Nuggets and Memphis Grizzlies separating themselves in the West.
But don’t be so sure the NBA Finals will feature two of those four teams. The Celtics were sixth in the East at last year’s break before making their push to the championship series.
This year, the West could have a similar scenario, with three teams that have played below their potential awaiting the return of injured superstars who could change their fortunes. These are the teams you should consider betting on before its too late.
Odds are from BetMGM
1
Phoenix Suns (+425)
Record: 32-28 (5th in Western Conference)
You aren’t getting as much bang for your buck on the Suns these days, because Kevin Durant moves the needle that much. But their odds still hold value as a distant second to the Celtics at +300. If this team gels the way people envision it can, they’ll have a very real shot to beat Boston or whoever else they could potentially face in the finals and throughout the playoffs.
Durant is targeting a return March 1, against the Charlotte Hornets, The Athletic’s Sham Charania reported.
Kevin Durant and the Phoenix Suns are targeting his Suns debut and return to action in next Wednesday's road game against the Charlotte Hornets, league sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Durant is on cusp of return from MCL sprain that he suffered on Jan. 8.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 22, 2023
2
Golden State Warriors (+1600)
Record: 29-29 (9th in Western Conference)
It’s crazy to think of the reigning world champions as a sleeper at this point, but they absolutely are. Five teams have better odds to win the Western Conference and eight teams have odds as good as or better than Golden State to win it all. But does anyone actually feel like they know what the Warriors are right now?
With Curry in and out the lineup, it’s hard to get a read on Golden State. He’s been an MVP candidate when he plays, though, so his return can elevate them to new heights. The Warriors said Wednesday he’s making progress and will be re-evaluated in a week.
Stephen Curry injury update: pic.twitter.com/5a8Euai9IX
— Warriors PR (@WarriorsPR) February 22, 2023
3
New Orleans Pelicans (+5000)
Record: 30-29 (7th in Western Conference)
After last year’s surprising playoff run and valiant effort against Phoenix, the Pelicans were one of the most hyped teams coming into this season. They haven’t exactly lived up to expectations, but they’ve also dealt with maybe the most injuries to their best players. So the fact they’re still hanging around is impressive.
Zion Williamson, who’s expected to miss at least a couple more weeks, told FTW the Pelicans will be ready to compete come playoff time. That, of course, comes with the big caveat of him being healthy. If they do have everyone available, the West might just be wide open enough for this talented and youthful roster to surprise people and make a little noise.
David Griffin says Zion Williamson re- aggravated his hamstring injury. He’s looking at missing multiple weeks post All-Star. Will be re-evaluated when they get back from ASG.
— Andrew Lopez (@_Andrew_Lopez) February 12, 2023
4
Not so honorable mention: Minnesota Timberwolves (+25000)
Record: 31-30 (8th in Western Conference)
OK, so I don’t actually believe in the Timberwolves at all, which is why they only get an honorable mention here. They might not make the playoffs, so I definitely wouldn’t bet money on them to win a title. But it’s hard to not at least bring them up considering they went to six games last year with the Grizzlies, a team people do believe in.
They’ve managed to hang around this year largely without Karl-Anthony Towns, who could be back in a couple weeks if what Charania reported on his timeline is accurate. But I’d have to see their twin tower situation work before I believe in it.
