An exciting first two-thirds of the season has created some intriguing storylines in the Western Conference. Some excellent recent form has given Golden State the clear conference lead, with Denver and OKC close behind. The excellent form of James Harden has it tough to count out Houston, whilst LeBron has a similar effect in LA. Portland, Utah, and San Antonio all also loom as potential threats. Let’s take a look at the top 5 teams in Western Conference betting, providing our best bet in the process.
Golden State Warriors $1.30
After a few nervy stretches, the champs now find themselves with the best record in the West at 40-15. They have been particularly strong of late, winning 15 of their last 16 games. Stephen Curry has again led the way this season, averaging over 28 points, 5 boards, and 5 assists per game. Kevin Durant’s consistency has also been on full display, the veteran averaging 27 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists. Improved play from All-Star Klay Thompson has also been key to this recent run, whilst DeMarcus Cousins is enjoying very respectable averages of 15 points and 7 boards.
Houston Rockets $9
Despite a very mixed start to the season, some incredible recent play from James Harden has propelled Houston to 32-23 and the #5 seed out West. Harden has fought off injuries to Chris Paul and Clint Capela to average 36.6 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 7.8 assists. Kenneth Faried has also been a very solid mid-season acquisition, averaging 16 points and 10 boards a night. Given their play this season, I’m not sure Houston should be second favourite out West. They’ll struggle against OKC and have almost no shot against Golden State.
Los Angeles Lakers $9
Despite currently being the #10 seed out West, the Lakers are the third favourite to win the conference. Admittedly, they have looked rather solid when LeBron James is in the lineup. The 6-time Finals loser is averaging a solid 27 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per contest this season. Sophomore Kyle Kuzma has also been a revelation, averaging a shade under 19 points and 6 boards. After failing to agree to an Anthony Davis trade, I don’t see why LA are so highly favoured. Should they even make the playoffs, they’re likely to face a dominant Golden State side in Round 1.
Oklahoma City Thunder $11
Currently the 4th favourite in conference betting, OKC sits 3rd in the West at 36-19, 1 game behind the division rival Nuggets. Paul George has been simply outstanding this season, averaging a very respectable 28 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists. Russell Westbrook has also been as consistent as ever, averaging over 21 points, 11 boards, and 11 assists. At this point, they’d be my favourites to match up with Golden State in the Finals. Whilst I doubt they could win 4 of 7 against Golden State, they are still solid value at this price.
Denver Nuggets $17
The Nuggets have had a very underrated campaign so far and currently find themselves in 2nd place at 37-18. Center Nikola Jokic has been phenomenal all season, averaging 20 points, 10 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per night. Jamal Murray has also been excellent, averaging 18.6 points and 5 assists. Buoyed by an excellent 23-4 home record, Denver have every shot at the Conference Finals if they can maintain the #2 seed. Whilst Golden State and OKC are tough matchups for Denver, I’d still back them to make the Conference Semis.
Best Bet: Golden State $1.30
Whilst there are some cute storylines in this list, Golden State is far and away the best team here. The only way I can see someone else winning this is with a key injury or two. With the addition of Boogie Cousins, the Warriors look stronger and more well-rounded than they ever have. Combine their likely #1 seed with some excellent road play and they are still phenomenal value at $1.30.