Finally the NBA playoffs are here. And while the entire field is yet to be decided, there are a number of great selections for the opening road and outright picks. I have broken down my favorite 4 selections below. So without waiting any further, let’s jump right into them.
Division of NBA Championship Winner – Pacific Division (+450)
The only division to have every single one of their teams involved in the postseason is the Pacific Division. While the one of the Sacramento Kings or the Golden State Warriors will be eliminated early, there is enough talent in the division to cause any team in the league issues. If either LeBron James, Kawhi Leonard or Stephen Curry caught fire during these playoffs and took their team all the way, it would not be a huge surprise. The Clippers are dangerous. If they can navigate past the Mavericks and avoid injuries, they have the lineup that could cause major matchup issues for both conference favorites in the Denver Nuggets and Boston Celtics. With so many horses in the race, and with 3 former finals MVP's in the mix, this is a great value selection.
To Win Series – Milwaukee Bucks over Indiana Pacers (-110)
The Indiana Pacers won 4 of 5 games against the Milwaukee Bucks this regular season but it does not mean they will be able to win 4 more games here. Now that we are in the playoffs, experience could play a major factor, and the Bucks have that in abundance. There is talk that Giannis might miss some action due to a calf strain, but I do wonder how much of that is mind games at this point. Even if he does, the first 2 games are in Milwaukee. If they can come out on top in at least 1 and he returns, it could spell trouble for the Pacers. This is also when Damian Lillard normally comes to life. With Tyrese Haliburton seemingly taking a dip in form in both points and assists per game since the start of 2024, and uptick in production from Lillard could be enough to sway the series.