Best Bets
The Rockets have been waiting all season for the opportunity to take the Western Conference crown from Golden State. Since the addition of Kevin Durant to their line-up, the Warriors have gone on a 24-3 run in the postseason. With the addition of Chris Paul, the Rockets have the firepower to cause an upset in game one of the Western Conference Finals. The Rockets won four of their regular season games against the Warriors this season and I’m backing them to continue the trend in game one in front of their home fans.
The Knight Riders are still fighting for a place in the IPL Finals and remain in a fight for fourth place. Kolkata are in form with the bat having smashed 6/245 in their win over the Kings XI and will need to find a way to contain the Royals with the ball. The Royals remain in the hunt for a place in the finals after scoring a 7-wicket win over Mumbai in their last outing. The Royals have struggled to make an impact all season and the Knight Riders should be able to go on and score their second win in the competition against the Royals.
Best Outsiders
The Padres have won their last two games against the Cardinals but remain on the bottom of the NL West Standings. The Rockies were upstaged by the Brewers in their last game 7-3 and will be looking to bounce back against the Padres. The Rockies won their last two games against the Padres and they should be able to get the win on the road in San Diego
The Giants were able to break their rut in their last start against the Pirates and will be looking to repeat the effort against the Reds. The Reds have been in outstanding form and have won their last six games. Cincinnati were able to sweep the Dodgers for the first time since 1976 and they’ll be good enough to surprise the Giants in San Francisco.